Government Launches Cyber Growth Action Plan and Bold Investment Plans
The UK government has introduced a major new initiative, the Cyber Growth Action Plan & Bold Investment Plans, aimed at strengthening and expanding the nation’s cybersecurity sector. Announced on 18 June, this effort is part of the wider “Plan for Change” strategy and is supported by up to £16 million in fresh investments. The cyber industry, already contributing £13.2 billion to the UK economy and employing more than 67,000 people, is seen as a key pillar in the country’s future digital and economic resilience.
The new plan is being developed by experts at the University of Bristol and Imperial College London’s Centre for Sectoral Economic Performance (CSEP). It will assess the current strengths of the UK’s cyber industry and recommend steps to maximize growth, with final recommendations expected later this summer. The government believes this strategy will unlock new opportunities in areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and digital protection services.
Millions in Funding for Innovation and Startups
As part of the growth plan, up to £10 million will be invested in the CyberASAP programme over the next four years for Bold Investment Plans . This initiative helps transform academic research into commercial ventures. So far, CyberASAP has supported 34 startup companies that have collectively raised over £43 million. The new funding aims to add 25 more spin-out companies by 2030 and attract an additional £30 million in private investment.
In addition, £6 million has been allocated to scale the existing Cyber Runway programme, supporting cyber-focused startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs). These funds will help startups grow, enter international markets, and strengthen the UK’s broader cyber ecosystem. By nurturing both academic and entrepreneurial talent, the government aims to ensure that the UK stays ahead as a global hub for cyber innovation.
Cyber Security Minister Feryal Clark stated that the investments reflect the UK’s commitment to being a world leader in cyber protection. Chancellor Pat McFadden emphasized the dual benefits of job creation and improved national security.
Experts Join Forces to Strengthen Public Sector Cyber Defences
Alongside new funding, the government has revitalized the Government Cyber Advisory Board (GCAB), enlisting top minds from the tech industry, academia, and defence. Notable members include experts from BAE Systems, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Santander, and Google DeepMind. Their collective goal is to boost cyber resilience in public services such as healthcare and energy.
GCAB members expressed strong support for the initiative. Daniel Cuthbert, the board’s co-chair, highlighted the importance of private-public collaboration. Others, including Sarah Armstrong-Smith and Cate Pye, stressed the urgency of building societal-level cyber resilience and fostering trust between government and industry.
The outcomes of the Cyber Growth Action Plan will feed into the upcoming National Cyber Strategy and a proposed Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, expected to be introduced in Parliament later this year. These efforts are designed to safeguard critical infrastructure, support high-tech job creation, and reinforce the UK’s position as a cybersecurity leader on the global stage.
