Why Cyber Essentials is a Business Growth Tool for SMEs
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a business requirement. Companies now demand proof that their suppliers and partners can protect sensitive data before signing contracts.
That’s why Cyber Essentials Certification has become a critical trust badge for winning contracts in the UK, especially for SMEs. It’s a government-backed cybersecurity certification that proves your business is secure against 80% of common cyber threats.
But here’s what many SMEs don’t realize:
Cyber Essentials is not just about security—it’s a business growth tool.
It can open doors to high-value contracts, strengthen client trust, and give you a competitive edge.
What is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed cybersecurity certification scheme to help businesses protect themselves against the most common cyber attacks.
There are two levels of certification:
- Cyber Essentials (Self-Assessment) – Ensures your business meets basic cybersecurity standards.
- Cyber Essentials Plus – Includes independent testing and verification of your security practices.
At Technology Solutions Central, we help SMEs achieve Cyber Essentials certification smoothly—enabling them to secure contracts and protect their business without unnecessary stress.
5 Ways Cyber Essentials Certification Helps You Win Contracts
1. It’s Mandatory for UK Government & Public Sector Contracts
Want to work with the UK government, NHS, MOD, or local councils?
You cannot bid for many contracts without Cyber Essentials.
Example:
A small IT consulting firm in London missed a £150,000 government contract because they didn’t have Cyber Essentials. After obtaining certification within 3 weeks, they secured a new £200,000 deal the next month.
Key Takeaway: Cyber Essentials is a must-have if government contracts are part of your strategy.
2. Clients Trust Certified Suppliers More
Data breaches through suppliers and third parties have made businesses more cautious.
Many companies prefer or exclusively work with Cyber Essentials-certified suppliers.
Certification tells your clients:
✅ You take cybersecurity seriously.
✅ Their data is safe with you.
✅ You reduce their supply chain security risk.
Example:
A recruitment firm in Manchester lost a £40,000 client deal because the company only worked with Cyber Essentials-certified partners.
Once certified, they secured £100,000 in new contracts within 6 months.
Key Takeaway: Cyber Essentials builds trust—trusted businesses win contracts.
3. Stand Out Against Competitors
When two businesses offer similar services, certification often becomes the deciding factor.
SMEs that display their Cyber Essentials badge immediately stand out as credible and compliant partners.
Example:
An IT solutions provider in Birmingham won a £60,000 contract because their competitor lacked Cyber Essentials. The client chose them because they demonstrated security compliance.
Key Takeaway: Certification is your edge over competitors.
4. Helps Meet GDPR & Industry Compliance Standards
If you handle personal data, process payments, or work with sensitive information, Cyber Essentials supports your compliance with:
✅ GDPR (UK/EU Data Protection Laws)
✅ PCI DSS (Payment Security Standards)
✅ ISO 27001 (Information Security Standards)
Example:
A digital agency handling customer data avoided a £25,000 fine from the ICO because Cyber Essentials helped prove they had basic security measures after an attempted breach.
Key Takeaway: Cyber Essentials reduces legal risks and strengthens your compliance posture.
5. Reduces Cyber Insurance Costs
Insurance providers value Cyber Essentials certification because it reduces your cyber risk.
Some insurers even require it before offering coverage.
Others offer discounted premiums to certified businesses.
Example:
A small e-commerce company in Leeds reduced their annual cyber insurance premium by 30% after becoming Cyber Essentials certified.
Key Takeaway: Certification saves money and strengthens your protection.
Why SMEs Can’t Afford to Ignore Cyber Essentials
60% of SMEs close within 6 months of a cyber attack.
43% of cyber attacks target SMEs because hackers see them as easy targets.
Certification is not just about winning contracts—it’s about survival.
How to Get Cyber Essentials Certification (Fast & Stress-Free)
At TechSolutionsCentral, we help businesses like yours get certified quickly and efficiently:
1. Cyber Risk Assessment – Identify gaps in your current security.
2. Security Improvements – Fix any weaknesses to meet certification requirements.
3. Certification Audit – Submit your application and get certified.
Typical Timeline: 2-4 weeks for SMEs.
Pricing: Starts from £1,500 (varies by business size).
Ready to Win More Contracts? Get Cyber Essentials Certified Today
If you want to secure more contracts, increase client trust, and protect your business, Cyber Essentials is your next step.
🔹 We can help.
🔹 Let’s get you certified—stress-free.
📞 Book a Free Cyber Risk Assessment Today:
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Don’t wait until a client asks or a breach happens.
Be proactive. Get Cyber Essentials Certification with TechSolutionsCentral—and win more contracts with confidence.
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🔹 Trusted by SMEs across the UK.
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