Strengthening Local Business Resilience and Bridging the Cyber Skills Gap
The North East Business Resilience Centre (NEBRC) is thrilled to announce the successful completion of its project, “Strengthening the Local Business Community Resilience to Cyber Incidents and Reducing the Regional Cyber Skills Gap” made possible through funding from Innovate UK part of UK Research and Innovation within the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
The initiative aimed to enhance cyber security measures for local businesses while fostering the next generation of cyber professionals. Key achievements of the project include:
- Onboarding Over 150 New Companies – These businesses have joined NEBRC’s free core membership, gaining access to free, essential cyber security resources and support. We had an initial target of 150 businesses but we are so pleased to have absolutely smashed this with 198 new members and counting joining us from the region.
- Cyber Essentials Certification for Micro Businesses – In partnership with our Cyber Essentials Partners at Aindale KTD, CyberShelter and Data Connect, 10 local micro businesses have now achieved the Cyber Essentials Certification, enhancing their security posture.
- 20 Configuration Reviews Completed – These in-depth assessments evaluated the security settings of organisations’ software, systems, and networks, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.
- Hosted Cyber Careers Labs in Scarborough and Wakefield – To address the regional cyber skills gap, NEBRC hosted two Cyber Careers Labs, inspiring students and community members to explore career opportunities in cyber security.
NEBRC CEO and Retired Police Superintendent Rebecca Chapman says:
“We are incredibly proud of the impact this project has made in supporting Yorkshire businesses to strengthen their cyber resilience.”
“By equipping organisations with essential cyber security tools and inspiring future talent, we are building a safer digital community for everyone in the region.”
Jamie Robson, Professional Services and Cyber Security Manager for Aindale KTD and NEBRC Cyber Expert commented:
“The opportunity to help smaller businesses improve their resilience against cyber-crime, alongside the NEBRC, was an offer we couldn’t refuse. By making sure local businesses have fundamental security measures in place, we can protect not only them, but their customers too – and by extension, members of our community.”
Lois Inman, Director of Data Connect explained:
“We’re committed to supporting local businesses and the NEBRC and are delighted with the success of this initiative. It’s great to see more businesses seeing the true value of Cyber Essentials, bolstering their defences and having confidence in their security.” For more information about NEBRC’s ongoing initiatives and how to get involved, visit https://www.nebrcentre.co.uk