New national innovation node for cyber security

The node is coordinated by RISE and will bring together different actors and form a platform to identify needs and initiate project and activities in research and innovation based on a common national agenda. It should also be a natural gathering point for getting in touch with cyber security competencies in Sweden, which today are spread out in various places.

- A connected society and industry have new vulnerabilities. It is crucial to have the ability to address them proactively. The node will mobilize actors to stimulate the development of new innovative solutions that strengthen digital security, says Darja Isaksson, director general of Vinnova.

An important aim of the investment is to strengthen the competitiveness of Swedish industry.

- When we build the connected and digital society, there are exciting research challenges in cyber security, both in terms of the development of mobile networks beyond 5G, the Internet of Things and the ecosystem in general. The node is a valuable initiative to promote increased collaboration, competence building and strengthen research in cyber security solutions for the future, says Eva Fogelström, research director in security at Ericsson.

- For the industry with activities in Sweden, digitalisation absolutely crucial for competitiveness. Digitalisation creates endless possibilities but also gives rise to vulnerabilities. The digital transformation therefore needs to include a clear security perspective. The node is an excellent initiative to bring together different actors with a common need to strengthen digital security in new ways, says Patrik Sandgren, business policy expert with responsibility for digitalisation at Teknikföretagen.

In addition to RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden), the steering group consists of MSB, DIGG, Teknikföretagen, SOFF (Security and Defense Companies), Combient, Ericsson, the academy network SWITS, Mobile Heights and Simovits Consulting. The reference group includes SwedenICT, the University of Skövde, Swedsoft, SACS (Swedish Association and Civil Security), Clavister and Truesec. Vinnova is involved in financing the initiative.

The Swedish research and innovation node for cyber security complements the national center for cyber security that the government has decided on, which will strengthen Sweden's ability to prevent, detect and manage cyber threats.

On 4 December, the node will be inaugurated at a digital event in which, among others, Minister of Trade and Industry Ibrahim Baylan will take part.