Cyber Resilience Hackathon
Spot, stop and protect against cyber attacks
Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover both hit the headlines last year following major cyber attacks that cost each company millions of pounds and an untold amount in reputational damage.
Made Smarter – the finance and support programme that helps North East manufacturers adopt new digital technology – has joined forces with Sunderland Software City and Punk Security to deliver a free fringe event at this year’s TechNExt exploring cyber security and how you can protect your business from similar attacks.
Open to businesses from any sector, you’re invited to join us at Newcastle University’s Stephenson Building on Tuesday 16 June as cyber resilience specialists Punk Security walk us through a real-life cyber attack.
They’ll share:
- examples of incidents that have affected businesses in our area
- highlight practical steps you can take to better protect yourself.
Cyber security expert (and hacker), Simon Gurney MSc – CTO and founder Punk Security – has a wealth of experience and is specialised in integrating security at all levels from the ground up.
Simon is a seasoned speaker who has presented at some of the most well-known and respected cyber conferences globally. His career spans military service in the Royal Air Force, public and private sector organisations in infrastructure, security and DevSecOps positions.
You’ll come away with knowledge and skills to keep your business safe online and and across your digital networks.
If you’re a business owner or responsible for IT in our organisation, this event is for you.
About Made Smarter
Made Smarter helps manufacturers in the North East increase profits, improve efficiency and grow by investing in digital technology, people and processes.
Open to SMEs (under 250 employees) working in the manufacturing and advanced manufacturing sectors, businesses that take part in Made Smarter benefit from:
- Expert support to create a digital roadmap
- Access to fully funded workshops or digital skills courses with other manufacturers
- Grant funding to invest in new technology and software
- Fully funded Digital Intern Placements to support with digital projects
Advanced Manufacturing is one of the growth-driving sectors in the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s Local Growth Plan, which outlines the need to increase tech adoption to improve productivity and competitiveness.
The manufacturers of tomorrow use technology to streamline their processes – they are faster, more responsive, and more efficient. Ultimately, they make better products for less. Made Smarter helps manufacturing businesses secure a competitive edge.
Click the link below to register.
| Date | 9:15am on 16 Jun 2026 to 3:00pm on 16 Jun 2026 |
|---|---|
| Venue | The Stephenson Building, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU |
| Cost | Free |
| URL | Find More Information Here |