New cyber security programme ‘groundbreaking’

Firms are urged to apply for a groundbreaking nine-month cyber startup scheme. The initiative, which will be an integral part of developing UK cyber security capability, is the second programme in the GCHQ Cyber Accelerator. It is being extended from three to nine months. The expanded programme will allow startups more time with word-class personnel and technological expertise of staff from across GHCQ, including the National Cyber Security Centre, enabling them to expand their capability, improve their ideas, and invent cutting-edge products. The selected startups will receive benefits to help them scale all aspects of their businesses, including office space, mentoring and contact with an extensive investor network. It will help new firms to turn their ideas into commercial products and/or services and contribute to the UK cyber sector which has soared from £17.6 billion in 2014 to £22 billion in 2015. The programme will be delivered by Wayra UK, part of Telefónica, and is a collaboration between the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), GCHQ and the NCSC. Matt Hancock, Minister for Digital, said: “We are working hard to make Britain the best place to start and grow a digital business and the safest place to be online. “The GCHQ Cyber Accelerator is a vital part of this work and has already helped some of the most innovative cyber security startups develop cutting-edge new products and services. I’m pleased to announce the programme is being extended and encourage the nation’s talented entrepreneurs to apply.”