Infosecurity Europe has announced the launch of its first Cyber Startup Programme, a new initiative designed to support early-stage cybersecurity companies and strengthen the UK and European cyber innovation ecosystem.
The programme will debut at Infosecurity Europe 2026, taking place from 2–4 June at ExCeL London, and will introduce a dedicated show-floor experience bringing together startup founders, investors, and ecosystem partners. Organisers said the initiative reflects the event’s increasing focus on innovation and early-stage growth within the cybersecurity sector.
Central to the programme is the Cyber Startups Zone, a new exhibition area designed to give emerging cybersecurity businesses a platform to demonstrate technologies, present ideas, and connect directly with potential customers, partners, and investors. The zone will sit alongside tailored conference content, structured networking opportunities, and a live startup competition.
The Cyber Startup Programme has been developed to support companies at different stages of growth, from early validation through to scale. Tailored tickets will be available for startup founders, investors, and ecosystem enablers, with a focus on helping businesses become channel-ready, build investor relationships, and identify emerging market trends.
Brad Maule-ffinch, Event Director at Infosecurity Europe, said: “Supporting early-stage innovation is essential to the future of cybersecurity, and being able to play a meaningful role in spotlighting upcoming innovative and disruptive technologies is a role we are keen to foster and grow. With the launch of the Cyber Startup Programme, Infosecurity Europe is creating new opportunities for startups to gain visibility, connect with investors and buyers and use it as a platform to grow too.”
The programme is being delivered in collaboration with UK Cyber Flywheel, with a dedicated day of founder- and investor-focused activity scheduled for Tuesday 2 June. This will include networking sessions, curated content, and the live Infosecurity Europe Cyber Startup Award 2026.
As part of the award competition, shortlisted startups will pitch their businesses live on stage in front of senior industry leaders, investors, and buyers, with the winner announced during the event. The prize package includes a free exhibition stand at Infosecurity Europe 2027, expert PR support from Origin Communications, and a brand consultancy and Future-Brand Workshop package from Dusted.
To enter the competition, businesses are required to submit a written entry of up to 1,000 words outlining their company, product, and competitive differentiation.
Munawar Valiji, CISO and Cyber Advisor representing UK Cyber Flywheel, said: “Cybersecurity is crucial for the UK to protect its critical infrastructure, economy and citizens from increasingly sophisticated state-sponsored and criminal cyberattacks. Through the Cyber Flywheel, and in partnership with CISOs, founders, investors and government, we are focused on building a better connected, stronger and more resilient cyber ecosystem across the UK and beyond.”
In parallel, Infosecurity Europe will also host a Founder Conference Track, offering practical guidance on topics such as go-to-market strategy, brand building, and long-term scaling. The event will also feature the Cyber Innovation Zone, delivered in partnership with Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, highlighting UK-based micro, small, and medium-sized cybersecurity businesses.
Registration for Infosecurity Europe 2026 is now open. Attendance is free until 12 May, after which tickets will be priced at £49, granting access to the exhibition floor and conference theatres.
