Reflections from the very last #NCSCForStartups Alumni Showcase.
🚀 Celebrating the Legacy of NCSC for Startups
Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending the final #NCSCForStartups Alumni Showcase—a moment to celebrate the impact of an initiative that has shaped the UK’s cybersecurity startup ecosystem for years.
NCSC for Startups has been a game-changer, helping cybersecurity companies develop, test, and scale solutions with the backing of government, industry, and investors. While this marks the end of the program, the UK’s cyber innovation landscape remains stronger than ever, thanks to other ongoing initiatives led by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
Other NCSC Programs Driving Cyber Resilience
Even though NCSC for Startups has ended, the NCSC continues to support cyber talent, innovation, and collaboration through key initiatives:
🔹 CyberFirst – A flagship program inspiring young people to build careers in cybersecurity, ensuring the next generation of cyber leaders is ready.
🔹 Industry 100 – Embedding private sector experts into government, strengthening cross-sector cyber collaboration.
🔹 Cyber Accelerator – Previously supporting early-stage cybersecurity startups, paving the way for entrepreneurs to build scalable security solutions.
🔹 NCSC-Assured Cyber Courses – Raising the standard of cybersecurity education by ensuring universities provide industry-relevant skills.
These programs show that cybersecurity isn’t just about technology—it’s about people.
The Future of Cybersecurity: Human-Centered Innovation
As threats evolve, understanding human behaviour is just as critical as building stronger defenses. The next wave of cybersecurity must focus on:
🔹 AI & Trust in Security – How do we ensure AI-driven cybersecurity supports human decision-making rather than replacing critical thinking?
🔹 Social Engineering & Psychological Manipulation – As AI-generated disinformation and deepfake scams rise, how do we build psychological resilience?
🔹 Behavioural Cybersecurity – What strategies encourage secure behaviours without causing fatigue or frustration?
Cybersecurity Innovation Never Stops
The NCSC for Startups program may have ended, but its impact will continue through the companies and innovators it has supported. With ongoing initiatives driving cybersecurity forward, the UK remains at the forefront of building a more secure digital future.
💬 What’s next for cybersecurity innovation, and how do we ensure the human element stays at the core? Let’s discuss.
#PsyberMondays #NCSCForStartups #CyberPsychology #CyberSecurity #Innovation #TechForGood #CyberResilience #Plexal #CyberFirst