Request for Applications: Enhancing the NCC Network

Deadline: 14-Jan-2027

The Enhancing the NCC Network grant supports National Coordination Centres (NCCs) in EU and EEA countries in strengthening cybersecurity capacity, fostering innovation, developing skills, and increasing awareness across the European cybersecurity ecosystem. The initiative aims to continue and expand operational support for NCCs so they can respond to evolving cybersecurity challenges, strengthen national and regional capabilities, and promote the adoption of state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions. With a total budget of €11 million, individual grants range from €2 million to €3 million. Eligible National Coordination Centres can use the funding for activities that strengthen the European Cybersecurity Competence Community, support cybersecurity education and awareness, encourage innovation, and facilitate collaboration among public authorities, businesses, researchers, start-ups, SMEs, and civil society. The application deadline is 14 January 2027.

About the Enhancing the NCC Network Grant

National Coordination Centres play an important role in strengthening cybersecurity across Europe. The Enhancing the NCC Network initiative is designed to support NCCs in carrying out their national and regional responsibilities while contributing to wider European cybersecurity objectives. The program encourages cooperation between NCCs and stakeholders across the cybersecurity ecosystem, helping connect national priorities with EU-level strategies and initiatives. The initiative also promotes the uptake and dissemination of innovative cybersecurity products and services, particularly solutions developed by European SMEs and start-ups. What Is the Purpose of the Grant? The grant aims to strengthen the capacity of National Coordination Centres and improve cooperation throughout Europe’s cybersecurity ecosystem.

Key objectives include:

- Strengthening national and regional cybersecurity capacities. - Supporting innovation in cybersecurity. - Promoting cybersecurity awareness and safer digital behaviours. - Developing cybersecurity skills and education. - Strengthening the European Cybersecurity Competence Community. - Encouraging cross-border cybersecurity collaboration. - Supporting SMEs and start-ups developing innovative cybersecurity solutions. - Promoting the uptake of market-ready cybersecurity products and services. - Supporting the emergence of cybersecurity incubators and accelerators. - Connecting higher education institutions with industry and public-sector partners. - Supporting implementation of the Cyber Skills Academy. Role of National Coordination Centres NCCs serve as important national contact points within the European cybersecurity ecosystem. Under the initiative, NCCs can support cooperation between national stakeholders and European cybersecurity structures.

Their activities may include:

- Acting as national contact points. - Providing expertise to the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC). - Supporting participation in cross-border cybersecurity projects. - Connecting civil society with cybersecurity initiatives. - Engaging industry, start-ups, SMEs, and academic communities. - Providing technical assistance to relevant stakeholders. - Creating synergies between national, regional, and European cybersecurity strategies. - Supporting the implementation of cybersecurity skills initiatives. - Providing financial support to third parties where permitted. Strengthening the European Cybersecurity Competence Community The initiative seeks to strengthen the Cybersecurity Competence Community by increasing participation from relevant organisations and stakeholders. NCCs can help entities engage with EU-wide cybersecurity activities and support the registration and participation of relevant organisations within the European cybersecurity ecosystem. This can improve cooperation between research institutions, companies, public bodies, and other cybersecurity stakeholders. Supporting SMEs and Start-Ups A significant component of the initiative is supporting the adoption and dissemination of innovative cybersecurity solutions developed by SMEs and start-ups. NCCs may provide financial support to third parties, particularly SMEs, where this contributes to the objectives of the action. This mechanism is intended to accelerate the uptake of market-ready cybersecurity products and services and help innovative European solutions reach wider markets. Cybersecurity Awareness and Safer Digital Behaviour The grant places emphasis on improving cybersecurity awareness among: - EU citizens. - Businesses. - Organisations. - Other relevant stakeholders. NCCs can organise awareness campaigns and other activities designed to promote safer digital behaviours. Increasing awareness can help individuals and organisations better understand cybersecurity risks and adopt more secure practices. Cybersecurity Education and Skills Development The initiative also seeks to increase the number of students and young professionals pursuing cybersecurity education and careers.

Possible activities include:

- Training courses. - Cybersecurity boot camps. - Cyber exercises. - Skills development activities. - Awareness programmes. - Educational initiatives connected to cybersecurity careers. These activities support the development of the European cybersecurity workforce and help address skills needs across the sector. Implementation of the Cyber Skills Academy NCCs can contribute to the implementation of the Cyber Skills Academy. This may involve activities that encourage education, training, skills development, and career pathways in cybersecurity. The focus on students and young professionals is intended to strengthen the future cybersecurity talent pipeline across Europe. Training Courses, Boot Camps and Cyber Exercises The grant encourages practical cybersecurity skills development through activities such as training courses, boot camps, and cyber exercises. These activities can provide part