The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has launched the third year of its Fully Funded Cyber Essentials Programme, offering a valuable opportunity for small businesses across the UK. This initiative provides eligible organisations with the support they need to achieve Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certifications at no cost.
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme designed to help UK organisations implement essential cybersecurity controls, protecting them from common cyber threats. The funded programme is an excellent chance for small businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity posture without the financial burden typically associated with certification.
What Does the Funded Programme Include?
Eligible organisations that participate in the funded programme will receive:
- Up to 20 Hours of Hands-On Cyber Advisor Support [See blog here]
This comprehensive support is provided by a certified Cyber Advisor who will work closely with your organisation to identify and implement improvements tailored to your size and needs. The advisor will guide you through the process of meeting the five key technical controls required for Cyber Essentials certification:- Firewalls
- Secure Settings
- Access Controls
- Malware Protection
- Software Updates
- Free Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus Certification Attempts
Not only do you get hands-on support, but the programme also covers the cost of the certification attempts. If achieving full certification is not immediately possible, the Cyber Advisor will provide a clear and actionable plan to help your organisation reach compliance.
Who is Eligible for Funding?
To qualify for the Fully Funded Cyber Essentials Programme, your organisation must:
- Be a micro or small business (1 to 49 employees) registered in the UK.
- Be involved in one of the following sectors:
- The development of fundamental Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
- The innovative application of AI technologies in Public Safety and Health, Defence, or Security.
- The development of novel Quantum technologies.
- The design, development, or manufacturing of semiconductors / semiconductor IP blocks.
- The development of Engineering Biology or Synthetic Biology.
In addition to these sector-specific criteria, your organisation must also:
- Not have participated in the NCSC Funded Cyber Essentials Programme before.
- Not currently hold Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) certification and not have been awarded CE+ certification since January 2023.
- Not be in the process of applying for CE+ certification.
How Can Evolve North Help?
At Evolve North, we are well-equipped to support both the Support and Certification elements of the funded programme. As a Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certification body and an NCSC Assured Service Partner for the Cyber Advisor Scheme, we have the experience and expertise to guide your business through the entire process.
Our Cyber Advisors have extensive experience with Cyber Essentials and have successfully helped many organisations achieve certification through the funded programme. We provide clear and actionable advice tailored to your business needs, ensuring you have the best possible chance of achieving Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus.
At Evolve North, our services focus on Governance, Compliance, and Assurance. As we are not an IT Service Provider, our advice is entirely vendor-neutral and always prioritises your organisation’s best interests.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re interested in applying for Cyber Essentials but are unsure where to begin, contact us today. Our team is ready to discuss your eligibility and how we can help you take full advantage of this funded programme.
You can learn more about the funded scheme and apply for funding directly on the IASME website here. If you plan to apply and would like Evolve North to support you, be sure to mention us in the “How did you hear about the Funded Cyber Essentials Programme?” section.
Let Evolve North help you strengthen your cybersecurity and achieve certification, positioning your business for a more secure future.
Reach out on 01748 905 002 or email info@evolvenorth.com