Skip to content

NCSC Funded Cyber Essentials Plus Scheme

26 November 20242 min read
News
NCSC Funded Cyber Essentials Plus Scheme

Please note this page has been updated to reflected the widened criteria for the scheme.

To qualify for this scheme, companies must be a micro or small business (1 to 49 employees) registered in the UK and working on:

  • Artificial Intelligence – The development of fundamental Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, OR the innovative application of Artificial Intelligence technologies in the following sectors: Public safety and health, Defence and security.

  • Quantum – The development of novel Quantum technologies.

  • Semiconductors – The design, development or manufacturing of semiconductors / semiconductor IP blocks.

  • Engineering/Synthetic Biology – The development of Engineering Biology or Synthetic Biology.

  • Advanced Materials – Companies involved in developing advanced materials that have enhanced properties and performance, often incorporating new compositions or structures to improve strength, durability, lightweight, or functionality for specific applications**.

  • Advanced Robotics – companies involved in the development of autonomous robotics that can perform complex tasks and adapt to novel environments using advanced technologies.

  • Fusion Energy – Companies involved in the development of methods and systems designed to harness the energy produced by nuclear fusion***.

  • Satellite and Space Technologies – Companies involved in the development, deployment, and utilisation of satellites and related systems for various applications, including communication, navigation, Earth observation, and scientific research. This may include satellite design, launch systems or ground control operations.

  • Specialist National Security Applications/Solutions – Companies must also be in one of the 

    17 defined sensitive areas of the economy

     covered by the Notifiable Acquisition Regulations under the National Security and Investment Act. Each application under this category will be considered on merit & a discretionary basis.

Qualifying organisations will receive around 20 hours of remote support with an Advisor. This time will be spent identifying and implementing improvements that are right for the size and needs of the organisation and supporting them in implementing the 5 Cyber Essentials technical controls. This will be followed by a hands-on technical verification that the controls have been put in place. If it is not possible for the organisation to achieve Cyber Essentials Plus, the Advisor will help organisations implement as many of the technical controls as possible. The scheme is designed to lead an organisation through the technical controls required to achieve Cyber Essentials certification, followed by the audit for Cyber Essentials Plus. No previous cyber security certification or experience is necessary.

The scheme is run by IASME, the NCSC’s Official Cyber Essentials Delivery Partner. Full details and the application form are available on the IASME website, linked here.