Future Growth Prospects for the UK Cyber Security Sector & the Role of Accelerators as Innovation Support Mechanisms

Abstract

It’s the purpose of this paper to analyse the current state of growth in the UK cyber security sector and the role of accelerators and incubators in facilitating the development of a strong cyber ecosystem. The paper analyses current growth figures (2020-2022) relating to the industry followed by an explanation of how accelerators and incubators work. It then considers the problems of measuring the efficacy of high tech accelerators and the importance of ecosystem effects and other external variables and how they may cause regional growth disparities. Learning on the international best practices, an overview of what drives innovation success in the US and Israel before considering the components that are likely to ensure a successful accelerator is offered. This is followed by a set of recommendations relating to public policies going forward.