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Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme2025-09-23T09:13:19+01:00

Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme

In a partnership with the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Innovate UK, Department for Business and Trade (DBT), and Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), the Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme is a part-funded scheme where eligible tech start-ups can access support from an approved Security Reviewer to enhance their approach to protective and cyber security.

The Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme is a new initiative, designed to help tech start-ups integrate protective security into their broader business strategies. Shift Key Cyber are a Security Reviewer and approved to deliver the Secure Innovation Security Reviews. We will provide organisations who choose us as their Security Reviewer expert advice and tailored guidance to help identify and manage key security risks, while building internal knowledge on how to better protect themselves.

What are Secure Innovation Security Reviews?

A Secure Innovation Security Review provides a high-level assessment of an organisation’s security posture. Reviews are conducted by an approved Security Reviewer who will assess current security practices and provide expert advice against a framework developed by the UK’s national technical authorities, NPSA and NCSC. The review covers:

  • Protective Security Governance 

  • Security Culture

  • Risk Management

  • Cyber Security

  • Secure Supply Chains and Partnerships

  • Incident Management

Businesses who are part of the scheme will also receive a £300 voucher towards gaining Cyber Essentials certification, NCSC’s recommended minimum baseline for cyber security in the UK.

Why is the Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme important?

The Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme aims to provide early-stage innovation companies with key information from a security professional on how to protect their intellectual property, competitive advantage, and reputation from foreign state threat actors and foreign state backed competitors. The risk to start-ups and spin-outs within the tech space who have significant growth potential are particularly at risk. There are 17 sectors which have been identified for the scheme, who are part of the National Security and Investment Act and the UK Industrial Strategy.  

 

Applications are now open to eligible organisations with under 250 employees. For more information on eligibility and to apply to the scheme, visit the Innovate UK website.

How do I apply to the Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme?2025-07-14T16:37:14+01:00

You can find more information on eligibility for the Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme and to apply, visit Opportunities – Innovate UK Business Connect

How many companies can receive Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme funding?2025-07-14T16:37:17+01:00

500 UK-based eligible businesses will receive Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme funding.

Once I’ve applied to the Secure Innovation Security Review Scheme, what are the next steps?2025-07-14T16:37:21+01:00

Once your application has been received, it will go through an eligibility check. If you are successful, you will be sent an offer letter and details of how you can select your consultant to deliver your Security Review.

What if my company already has Cyber Essentials?2025-07-14T16:35:58+01:00

Your voucher can be used towards your next renewal.

What happens after the Security Review?2025-07-21T13:03:52+01:00

Your consultant will book in a follow-up review in 6 months time.

All applications must be made through the Innovate UK website. However, if you would like to discuss the scheme with one of our experts prior to applying, please book a free consultation. We’ll look forward to meeting you.

If you are looking for support in uncovering potential threats, creating mitigation plans, and reducing your exposure to risk, please visit our Audits & Risk Management page.

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