New secure innovation service earns strong endorsement from the UK’s emerging tech sector

The recently launched Secure Innovation Security Review (SISR) service is receiving positive recognition from technology-led businesses across the UK. It provides expert, tailored guidance to help businesses review their existing security provisions and take steps to better protect their ideas, technologies and reputation.  

The service is funded through a joint initiative involving the Department for Business and Trade, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the National Protective Security Authority and the National Cyber Security Centre. 

Businesses apply through Innovate UK, the UK’s national innovation agency, and contribute just £500, with the remaining £2,500 funded by the scheme. Following the review, carried out by an approved security expert, businesses also receive a £300 voucher towards Cyber Essentials certification, which can help to better protect them from cyberattacks, build greater customer trust and help them to win new contracts. 

Better security and IP protection 

Following a successful 2023 pilot, the scheme proper launched on 10 July 2025, with innovative early-stage tech firms from all over the country signing up. 

Some owners did so because they were worried about the increasing and ever-evolving danger posed by cyberattacks, while others wanted to better evidence their commitment to protecting their own security and that of their customers.  

Some respondents wanted added confidence that their security measures were robust and could scale in line with their growth ambitions. A key concern was better IP protection from global threats, as well as ensuring alignment with the security expectations of partners, customers and investors. Participants welcomed the opportunity to receive independent expert advice, plugging gaps in their own security knowledge.  

Positive post-service feedback   

The service has received positive feedback from participants who felt they have a better understanding of a wide range of security risks and can identify potential threats they hadn’t previously considered. 

A spokesperson for Evoralis Limited commented:

“Overall, our reviewer was very knowledgeable and has greatly supported us. The actions we take forward will help us to build strong governance, reduce vulnerabilities and improve resilience against both cyber and protective security threats." 

Other business owners said their enhanced security validation will support their growth ambitions, client confidence and competitive edge. The scheme also serves as a stepping stone towards advanced certifications for such international standards as ISO 27001. 

Time to apply 

The scheme seeks to help 500 UK SMEs, so other innovative early-stage UK tech firms are being encouraged to apply via the Innovate UK website, where they will also find more information about the service and qualifying criteria. 

Robert Shaw, Executive Director of Strategy and Performance at Innovate UK, said:

“Innovate UK is proud to be a partner in delivering security reviews for spin-outs and start-ups in critical sectors. If these innovators can protect valuable intellectual property and their competitive edge, and demonstrate their commitment to security to investors and customers, they will be better placed to realise their growth potential in the UK and globally.” 

Essential to business growth 

According to Richard Horne, CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre:

“SMEs power the UK’s innovation engine, but where ideas thrive, threats are never far behind. 

“States, state-backed competitors and cyber criminals target cutting-edge ideas and valuable data, exploiting gaps in cyber and protective security defences to launch attacks that can cripple organisations and steal their most sensitive innovations. 

“Building resilience is no longer optional — it’s essential for business growth and survival. I encourage SMEs across the UK to take advantage of the Secure Innovation Security Reviews scheme.” 

Innovative early-stage UK tech firms can apply via the Innovate UK website.