Uptake of innovative cybersecurity solutions for smes

The primary goal of this grant is to enhance the cybersecurity posture of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by developing and deploying an innovative cyber toolkit as a service. This toolkit is designed to help SMEs manage cyber risks, define and implement cybersecurity strategies, and comply with relevant EU cybersecurity legislation, such as the Cyber Resilience Act. The toolkit may include interfaces to connect with commonly used SaaS applications, functions for mapping digital assets and vulnerabilities, risk assessment and management tools, alert systems for vulnerabilities and threats, and direct connections to incident response teams or cyber hubs. Additionally, the grant aims to improve industrial and market readiness for cybersecurity requirements, support incident reporting and recovery, and facilitate cooperation with national authorities and cross-border platforms.

Eligibility for this grant is targeted at entities capable of developing and delivering cybersecurity solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs. This includes organizations with expertise in cybersecurity, software development, and incident response, as well as those able to provide multilingual support and specialized training for first responders in sectors such as healthcare, finance, energy, and transportation. Proposals should address at least one of the specified priorities, such as compliance support, incident response, or supply chain resilience.

The anticipated impact includes increased availability of innovative cybersecurity tools and services for SMEs, improved incident reporting and response capabilities, and enhanced security of network and information systems across the EU. By supporting SMEs in meeting legislative requirements and strengthening their cyber resilience, the grant is expected to reduce successful cyberattacks, improve digital hygiene, and foster a more secure digital environment for European businesses.