Cyber Security Improvement Grant for SMEs

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has launched the NCC-IE Cyber Security Improvement Grant for SMEs. This €2 million fund is aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Ireland as they enhance their cybersecurity. The grant provides support to companies to implement priority recommendations from the Enterprise Ireland Cyber Security Review Grant and improve the resilience of Irish businesses against cyber threats.

This new initiative, co-funded by the European Union’s Digital Europe Programme, offers companies the financial support they need to strengthen their IT systems, improve operational security, and ensure their long-term protection from increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. Eligible SMEs can apply for funding of 80% of project costs, with a maximum grant of €60,000, to implement key cybersecurity measures, re-test their systems, and receive expert guidance for future improvements.

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications Ossian Smyth welcomed the grant launch, stating:

“Irish businesses, especially SMEs, are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. This grant will empower them to take meaningful steps towards securing their operations, which is critical in today’s digital economy. By partnering with the National Cybersecurity Centre and Enterprise Ireland, we are giving companies the tools and resources they need to build stronger defences and stay ahead of evolving cyber risks.”

Director of Resilience at the NCSC, Joseph Stephens, added:

“This funding is a strategic investment in the security of Ireland’s growing small businesses. With cyber threats continuing to grow in sophistication, we must ensure that companies have the support to implement robust measures and protect their data, operations, and customers. The Cyber Security Improvement Grant provides practical assistance to strengthen defences and raise cybersecurity standards across the country. The measures we are targeting for improvement align with the obligations of the NIS2 Directive, allowing companies to prepare”

The grant is available to SMEs that have already undertaken the Enterprise Ireland Cyber Security Review and are seeking to implement the recommended improvements.

Applications are open until 8 December 2024, with high demand expected.

For further information and to apply, businesses can visit the NCSC website.

Cybersecurity For SMEs – The Basics

This Cybersecurity for SMEs course is based on common questions from business owners and managers. What are the threats and what can we do to put controls and countermeasures in place to implement the beginnings of a cybersecurity strategy.

What is covered: