North West universities are launching a £4.9 million initiative to enhance cyber capabilities.
- Seven universities collaborate with local councils and industry players.
- The project aims to establish 85 new partnerships and develop 400 innovations.
- A target of £40 million in additional funding for the region has been set.
- The initiative is expected to train 300 individuals in cyber skills.
Seven universities in the North West of England are teaming up for a significant £4.9 million project known as CyberFocus. This initiative seeks to strengthen the region’s cyber capabilities by fostering collaboration among academic institutions, local councils, and industry leaders.
The universities involved include Lancaster, Manchester, Salford, Central Lancashire, Cumbria, Manchester Metropolitan, and Liverpool. These institutions, in partnership with organizations such as Team Barrow, Enterprising Cumbria, and BAE Systems, aim to create societal and economic benefits by converting research into practical solutions.
The CyberFocus project has set ambitious goals, including forming 85 new partnerships and developing 400 new products, processes, or services. Moreover, the initiative aims to secure an additional £40 million in funding for the region.
A significant aspect of the project is its focus on training 300 individuals in cyber innovation. By enhancing skills in this area, CyberFocus intends to empower the next generation of cyber experts, further positioning the North West as a leader in the field.
Daniel Prince, Professor of Cyber Security at Lancaster University, emphasized the transformative nature of the project, stating that it aims to connect regional expertise to tackle evolving cyber challenges. With GCHQ now in Manchester and the National Cyber Force in Lancashire, the North West is presented with a unique opportunity to bolster national cyber resilience.
CyberFocus is designed to leverage current momentum by integrating cutting-edge research with real-world applications. This approach is expected to protect critical sectors such as health, social care, nuclear, and digital manufacturing.
The initiative’s emphasis on trusted partnerships and innovation across sectors highlights its potential not only to create jobs and enhance economic value but also to fortify the UK’s cyber capabilities. By doing so, the North West could establish itself as a central player in addressing contemporary cyber threats.
The CyberFocus project is set to transform the North West into a cornerstone of cyber security innovation and resilience.
