The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has this week launched a funding opportunity for cyber security initiatives across England and Northern Ireland.

This funding is available to support local projects which seek to either increase the quality, quantity and/or diversity of practitioners entering the cyber workforce, or to support the growth, innovation, and/or strength of cyber ecosystems across the country.

Delivered by Innovate UK, applications for the scheme are now open and will see grants of between £25,000 and £150,000 awarded to winning applicants by March 2025.

How to apply

For organisations who would like to apply for funding, you will first need to submit an expression of interest for consideration by your region’s Cyber Local Steering Group before September 27. Once your application has been considered and endorsed by the Steering Group you will be able to submit a full application for funding to DSIT's partners Innovate UK, which must be completed by October 9.

For more information on this funding opportunity, how to apply, and all the relevant dates, contact details and supporting information please visit the competition page.

Innovate UK will also be holding a briefing event on September 19 which will expand on the application process and criteria for the programme. You can register for this event here.

Reporting

Report all Fraud and Cybercrime to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or online. Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. Report SMS scams by forwarding the original message to 7726 (spells SPAM on the keypad).