Cyber 101 is an intensive one-day workshop for cyber startups.

SETsquared Exeter hosts national programme to boost cyber security sector

Earlier this month, SETsquared Exeter welcomed the Digital Catapult to Exeter Science Park Centre for an intensive one-day workshop for cyber startups. The region is developing a reputation for cyber security with a growing number of cyber security business and networks, including the South West Cyber Security Cluster.

This was the first time that the Cyber 101 programme had come to the South West, having previously only been held in Edinburgh and London. The national programme seeks to grow the UK’s cyber security sector and the capability of cyber security SMEs. Participants receive expert tutoring and support to foster relationships with new customers and partners. 

Eight businesses from a range of small and medium-sized cyber security companies attended the programme which focused on those keen on receiving mentorship, raising capital and accessing a wider network of public and private customers.

Attendees received tailored advice on a diverse range of topics linked to establishing and growing a successful cyber security business from value proposition to raising investment and everything in between.  

Independent cyber security compliance company, Securious, currently based at the Science Park Centre attended the programme. Pete Woodward, Co-Founder remarked on the experience: “We know how fantastic the Cyber 101 Bootcamp is. Therefore, it was a delight not only to welcome such an acclaimed national programme to the South West, but also to be one of the participants. Our business is now establishing itself as the go to Cyber Security company in the South West, but we really took value from being forced back to basics and consider what we were able to provide our customers. We would like to keep involved in future stages of the programme including Deep Dive and Annual Demos Days.”

Cyber 101 is a national programme running from January 2017 – March 2021 as part of DCMS funded activity to grow the UK’s cyber security sector and the capability of cyber security SMEs. This programme is linked to the Develop strand of UK Government’s National Cyber Security Strategy, a series of activities that will be supported by £1.9bn public investment over the next five years.

Date: 26 March 2019