The Funded Cyber Essentials Programme: Enhancing Cybersecurity for Vulnerable Sectors

What is the Funded Cyber Essentials Programme?

Small organisations across specific sectors in the UK are being invited to participate in the Funded Cyber Essentials Programme, an initiative aimed at bolstering cybersecurity measures in vulnerable industries.

While all modern businesses face threats from cyber attacks, certain organisations are at a heightened risk due to the sensitive nature of the information they handle or their perceived vulnerability to cyber criminals. Recognising this, the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is launching the Funded Cyber Essentials Programme to provide targeted support for these at-risk organisations. As an Cyber Essentials certification body Meta Defence Labs is please to announce that we will be delivering some of these projects.

This programme offers assistance in implementing essential security controls designed to prevent the most common types of cyber attacks, helping to safeguard sensitive data and maintain business integrity. And the best news is that its FREE!

How Does It Work?

The programme provides practical support from an NCSC Certified Cyber Advisor like myself to help organisations achieve Cyber Essentials Plus certification at no cost. However, it’s important to note that this support does not cover the cost of any additional software or hardware required to meet the certification standards within the business.

Qualifying organisations will receive approximately 20 hours of remote consultancy from NCSC Assured Solutions Providers such as Meta Defence Labs Ltd . This support focuses on:

• Identifying and implementing security improvements tailored to the organisation’s size and needs.
• Assisting in the implementation of the five Cyber Essentials technical controls.
• Conducting a hands-on technical verification to ensure these controls are effectively in place.

In cases where achieving Cyber Essentials Plus certification is not feasible, the Cyber Advisor will help the organisation implement as many technical controls as possible and provide a clear list of additional actions required for compliance. This structured approach is designed to guide organisations through the necessary steps to achieve Cyber Essentials certification, followed by the audit for Cyber Essentials Plus. Notably, no prior cybersecurity certification or experience is necessary to participate in the programme. Both CE and CE PLUS certification fees are included in this package.

Who is Eligible for Support?

To qualify for this scheme, companies must be micro or small businesses (1 to 49 employees) registered in the UK, and engaged in one of the following areas:

• Development of fundamental Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
• Innovative application of AI technologies in public safety and health, defence, and security sectors.
• Development of novel Quantum technologies.
• Design, development, or manufacturing of semiconductors or semiconductor IP blocks.
• Development of Engineering Biology or Synthetic Biology.

Additionally, eligible organisations must meet the following criteria:

• Have not previously participated in the NCSC Funded Cyber Essentials Programme.
• Do not currently hold Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) certification, have not been awarded CE+ certification since January 2023, and are not currently in the process of applying for CE+ certification.

Apply Now

There is only a limited number of funding packages available. If your organisation meets the above criteria and you are interested in applying for the Funded Cyber Essentials Programme, please get in touch ([email protected] | 0203 2224060). This programme is a valuable opportunity to enhance your cybersecurity posture and protect your organisation against prevalent cyber threats.

By participating in the Funded Cyber Essentials Programme, your organisation can gain critical support to implement essential cybersecurity measures, ensuring you are well-equipped to defend against potential cyber attacks. Don't miss this chance to secure your business and contribute to a safer digital landscape.

Press release: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/information/funded-cyber-essentials-programme?