New Regional Skills Projects: Strengthening Cyber Defenses and Fueling the UK's Digital Future

A Bold Investment in Cyber Resilience

In a strategic move to reinforce the UK's cyber defenses, more than 30 projects spread across England and Northern Ireland will be funded with a share of £1.9 million in government and private investment. These targeted initiatives are designed to provide critical support in several areas—from shielding businesses and families from cyber-attacks to delivering cutting-edge training that prepares the workforce for the future.

Located in key regions such as Northern Ireland, the Midlands, Yorkshire and Humber, the South West, North East, and North West of England, these programs are not just about enhancing security—they are about future-proofing the UK’s digital economy. The government’s Plan for Change, which aims to unlock new opportunities for the workforce while driving economic growth, is at the heart of these efforts.

Building the Cyber Workforce of Tomorrow

The UK’s cyber industry, currently worth £11.9 billion, is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the economy. Yet, with cyber threats escalating at an unprecedented rate, there is a pressing need for a robust, skilled workforce. Reports indicate that almost half of UK businesses are facing a shortage of cyber professionals. These projects are specifically designed to address this gap by empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills required to fill the demand.

The initiatives span a wide spectrum, catering to diverse audiences, including secondary school students, apprentices, and professionals already in the workforce. Local expertise will play a central role, as each project tailors its approach to the specific needs of the community, from upskilling workers in small businesses to introducing new pathways for marginalised groups to enter the sector.

Local Solutions to a National Challenge

Among the projects supported, programs in the South West and Yorkshire will focus on enhancing the capabilities of small business workers, ensuring that cyber security practices are embedded within the local economy. Additionally, in the North West of England, a project will open doors for communities to explore potential careers in the rapidly growing cyber sector.

One of the standout projects in Northern Ireland aims to increase the representation of neurodiverse individuals in cyber security, enhancing the diversity and talent pool within the sector. At the same time, a West Midlands initiative will specifically target women and girls, aiming to equip them with the knowledge to safeguard against cyber violence and abuse.

These projects are not just about protecting the UK’s infrastructure—they are about unlocking new opportunities for individuals across the country, creating high-quality jobs, and ensuring that the next generation of cyber leaders is ready to defend the digital economy.

Strengthening the Digital Defenses of the Nation

Minister for Cyber Security, Feryal Clark, highlighted the growing importance of cyber security in an increasingly digital world:

“We live more and more of our lives online - whether that’s for our weekly shopping, banking, browsing the web to book a holiday, or simply staying in touch with our loved ones.

But our growing digital economy is also worth billions to the economy. That’s why having strong defences in place is more important than ever – and as part of our Plan for Change to grow our economy, we also need to protect it.

Attempts to disrupt the technologies and services we rely on daily continue to grow, so we’re leaving no stone un-turned to make sure our communities have the skills to rise to the challenge.

It’s also vital we develop a diverse and talented cyber security workforce, which is why the next phase of the Cyber Explorers Cup competition will be vital in identifying the UK’s cyber leaders of tomorrow.”

National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Director for National Resilience and Future Technology, Jonathan Ellison said:

"These projects will help enhance the UK’s cyber resilience by empowering local communities with the skills and support needed to combat growing digital threats.

By upskilling small businesses and individuals, investing in workforce development and encouraging neurodiverse talent, government and industry partners are fostering robust and diverse cyber communities for the future.

This is vital for protecting our digital economy, creating new opportunities for secure innovation and helping make the UK the safest place to live and work online.

Stella Peace, Interim Executive Chair, Innovate UK, said: 

Innovate UK are delighted to celebrate the winners of the first Cyber Local competition as they begin their funded projects.

These initiatives play a vital role in addressing the cyber skills gap by equipping local communities with essential cyber security skills and creating greater opportunities for individuals, particularly from underrepresented demographics, to pursue careers in this dynamic sector.

By fostering area partnerships and building strong links between industry, the public sector, and academia, these projects will strengthen local cyber security ecosystems and drive innovation. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these investments will have on both local communities and the broader national cyber resilience.

Fostering a diverse and skilled cyber workforce is integral to the nation’s digital security. The government’s investment in programs like the Cyber Explorers Cup is key to identifying the leaders of tomorrow. As part of the initiative, students across the country will compete in a series of cyber security challenges that test their problem-solving abilities and increase their understanding of the field.

Empowering the Cyber Leaders of the Future

The Cyber Explorers Cup is a vital component of the UK’s efforts to spark interest in the cyber security field among young people. The program, which is available to students aged 11-14, provides them with the necessary digital skills to pursue future careers in cyber security. This year, competitors will take part in interactive “capture the flag” style challenges that require them to solve cyber security puzzles and expand their expertise.

The winners will receive recognition for their achievements, including certificates of excellence, and will be provided with valuable career development opportunities, such as career days with cyber security experts. As the program continues to grow, it is expected to play an essential role in addressing the growing demand for cyber security professionals in the UK.

A Vision for the Future

As the UK prepares to introduce a new Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, the projects announced today are a crucial step in fulfilling the government’s broader goals for 2025 and beyond. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of global digital security, offering new opportunities for individuals and communities while strengthening the resilience of the nation’s digital infrastructure.

With the combined efforts of government, industry, and local communities, the UK is building a cyber workforce capable of tackling the challenges of the future. This investment is not only about securing the UK’s digital economy—it is about fostering innovation, creating high-quality jobs, and securing a safer and more prosperous future for everyone.

Further Information

For more details, you can read the full list of the Cyber Local projects being supported.

The Cyber Explorers Cup competition will take place from 31 March to 4 April.

The NCSC has produced CyberFirst Navigators resources to help 11 to 14-year-olds understand how to stay safe online.