Cyber in Lancashire

Lancashire: Securing the UK's Digital Future

Lancashire is quickly establishing itself as a premier destination for cybersecurity investment and digital innovation in the UK. With the establishment of the National Cyber Force (NCF) in Samlesbury, the region is not only enhancing national security but is also generating extensive economic growth and technological development.

Backed by top-tier universities, a dynamic network of tech firms, and forward-thinking public sector leadership, Lancashire offers a compelling proposition for businesses looking to operate in a secure, innovation-driven environment.

Whether you're seeking a strategic location, research partnerships, or a skilled workforce, Cyber in Lancashire delivers long-term value, resilience, and growth potential.

The Lancashire Cyber Partnership

Collaboration at the Core of Cyber Growth

The Lancashire Cyber Partnership represents a unified effort to make the county a national leader in cybersecurity. This strategic alliance brings together stakeholders across government, academia, industry, and defence to drive innovation, commercialisation, and inclusive growth.

Key collaborators include the National Cyber Force, Lancashire County Council, Lancaster University, University of Lancashire, and private-sector leaders in cyber and defence technology.

This partnership ensures cohesive strategy execution, maximised investment impact, and a strong, supportive environment for new and established cyber businesses.

National Cyber Force (NCF) Investment

Transformational Investment: The National Cyber Force in Lancashire

The arrival of the NCF in Lancashire marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity. As the new headquarters of one of the UK’s most significant national security initiatives, the NCF will be a cornerstone of the North West Cyber Corridor and a driver of innovation, economic uplift, and international attention.

Key Benefits:

• National profile for the region in digital defence
• Creation of high-value cyber and engineering jobs
• Long-term demand for supply chain collaboration
• Enhanced appeal to global investors in secure technologies

Locating your cyber business near the NCF unlocks access to unique partnerships and a highly secure innovation ecosystem.

Talent & Skills Development

Cyber Skills Pipeline: A Future-Proof Workforce

Lancashire’s approach to digital skills development is strategic and inclusive. We work with industry and academia to ensure the workforce is equipped for today’s cyber threats and tomorrow’s technological advances.

Our local universities are producing hundreds of graduates each year in STEM and digital disciplines, supported by:

• Cyber and Data Bootcamps
• T-levels and vocational programmes
• Funded retraining for mature learners
• Degree apprenticeships aligned to employer needs

Whether you’re hiring talent or seeking partnerships in training, Lancashire’s cyber skills offer is comprehensive, responsive, and future-focused.

Research & Innovation

Pioneering Cybersecurity Research and Applied Innovation

Lancashire’s universities are internationally recognised for excellence in cybersecurity and data science. Lancaster University holds the prestigious Centre of Excellence status from the National Cyber Security Centre, placing it among the UK's top cyber institutions.

Our innovation ecosystem focuses on:

• Secure by design infrastructure
• Cyber-physical resilience
• Digital trust frameworks
• AI-driven threat detection

With shared labs, knowledge exchange initiatives, and a thriving start-up culture, Lancashire is where research meets real-world impact.

Business Support & Investment Opportunities

Investing in Cyber Business Growth

Lancashire is committed to supporting the cyber economy with tools, funding, and expertise that accelerate success. We provide bespoke investment support through:

• Innovation grants and venture capital introductions
• Business incubators and growth accelerators
• Access to defence procurement pipelines
• Regulatory and legal advice for secure tech businesses

Investors and entrepreneurs benefit from a business-friendly culture and dedicated cyber business advisors ready to guide you through every stage of growth.

Strategic Locations for Cyber Businesses

Cyber businesses locating in Lancashire enjoy prime real estate, cutting-edge facilities, and strategic positioning at the core of the North West Cyber Corridor.

Key Sites:

• Samlesbury Enterprise Zone: Home to defence and aerospace giants
• Preston Digital District: City centre development focused on digital tech and flexible workspaces
• Lancaster Innovation Campus: Co-located with academia and start-ups

Each location offers high-speed digital infrastructure, local authority support, and proximity to talent and research.

Quality of Life & Connectivity

Attracting and Retaining World-Class Talent

Lancashire offers a uniquely balanced lifestyle that appeals to today’s digital workforce. From the Forest of Bowland to the Ribble Valley, our region combines affordability with beauty, connectivity, and opportunity.

Benefits:

• Lower cost of living vs UK average
• Fast rail access to Manchester, London, and Scotland
• Excellent schools and higher education institutions

• A growing cultural, culinary, and digital scene

North West Cyber Corridor

Lancashire’s Role in the North West Cyber Corridor

Lancashire is a key anchor in the North West Cyber Corridor—one of the UK’s fastest-growing digital and defence clusters. This initiative connects Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Cheshire, and Cumbria, providing critical mass, collaborative R&D, and a national platform for growth.

Being part of this corridor enhances visibility, resilience, and recruitment potential, and offers regional supply chain advantages in both civil and defence digital innovation