Book a free 30 minute consultation

UK businesses are focusing on cyber security spending for 2026 – here’s how to get started

The momentum is building. 85% of UK firms boosting their cyber budgets for 2026, moving from reactive panic to proactive protection.

Recent findings from PwC paint an encouraging picture. After a challenging year of high-profile breaches across every sector, UK organisations aren’t just wringing their hands – they’re opening their wallets and rolling up their sleeves. More than two-thirds are rethinking their entire cyber security investment strategies, with over half planning spending increases of 6% or more.

This isn’t just about throwing money at the problem. It’s about building genuine resilience.

The smart money is on fundamentals first

While headlines focus on AI threat hunting and quantum-resistant encryption, the real story is more practical: 61% of UK firms are prioritising employee training, recognising that technology alone won’t keep them safe.

This is where smart investment begins – and where Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions can help you build from solid foundations.

Start your journey with Cyber Essentials

If your organisation is part of that 85% ready to invest in cyber security, but you’re unsure where to start, we have good news: you don’t need to boil the ocean on day one.

Cyber Essentials certification is the perfect launchpad for businesses serious about security. This government-backed scheme covers five critical technical controls that prevent approximately 80% of common cyber attacks:

  • Firewalls and internet gateways
  • Secure configuration
  • User access control
  • Malware protection
  • Patch management

Think of it as your security foundation – affordable, achievable and immediately effective. Better yet, it demonstrates to clients, partners and insurers that you’re taking cyber security seriously.

How Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions can help

At Black Swan, we specialise in helping UK businesses navigate their cyber security journey – whether you’re just starting with Cyber Essentials or building advanced capabilities:

Cyber Essentials Certification & Support
We guide you through the entire certification process, from gap analysis to implementation to assessment, ensuring you achieve compliance efficiently.

Security Awareness Training
Your people are your first line of defence. Our engaging training programmes upskill your workforce to recognise and respond to evolving threats, including AI-powered attacks.

Risk Assessments & Strategy Development
We help you understand your unique threat landscape and build a security roadmap aligned with your business objectives and budget.

Incident Response Planning
Hope for the best, plan for the worst. We’ll help you develop robust incident response capabilities so you’re ready when – not if – an attack occurs.

 

The PwC research reveals something crucial: while spending is up, only 51% of UK organisations feel “very capable” of addressing a major cyber attack. The gap between investment and capability is where we excel.

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to take the first step.

Whether you’re pursuing Cyber Essentials for the first time, preparing for Cyber Essentials Plus, or building a comprehensive security programme, Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions provides the expertise, support, and practical guidance to turn investment into genuine resilience.

Ready to join the 85% taking cyber security seriously?

Contact Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions today to discuss how we can help you start your journey with Cyber Essentials certification and build a security programme that protects what matters most.

Kevin Walker, Founder of Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions

Written by: Kevin Walker

Founder, Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions

Based in Chesterfield, Kevin has over 20 years’ experience helping schools, care providers and small businesses meet DfE and Cyber Essentials standards. He’s passionate about calm, compliance-led cyber security and supporting local communities across Derbyshire and South Yorkshire.

View LinkedIn Profile ↗

Recent Posts

Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats - Subscribe to the Black Swan Cyber Security Newsletter

Protect your business with the latest cyber threat insights and practical data protection tips. Subscribe for expert advice tailored to small businesses, covering password security, ransomware prevention, and cyber compliance.

Stay connected with Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions and keep your company ahead in the fight against cybercrime.