The UK Government’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is working with Microsoft for its 2021 Cyber Accelerator programme, which aims to encourage start-ups to support UK cybersecurity efforts by developing new products, skills and jobs. 

Microsoft will provide access to its own Accelerator alumni network and subject matter experts across cybersecurity and cloud, and give eligible start-ups access to technology including the Azure cloud platform and GitHub Enterprise.

This is the seventh programme in the NCSC’s Accelerator series and will run from January to March 2021. It will focus on smart cities and the cyber risks associated with: solutions that use data at scale and are viable in a smart city; tools capable of identifying non-traditional devices such as the internet of things; and manufacturing and robotics systems. The NCSC is also looking for solutions to help shape guidance for smart technologies interfacing with the Critical National Infrastructure.

“The UK has a long history of innovation in cybersecurity with its roots in the ground-breaking work done at Bletchley Park,” said Chris Perkins, general manager of UK public sector at Microsoft. “But the level of threat we face today is significant and growing. It’s why it’s critical we partner with the NCSC and the Cyber Accelerator programme to support the next wave of talent protecting British individuals, businesses and organisations.”

“Good cybersecurity is the bedrock of our digital economy and will help power our post-pandemic recovery,” said Matt Warman, UK minister for digital infrastructure. “It gives people the confidence to shop, work and play online and makes business resilient against cybercrime.”

The NCSC’s 10-week programme is now open for applications. 

Share this story