UK SMEs can now save 75% on Cyber Essentials certification thanks to a new £2.4 million government funding scheme announced in November 2026.
Eligible businesses could pay just £80–£125 plus VAT, instead of the usual £320–£500 plus VAT, to achieve this recognised cyber security certification.
However, the funding is limited, available on a first-come, first-served basis, and could run out before the March 2027 deadline.
Impact IT Solutions can help your business prepare for Cyber Essentials certification quickly, so you can take advantage of the funding while it’s available.
What Is the New Cyber Essentials Government Funding?
The UK government’s Cyber Essentials First Step Fund aims to help approximately 6,000 small and medium-sized businesses improve their cyber security.
The scheme offers:
- 75% off Cyber Essentials assessment and certification fees.
- Savings of £240–£375, depending on business size.
- Funding available until 31 March 2027, or until the allocation is exhausted.
- Support for eligible UK micro, small and medium-sized businesses.
A separate government scheme also provides fully funded certification and Cyber Advisor support for selected SME suppliers.
Is Your Business Eligible for Cyber Essentials Funding?
To qualify for the 75% Cyber Essentials discount, your business must generally:
- Be a UK micro, small or medium-sized organisation.
- Be applying for a new Cyber Essentials certificate.
- Not have held Cyber Essentials certification within the previous four years.
- Apply while government funding remains available.
With funding allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, businesses should act quickly to avoid missing out.
Why Is Cyber Essentials Certification Important?
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed certification that helps protect businesses against common cyber threats, including ransomware, malware and unauthorised access.
Certification focuses on five essential security controls:
- Firewalls
- Secure configuration
- Security update management
- User access control
- Malware protection
Achieving Cyber Essentials can help your business improve cyber security, build customer confidence and meet security requirements for certain contracts.
With the new 75% government discount, it’s an excellent opportunity to strengthen your business’s cyber resilience at a reduced cost.
How Can Impact IT Solutions Help You Get Cyber Essentials Certified?
Preparing for Cyber Essentials certification can feel complicated, especially if you’re unsure whether your existing IT systems meet the requirements.
Impact IT Solutions can help simplify and speed up the preparation process by:
- Reviewing your current cyber security measures.
- Identifying gaps against Cyber Essentials requirements.
- Helping implement the necessary security improvements.
- Preparing your business for the certification assessment.
- Guiding you through the next steps while funding is available.
Getting your systems ready early can help avoid unnecessary delays during certification.