CyberASAP is a well-established programme now in its ninth year. The in-depth programme supports UK academics who are interested in commercialising their cyber security ideas and is delivered annually with a duration of approximately ten months.
To build on the achievements of the full programme and encourage future applicants, we are running another CyberASAP Pathfinder short-programme in January 2026. The programme is being run in partnership by Innovate UK Business Connect and Innovate UK with funding from DSIT.
CyberASAP Pathfinder will offer a fusion of virtual and in-person learning experiences over four days (two half days online & a two-day in-person bootcamp), thoughtfully tailored to support and encourage academic cybersecurity sector-specific commercialisation.
CyberASAP Pathfinder is designed to act as a solid stepping stone for researchers to then move onto CyberASAP (Cyber Security Academic Startup Accelerator Programme), the only pre-seed accelerator programme in the cyber security ecosystem. CyberASAP is now in its ninth year. Funding for the programme for 2026/27 has been confirmed and we expect applications for Year 10 to open in late January with the programme commencing in April.
Eligibility
You must be currently affiliated to a UK University and have a cyber security idea to take part in CyberASAP Pathfinder.
CyberASAP Pathfinder is intended to encourage applications to the full CyberASAP programme. Therefore anyone who has previously led a CyberASAP project to completion (developing an MVP/Proof-of-Concept) is not eligible to participate in CyberASAP Pathfinder.
Scope
When considering applications we will primarily use the definitions of cyber security in the UK Government’s 2025 Digital and Technologies Sector Plan and the NCSC definition as follows…
Cyber Security is about protecting the technology we rely on for everyday life and work. This includes protecting critical infrastructure like power grids; securing personal data in healthcare systems; and safeguarding financial institutions from fraud. It is crucial for protecting our economy and ensuring our security online.
The protection of devices, services and networks – and the information on them – from unauthorised access, theft or damage.
We will consider cyber security ideas which are outside this definition – including those that address/mitigate online harms – on a case-by-case basis
Key dates
Thu 8 January 2026 (morning): preliminary half-day online workshop
Wed 14 – Thu 15 January 2026: in-person two day bootcamp in Birmingham
Wed 21 January 2026 (afternoon): concluding half-day online workshop
There is no charge to participate in CyberASAP Pathfinder if your application is successful, but you must attend the two half-day online workshops plus the two-day in-person bootcamp.
For the two-day bootcamp in Birmingham, meals, refreshments and two night’s accommodation (nights of Tuesday 13 & Wednesday 14 January 2026) will be included but if you are selected to attend, please note you are responsible for funding and arranging your travel to/from the venue in Birmingham.
The closing date for applications is Thursday 4 December 2025. For questions, please contact the team at cyberasap@iukbc.org.uk .
Innovate UK's application and funding process
If you need more information about how to apply, please read our funding support pages. For additional support, reach out to our team of innovation experts who are ready to help you navigate the application process and maximise your chances of success.
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Accessibility and Inclusion
Innovate UK welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to making our application process accessible to everyone. This includes making reasonable adjustments, for people who have a disability or a long-term condition and face barriers applying to us.