Starting in April 2019, the Cyber programme is aimed at founders and leadership teams and will be Tech Nation's first nationwide scaleup programme for startups in cyber security.
The 6-month, non-residential programme will expose those taking part to scaleup expertise and provide them with the knowledge and connections required to effectively grow their businesses in domestic and global markets. As part of the programme, the successful startups will also take part in a showcase trip organised in conjunction with the Department of International Trade.
“This is both an important and exciting time for the UK digital security industry.” commented Gerard Grech, CEO of Tech Nation. “The UK is an acknowledged leader in cyber security and many successful businesses - large and small - are headquartered here. But it can be a challenging marketplace for young businesses that are seeking to expand.
“In the security field there are specific challenges to scaling, for instance startups will often be targeting corporate buyers and building trust and credibility can sometimes seem like an impossible task. Equally, partnerships with other providers can play a key role in the growth story. So regardless of the quality of the product, a company’s ability to grow will often depend on industry knowledge and connections”
Key elements of Tech Nation’s Cyber programme include a series of four masterclasses - each taking a deep dive into core businesses issues - and multiple networking sessions designed to foster peer-to-peer learning. In addition, those joining the first cohort will have direct access to scaleup experts who will address important issues such as creating and maintaining culture; hiring and nurturing talent; developing leadership skills; raising capital; and international expansion.
Participants will also have opportunities to network externally with potential customers, partners and investors. This side of the programme is facilitated through three “cohort trips,” including one visit to a foreign market, co-organised by the Department for International Trade.
“What we have put together is a programme that will help businesses on the cohort move up to the next level,” said Ollie Bone, Cyber Lead at Tech Nation. “Making the transition from startup to scaleup requires founders and managers to develop new and often challenging personal and business skills. But scaling up also involves reaching out and making connections across the security industry itself and in the customer marketplace. What we’re offering in Cyber is a real opportunity to overcome the factors that might be putting a brake on growth.”
A cross industry judging panel will select the 20 most promising cyber companies across the country for the programme. Applications are now open and close on 4th March. Successful participants will be notified in late March. Apply here: https://technation.io/programmes/cyber-security/.
