Cybersecurity initiative works to protect businesses across Essex

The Cyber Innovate to Elevate (CItE) scheme, which launched in September, is delivered by Freeport East in partnership with the University of Essex. With funding from Innovate UK through the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) Cyber Local Project, the programme delivers fully funded consultancy and hands-on support. Steve Beel, chief executive at Freeport East, said: "We're very proud to have developed this innovative programme with the University of Essex and Innovate UK in direct response to local SME feedback.

"Cyber Innovate to Elevate provides fully funded, hands-on consultancy and practical training tailored to the needs of each business. "The level of interest we have seen highlights a significant regional skills gap but also shows that businesses want to invest in their cyber preparedness and be ready for emerging threats. "Until now, dedicated cybersecurity support for SMEs has been limited, leaving many businesses feeling exposed and unsure about how to build internal resilience."

The programme has already approved eight consultancy projects across a range of sectors, including manufacturing, education, and high-hazard chemical supply. Early participants include Portable Space in Bacton, Curtis Machine Tools in Colchester, Thurstable School in Tiptree, Construction Training Services in Needham Market, and East Harbour Group in Colchester. Holly Leonard, head of business engagement at the University of Essex, said: "Combining the University of Essex's cybersecurity research excellence with hands-on consultancy is giving local SMEs practical, fully funded support where it's needed most.

"The strong interest we've seen underlines the scale of demand for accessible cyber guidance. "Through this partnership with Freeport East and Innovate UK, we're not only strengthening cyber resilience across Suffolk and Essex but also providing our students with valuable industry experience and helping local businesses build the capability and confidence to thrive." The scheme has already attracted more than 150 expressions of interest from businesses.

It offers access to academic expertise, comprehensive cyber audits, governance guidance, secure-by-design development support, and networking opportunities. Businesses also benefit from workshops, technical deep dives and knowledge-sharing sessions, and a six-week 'iTeams' innovation challenge connecting SMEs with MSc and PhD students. The CItE programme is supported by the Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre (ECRC), a police organisation offering additional guidance and aftercare.

Ed Mayhew, operations director at Curtis Machine Tools, said: "We're thrilled to be part of the Cyber Innovate to Elevate programme. "Strengthening our resilience against cyber threats is a top priority, and this initiative offers a fantastic opportunity to do just that." Emma Bailey, project and funding manager at Construction Training Services, said: "The funding provides a significant boost that helps us to safeguard our customers and continue growing with confidence."

Freeport East, its partners and the University of Essex are now exploring how the model could be scaled up further to serve more businesses in the region and across the UK.