Government announces ‘first-of-its-kind’ cyber security start-up accelerator

The department for culture, media and sport (DCMS) has partnered with Wayra UK and cyber security agency GCHQ to launch a “groundbreaking” and “world-leading” cyber security accelerator.

The accelerator- part of the government’s £1.9bn national cyber security programme – will seek to help UK start-ups produce the next generation of cyber security systems with the goal to protect the country from future cyber attacks.

Wayra UK will run the start-up accelerator facility while members of the accelerator will gain access to GCHQ’s personnel and technological expertise.

The accelerator will be based at a new Cheltenham Innovation Centre and is due to open around the turn of the year. A second innovation centre will open in London in 2017. The government is contributing £50m over the next five years to deliver the two innovation centres.

Matt Hancock MP, minister of state for digital and culture, commented:

“We are making progress in our ambitious programme to support innovation in cyber security, grow the UK’s thriving sector and protect Britain from cyber attacks and threats. Our two new cyber innovation centres […] will be invaluable in helping support start-up companies and develop world-class cyber technology.”

Wayra UK director, Gary Stewart, continued: “Our shared vision will not only safeguard the country against cyber threats but also increase opportunities for UK-based start-ups and help establish the UK as a global hub for cyber talent.”

Applications for the accelerator are open now, find out more here.