A panel of senior executives working within the tech and security sectors will assist in the selection of the 20 most promising cyber companies within the UK as part of an ambitious project designed to help build and grow business in domestic and global markets.
Tech Nation, a UK network of digital tech entrepreneurs, has launched the initiative ‘Cyber’, starting in April, with a six-month, non-residential programme exposing those that take part to expertise along with providing connections required to grow their businesses.
The judging panel include Robert Coles, Chief Information Security Officer at NHS; Dr Emma Philpott, CEO at The IASME Consortium; Talal Rajab, head of programme for techUK’s Cyber and National Security programmes; Alastair Paterson, CEO and co-founder of Digital Shadows and James Chappell co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Digital Shadows.
UK Government data had revealed that there are currently more than 80 cyber security businesses with UK headquarters, with SMEs making up 89% of the total.
With cyber attacks on the rise within the UK and the rapid development of the Internet of Things creating new vulnerabilities at the interface between digital and physical systems, the Cyber programme aims to boost the UK’s digital security sector by helping grow 20 startup companies.
“What we have put together is a programme that will help businesses on the cohort move up to the next level,” said Ollie Bone, Cyber Lead at Tech Nation.
“Making the transition from startup to scaleup requires founders and managers to develop new and often challenging personal and business skills. But scaling up also involves reaching out and making connections across the security industry itself and in the customer marketplace. What we’re offering in Cyber is a real opportunity to overcome the factors that might be putting a brake on growth.”
Digital Minister Margot James said: “To stay ahead of cyber threats it is crucial we support and promote our world-class cyber security industry. Tech Nation’s new programme will not only help young businesses to expand but ensure our thriving cyber sector continues to grow.”
