Level39 launches new programme in bid to make UK a world leader in cyber security

Level39, the Canary Wharf-based accelerator, has announced the launch of Cyber39 – a new programme designed to make the UK a world leader in cyber security tech and “the safest place in the world to do business”.

Helping cyber security start-ups to scale and develop new tech that will combat the rise of cybercrime, the initial cohort of businesses involved will include Level39’s existing 22 cyber security scale-ups.

The announcement also coincides with the launch of the government-backed Cyber Demonstration Centre at Level39.

Endorsed by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Department of International Trade, the space makes world-class infrastructure available to startups in London, allowing them to showcase their tech securely.

Cyber39 is calling on startups to apply to the programme, with all applicants having immediate access to cyber mentors and the Level39 community.

The founding members of the Cyber39 are:

• Authlete
• Critical Cyber Systems
• CSIT
• CybSafe
• Cybus Global
• Digital Shadows
• EclecticIQ
• Encap Security
• Encedo
• Envision&Company
• eSentire
• HCE Service
• MYPINPAD
• Obrela Security Industries
• RedOwl
• RedCloud Technologies
• Risk.Ident
• Route Trading
• Secure Chorus
• Security Alliance
• Signicat
• Verimuchme

Ben Brabyn, head of Level39, said:

“The cyber security threat is constantly evolving and poses a fundamental challenge to each and every major global industry, particularly financial services.

“While the government has committed to backing innovation to address this threat, the private sector must accelerate the growth of the ambitious startups that are so often our first line of defence.

“The UK is home to countless cyber security startups that are already working with public and private actors to withstand this onslaught. However, Britain cannot simply resist cyber-attacks.

“The moment is now to harness the billion-dollar opportunity of cyber security innovation and ensure the UK becomes the most secure place to do business in the world. The Cyber39 seeks to enable ambitious entrepreneurs to do exactly this.”

Matt Hancock, minister for digital, said:

“London is at the forefront of the booming cyber security industry, and we want to keep it that way, attracting investment and keeping people safe online.

“The Cyber39 programme and world class demonstration centre will allow companies from across the world to showcase their cutting-edge cyber security products and help keep London at the top of the pack.”