Enterprise Ireland, National Cyber Security Centre offer security grants to SMEs
Enterprise Ireland and the National Cyber Security Centre today launched the Cyber Security Review Grant which will assist SMEs to take steps to review and update their online security measures to mitigate against the risk of cyber-attacks.
The support is available to Enterprise Ireland clients with 80% of the fixed project cost covered to the value of €3,000, encompassing all project expenses, including consultant time and other related costs.
The Grant is being made available from €85 million in funds that have been allocated to the Dept of Enterprise Trade & Employment through the European Union’s NextGenerationEU funding instrument for supporting the digital transformation of enterprise as part of Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan. This funding is being channelled into the Digital Transition Fund for the establishment of a digital portal and to provide for direct to company supports, and four European Digital Innovation Hubs with the aim of helping companies (notably SMEs) access research infrastructure, technical expertise and experimentation in order that these organisations can ‘test before invest’.
Businesses that avail of the Cyber Security Review will receive consultancy from a qualified, external cyber security expert who will investigate current company practices and review the technical implementation of both on-site and cloud software. A detailed report in line with National Cyber Security Centre’s best practise will then be delivered, outlining actionable steps to improve the company’s cyber security position.
Minister of State for Business, Employment & Retail Emer Higgins TD said: “Irish businesses are leading the way and setting the standard for digital transformation across all sectors. They understand the value of enhancing their digital security. I am delighted that the Cyber Security Grant will provide support with the essential first steps towards achieving international best practices in cyber security, an increasingly important factor when competing for business on a global stage.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment & Circular Economy Ossian Smyth said: “DECC’s Statement of Strategy, Le Chéile 25, sets an ambitious objective to realise a vibrant and expert cyber security industry in Ireland. The collaboration of the NCSC with Enterprise Ireland to deliver this first-of-its-kind grant scheme represents a key milestone in Le Chéile 25 and in the National Cyber Security Strategy 2019-2024.”
Anne Lanigan, divisional manager, technology services, Enterprise Ireland, said: “Leveraging digital tools can significantly enhance your company’s capabilities. However, it is crucial to invest in protecting sensitive information and mitigating the risk of cyber attacks. This is especially important as recent advancements in AI have made smaller businesses more attractive targets for malicious actors.
“The Cyber Security Review aims to help business examine any pitfalls which may leave their systems open and vulnerable to compromise and allows them to put the appropriate measures in place. As we enter into International Cyber Awareness month I would encourage EI clients to avail of the support to help them remain one step ahead in an increasingly heightened cyber threat environment.”
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