Call for Startups: Join New Cybersecurity Incubation Programmes

YES!Delft, Europe’s leading tech incubator and accelerator, in collaboration with the Municipality of The Hague and InnovationQuarter, are launching new cybersecurity incubation programmes aimed at fostering the growth of innovative startups in the cybersecurity sector. These programmes provide a unique opportunity for startups to develop and scale their cybersecurity solutions, with the goal of enhancing digital security on both a national and international level.

The cybersecurity validation and acceleration programmes provide startups with access to:

• An extensive network of partners, including the existing offerings from YES!Delft.
• Expertise and mentorship by leading cybersecurity experts.
• Financing opportunities: support in obtaining investments.
• Market validation and growth: workshops and guidance to help startups further develop their products and gain market access.

The programmes include tailored tracks for every growth stage.

1. Validation Programme (problem-solution fit)

- For early-stage startups exploring their beachhead market (initial target market). 

- No established market presence needed.

- No legal entity required.

- Perfect for founders with innovative technology (software or hardware with IP potential) who need guidance to validate their market fit and business model.

2. Acceleration Programme (product-market fit)

- For advanced startups with market traction and a clear growth strategy.

- Must have an established legal entity.

- Demonstrated traction: paid pilots or paying customers.

- Suitable for startups seeking to scale rapidly.

Philip Meijer, Senior Account Manager Cybersecurity at InnovationQuarter: “Cybersecurity innovators and startups from around the world, now based in the Netherlands, are invited to participate in this essential incubation programme. Participation provides access to unparalleled expertise and indispensable tools to help your solutions grow into industry-leading players,”

 Registration

Startups specializing in cybersecurity and looking to scale their solutions can now apply for the cybersecurity programmes via the YES!Delft website. The Validation Programme starts in May 2025, the Accelerator starts in April 2025. The cybersecurity sessions & workshops will be held at the HSD Campus in The Hague, the other part of the programme will take place at Yes!Delft in Delft.

Initiative

The Netherlands boasts a robust cybersecurity ecosystem with several strong hubs. The Hague, recognized as the international city of peace, justice, and security, provides with the HSD Campus an optimal setting for the development of cybersecurity innovations aimed at safeguarding businesses, governments, and individuals from cyber threats.

Saïda van Kalsbeek, Cybersecurity Programme Manager at the Municipality of The Hague: “Startups are at the forefront of innovation and economic growth. Through the YES!Delft programme, combined with our unique cybersecurity network in The Hague, we provide them with a solid foundation. We are proud to contribute as co-organizers of this programme,”

Ras Lalmy, Managing Director of YES!Delft: “By operating at the heart of the Dutch cybersecurity ecosystem, this programme enables companies to develop innovative solutions critical to protecting our global digital infrastructure,”

The cybersecurity programmes are supported by, among others, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, dcypher, TNO, the Ministry of Justice and Security, ROM-NL, Security Delta (HSD), HSD Campus, TU Delft, Top Sector ICT, and are in line with the vision and approach of the KIA Security and KIA Digitalization partnership.