CyberNorth launches second innovation centre

A North East-based cyber security initiative is set to accelerate innovation and support early-stage businesses with a second fully-funded programme following new government backing.

CyberNorth, a cyber security cluster in the North East that is made up of over 90 cyber security businesses and accounts for over 2000 cyber professionals, has secured funding from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to launch Cyber Security Innovation Centre #2. 

Building on the success of its initial pilot, the programme will provide vital support for entrepreneurs and start-ups in the cyber security sector, helping to “further unleash the potential” in the North East.

Running throughout February and March, the programme will deliver six full-day incubator-style workshops covering topics such as product development, customer engagement, funding and company growth. 

Designed for early-stage or pre-start-up businesses, it aims to help participants refine concepts, scale operations, and bring innovative ideas to market.

Phil Jackman, director of CyberNorth, said: “We are delighted to have secured further funding from DSIT. 

“We were thrilled with the outcomes of our initial Innovation Centre pilot, which acted as a catalyst of support for aspiring cyber security innovators and businesses. 

“Those in the new Innovation Centre #2 accelerator programme cohort can be in education, employment or otherwise, just as long as the business idea relates to cyber security, and they want help either getting it off the ground or finding out whether it’s viable. 

“It’s a great way to investigate and invigorate business ideas as it’s a completely free resource and commitment is only a day a week for six weeks.”

Connor Greig, chief executive officer and co-founder of Sunderland-based OneClickComply, who was on the initial innovation centre pilot with CyberNorth, added: “Building a cyber company is both a unique and lonely experience. 

“Being part of the CyberNorth Innovation Centre was instrumental in building connections, insight and experience with other leaders in the industry and led to real articulable outcomes for us at OneClickComply.

“We were able to get investment advice, found our accountants through the programme, met investors and ultimately refined our business and product.”

CyberNorth, one of 18 UK cyber clusters supporting the UK Cyber Strategy, is committed to advancing the North East as a hub for cyber security excellence. The funding brings it closer to establishing an Innovation Zone - a network of hotspots where innovators and business support unite to drive growth.

The initiative is also part of UKC3’s Northern Cyber Clusters Collaboration project, which aims to foster connections between cyber security players across Northern England, increasing visibility and opportunities within the sector.

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