# Cyber Security Innovation Challenge

**Funder:** Research Ireland
**Deadline:** 19 January 2027
**Duration:** 24 months
**Eligible countries:** IE
**Official call:** https://www.researchireland.ie/funding/cyber-security/
**Last updated:** 18 Oct 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Developed in partnership with the National Cyber Security Centre, this challenge supports innovative research strengthening Ireland's cyber resilience and preparedness against evolving digital threats.

## Summary

The Cyber Security Innovation Challenge from Research Ireland funds 24-month research projects that strengthen Ireland's cyber resilience and preparedness against digital threats. Developed with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the call targets researchers at Irish institutions working on applied cybersecurity problems with national relevance.

## Who should apply

- Researchers based at eligible Irish research institutions
- Teams working on cybersecurity, digital resilience or threat preparedness
- Projects with potential relevance to national cyber infrastructure or policy
- Applicants able to engage with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) as a partner

## Key dates

- Deadline: 19 January 2027
- Project duration: 24 months

## Tips for applicants

- Frame the research around concrete national cyber resilience needs rather than general security research, the NCSC partnership signals a preference for applied, policy-relevant outcomes.
- Reference alignment with NCSC priorities explicitly in the proposal to strengthen the case for strategic fit.
- Since this is a challenge-based call, clarify the real-world threat or gap the project addresses rather than framing it as open-ended basic research.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who funds the Cyber Security Innovation Challenge?

It is funded by Research Ireland in partnership with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

### How long does the Cyber Security Innovation Challenge grant last?

Funded projects run for 24 months.

### Who is eligible to apply for the Cyber Security Innovation Challenge?

The call is open to researchers at eligible institutions in Ireland.

### When is the deadline for the Cyber Security Innovation Challenge?

The deadline is 19 January 2027.

---

Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/research-ireland-cyber-security-innovation-challenge-2027-01) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

**See which EU calls match your profile.** [Preview your matches in 30 seconds, no signup](https://grantsby.eu/demo?ref=llm_grant_md&grant=research-ireland-cyber-security-innovation-challenge-2027-01).