Government-backed cyber security pre-start up programme launches
Cyber London and the Centre for Secure Information Technologies invite applications for joint programme to encourage entrepreneurship in cyber security
Cyber London (CyLon) and the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) today launched HutZero, a cyber security early stage accelerator programme which will be run jointly by the two organisations following a competitive tender. HutZero is now accepting applications from individuals who want to turn their ideas into successful cyber businesses. Twenty candidates will be selected to join HutZero’s first cohort in September 2016.
HutZero is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) as part of the Government’s National Cyber Security Programme, which aims to protect the UK in cyber space and promote growth and innovation in the UK cyber security industry. The accelerator programme will consist of two stages, starting with a week-long bootcamp held at CyLon’s London premises, and an autumn follow-up event. Participation is cost-free, as HutZero will cover successful applicants’ expenses.
HutZero aims to give participants the skills and network required to take the next step in starting their business. The programme’s two stages will be bridged by mentoring and advice from HutZero’s network of cyber security and business experts. The bootcamp will cover subjects including technical development and business fundamentals, with lectures conducted by noted cyber security practitioners and start-up gurus. Participants will benefit from one-to-one mentoring with individuals from a range of sectors, including academia, industry, government and the investment community. They will also benefit from co-working in a dynamic environment with likeminded innovators and potential co-founders.
“The Government is committed to investing in the UK's cyber security industry so I'm pleased we're supporting HutZero, a unique programme for talented individuals wanting to start a cyber security company in the UK. Working with Cyber London and CSIT who are developing this initiative, I hope HutZero will attract the most inquisitive minds from academia, industry, Government and further afield. This programme will help make sure we support the next generation of innovative UK cyber security companies”, said Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey.
“Public awareness of cyber threats and vulnerabilities is increasing fast. In parallel, a wealth of innovative cyber security solutions is being developed in response to the needs and opportunities arising in the sector. With analysts* forecasting that European businesses will spend over $35 billion on cyber security by 2019, the potential returns for successful cyber entrepreneurs are huge”, said Jonathan Luff, co-founder of Cyber London. “Cyber security is a highly-skilled field in which startups need specialist expertise and guidance to succeed. HutZero will offer this support.”
“The requirement for cyber security solutions and services is growing, but the industry doesn’t see the level of innovation that other areas of technology have benefited from in recent years”, said Dr. Godfrey Gaston, Director, the Centre for Secure Information Technologies. “At the moment, accelerator programmes tend to be generic and are focused on teams of people with fully fledged business ideas. There’s a mass of people out there with ideas, but nowhere to take them. This programme provides the first step.”
About HutZero
HutZero is a two stage, six month early stage accelerator programme that will help to transform early stage ideas into viable propositions and potential new businesses. Run by Cyber London and CSIT, HutZero will support individuals interested in starting their own cyber business, connecting them with a range of likeminded entrepreneurs and domain experts. The programme will comprise an intensive weeklong bootcamp and an Autumn follow-up event for progress-tracking and alumni networking, bridged with ongoing guidance from HutZero staff and mentors. For more information and to apply please visit www.hutzero.co.uk
About Cyber London
Cyber London is a hub for the cyber security companies of tomorrow. Our three month accelerator programme offers some of Europe’s most promising entrepreneurs the training necessary to build and grow a successful cyber security company. Alongside an intensive professional curriculum, Cyber London’s participants also receive personal guidance and support from an accomplished network of mentors. Our programme culminates with a Demo Day, allowing participants to present their products, progress and potential to a range of partners and investors. Our incubator space supports more advanced cyber security companies looking to take their businesses to the next level. For the duration of the programme, our incubator teams access the benefits of Cyber London’s unique network and expertise whilst they focus on business and product development. Both the accelerator and incubator are housed in fully-furnished, modern office space in London.
For more information, please visit https://cylonlab.com/
*Information taken from Global Cyber Security Market Research Report: 2014-2019, Europe Cyber Security, MicroMarketMonitor, http://www.micromarketmonitor.com/market-report/cyber-security-reports-7651948375.html