DSIT Publishes Cyber Runway Programme Evaluation

Research into the effectiveness of Cyber Runway, a government accelerator programme to support the development and growth of cyber security businesses

A strong cyber security sector is essential for security and prosperity in the modern digital economy. The government is helping to support growth and innovation in the cyber security sector by addressing known issues firms face, such as commercial and entrepreneurial skills, access to the funding and wider barriers to growth and commercialisation.

As part of this work the government is delivering the Cyber Runway programme to support firms at various stages of growth. The programme is funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and is delivered by Plexal, with support from Deloitte and the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT). This research evaluates the success of the programme since 2021/2022.

This research is part of the government’s wider work to grow the UK cyber security sector, develop the UK cyber ecosystem and increase cyber resilience across the UK economy.

Some key facts to note:

• Over 34 companies have been formed, with many more developing proofs of concept, licensing technology, or releasing open-source outputs
• For every £1 of government money invested, spin-out companies received an additional £3.92 from other sources
• CyberASAP spin-outs have created around 76 net additional jobs, responsible for £8.89 million in annual Gross Value Added (GVA). The ratio of annual recurring GVA to annual programme cost is about 6.35:1, indicating strong economic returns
• The current ROI is estimated at 6.35:1, with expectations for further growth in future cohorts
• Surveys show very high satisfaction rates (96–100%) with the programme’s structure, phases, and support. Participants particularly value the systematic training, mentoring, and peer learning opportunities
• Female representation among participants has increased from 13% (Cohorts 1–5) to 34% (Cohorts 6–8), with a similar rise in ethnic minority participation. This is above the sector average and demonstrates progress towards greater equity
• The programme is increasingly seen as a flagship initiative, enhancing the reputation of UK academic cyber research among investors and industry leaders.

If you are interested in reading the full report, follow the link below.