DSIT’s March 2025 newsletter reveals a surging UK cyber sector, boasting 12% growth and thousands of new jobs. Funding initiatives, skills programs, and public engagement campaigns highlight the nation’s commitment to digital security and inclusion
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has released its March 2025 cybersecurity newsletter, detailing significant growth within the UK’s cyber sector and outlining a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering digital resilience and skills development. The newsletter, published on March 13th, 2025, showcases the sector’s robust expansion, funding opportunities, and efforts to bridge the digital divide.
Director’s message: A year of remarkable growth
Rod Latham, Director of Cyber Security and Digital Identity, opened the newsletter with a message highlighting the sector’s impressive performance. The latest analysis reveals a 12% increase in revenue, reaching £13.2 billion, alongside an 11% rise in employment, now totalling 67,300 professionals.
Latham also pointed to the significant 21% growth in gross value added, reaching £7.8 billion. He emphasised the UK’s position as a global leader in cybersecurity, celebrating the success of programs like CyberASAP and Cyber Runway. Furthermore, he addressed the publication of the Digital Inclusion Action Plan aimed at ensuring equitable access to digital skills and opportunities.
UK cyber sector analysis: 12% growth and job creation
The 2025 Cyber Sectoral Analysis, released by DSIT, confirms the sector’s dynamic growth. The 12% revenue increase and creation of 6,600 new jobs underscore the industry’s vitality. With over 2,000 cybersecurity businesses now operating in the UK, the sector’s contribution to the economy is substantial. Notably, £206 million was invested in 59 deals within dedicated cybersecurity firms in 2024. Complementing this analysis, a report on the AI and software cybersecurity markets provides a deeper understanding of these crucial subsectors.
Funding and innovation: Supporting growth and skills
DSIT is actively fostering growth through various funding initiatives. The Cyber Local program, designed to provide tailored support across England, is now offering further grant funding. Expressions of interest are being accepted until March 14th. Additionally, the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) has opened its first innovation call for 2025, seeking disruptive ideas to address defence sector challenges, with submissions due by April 29th.
Celebrating success: CyberASAP and cyber runway
The newsletter highlighted the successful conclusion of the Cyber Academic Startup Accelerator Programme (CyberASAP), marked by an Alumni Conference, a House of Lords reception, and a Demo Day.
These events showcased the achievements of startups commercialising academic cybersecurity research. Similarly, the Cyber Runway graduation event in Salford celebrated the success of UK cyber entrepreneurs, with five companies participating in a trade mission to Washington to explore international expansion.
UK Cyber Team and Cyber Explorers
Efforts to cultivate future cybersecurity talent are evident in the formation of the UK Cyber Team, which will compete in its first international Capture the Flag (CTF) competition in Ireland. The team, comprising top young cybersecurity talent, aims to showcase their skills and bridge the cybersecurity skills gap.
The Cyber Explorers Cup, a competition for students aged 11-14, is also underway, encouraging young people to engage with cybersecurity concepts.
Addressing cyber threats and public engagement
DSIT and the National Cyber Security Centre are promoting the Cyber Essentials scheme to small businesses, raising awareness of cyber risks and the benefits of certification. A new survey detailing cybersecurity actions by large organisations reveals trends in cyber incidents, supplier risks, and budgetary allocations.
Additionally, new research on public attitudes to connected places and related technologies in sectors like sport, transport, and education aims to foster public trust and engagement.
Bridging the digital divide: Digital Inclusion Action Plan
The Digital Inclusion Action Plan outlines five key actions to ensure equitable access to digital skills and opportunities. Initiatives include a pilot to donate used government laptops, a new Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, and a call for evidence to address digital exclusion.
Empowering women in Ccyber: CyberNorth Initiative
CyberNorth has secured funding to launch a project aimed at empowering career advisors and teachers to support young girls and women in pursuing cybersecurity careers. The “Influencing the Influencer” project includes a portal with resources and a campaign to change perceptions of cybersecurity careers.
In conclusion, the DSIT newsletter paints a picture of a thriving UK cyber sector driven by innovation, investment, and a commitment to inclusivity. The diverse range of initiatives and research underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring a secure and prosperous digital future for all.
