The Principle-Investigator (PI) must be a researcher from one of the seven CyberFocus partner HEIs (Cumbria; Lancaster; Liverpool; Manchester; MMU; Salford; ULan). The PI must be employed at that institution for the duration of the project.

• Researchers employed at one of the CyberFocus partner HEIs can also be a Co-Investigator on a project.
• Researchers from HEIs not in the CyberFocus consortium can be a Co-Investigator on a project – but cannot be the PI on a project.

• Applicants must collaborate with an external, non-HEI partner. The partner should be based in the North West, or demonstrate they have clear regional impact.

There are five available Funding Streams – projects must clearly align to one funding stream and meet the requirements of that specific funding stream.

Projects must align with at least one of the following CyberFocus themes (projects can align with multiple themes):

• Elevating Cyber Supply Chain Trust & Confidence
• Growth in Sustainable Cyber & Innovation Expertise
• Enhancing Cross Cluster Coordination & Interconnections

Projects should also demonstrate alignment to at least one of the thematic areas outlined in the CyBOK framework.

Projects should demonstrate relevance to at least one regional strategy:

• Going for Growth: Cumbria’s Economic Strategy 2025-2045

• Together we are Greater Manchester: Strategy 2025-2035
• Lancashire Innovation Plan 2023-2028
• Liverpool City Region Plan for Prosperity

Further details on these strategies are provided in the application guidance notes.

The CyberFocus Funding Application Form is available online. An offline copy is also available for reference and guidance, but please note that all applications must be submitted through the online form.

Applications are assessed using a scoring method based on defined evaluation criteria by the CyberFocus Evaluation Panel, which includes both academic and civic representatives.

• It is anticipated that applicants will be notified of the panel’s decision by June 2026.

• Successful applicants will receive feedback and notification of next steps required.
• Unsuccessful applicants will receive feedback and are encouraged to review this, liaise with their institutional contacts and, if appropriate, resubmit revised applications in future funding calls.

Successful applicants must include confirmation of the following before funding will be released:

• Head of Department or equivalent approval
• Institutional research ethics approval
• Completion of HERSA Export Controls training by the PI (more information available when project team receives offer of project funding – there is no cost involved in this training).

The CyberFocus team is happy to discuss potential proposals ahead of application submission.

If you have any questions about your proposal or eligibility, contact the CyberFocus team at:
cyberfocus@lancaster.ac.uk Please use the following header in any email about the funding call “CyberFocus Funding Round 2 Enquiry”

Before sending your enquiry, please check the Frequently Asked Questions document.