Building resilience: Cybersecurity innovation in Kista
Cybersecurity is a key part of the modern digital landscape. As technology evolves, so do cyber threats—making security a top priority for businesses, governments, and researchers alike. With threats becoming more sophisticated, the need for robust security measures is greater than ever.
In Kista, these challenges are being met with action. Home to a dense concentration of cybersecurity experts, research institutions, and pioneering tech companies, the area plays a fundamental role in advancing Sweden’s digital security. Here, local organizations collaborate to develop, test, and implement cutting-edge security solutions that help protect businesses and society from emerging threats.
These efforts take different forms—from testing environments that simulate cyber threats to national initiatives helping businesses build stronger digital defenses. Below, we take a closer look at some of the key projects driving cybersecurity innovation in Kista.
H2 – Cyber Range: Test bed for cybersecurity
Cyber Range is a RISE-led test bed where companies and organizations can build fully controlled virtual environments to assess, test, and secure IT systems. It provides tools for testing new system components, ensuring correct implementation, and identifying vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Beyond technical testing, Cyber Range also provides a controlled setting where organizations can evaluate security routines and response strategies under realistic conditions. As digital threats evolve, test environments like this help organizations stay ahead of cyber risks.
Sweden’s Civil Minister Erik Slottner recently visited Kista and Cyber Range to get a firsthand look at these efforts. During his visit, he emphasized the growing need for proactive defenses to protect both public and private sectors. He also highlighted that Sweden’s cybersecurity progress depends on collaboration—bringing together industry, research institutions, and policymakers to strengthen national resilience.
H2 – Sweden Secure Tech Hub: Making cybersecurity accessible
For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), cybersecurity can feel overwhelming—full of technical complexity, regulatory challenges, and financial barriers. Unlike larger companies with dedicated security teams, these businesses often lack the resources to build strong digital defences. Yet they are just as vulnerable to attacks.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub helps bridge this security gap. Led by Kista Science City and five other science parks, this national initiative provides targeted support, equipping businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen their cybersecurity. Through its programs, Sweden Secure Tech Hub provides:
- Need analysis – A structured evaluation that helps businesses identify security gaps and areas for improvement.
- Expert advice – Professional guidance tailored to an SME’s specific security challenges and industry requirements.
- Testing – Controlled cybersecurity assessments that detect vulnerabilities before they become serious threats.
- Networking – Opportunities to collaborate with cybersecurity specialists, technology providers, and other businesses navigating similar security challenges.
By making cybersecurity expertise more accessible and actionable, Sweden Secure Tech Hub ensures that digital security isn’t just for large corporations—it’s within reach for every business that needs to protect itself and its customers.
H2 – Basic Cybersecurity: A hands-on course for SMEs
To help SMEs translate cybersecurity knowledge into action, Kista Science City is co-organizing a free, instructor-led training program designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses. Developed by Linköping University and Linköping Science Park, the course provides guidance on preventing and responding to cyber threats.
Basic Cybersecurity equips businesses with practical skills to integrate security into their daily operations. Over four workshops, participants will learn how to:
- Identify cybersecurity risks that could threaten their business.
- Apply key security principles to prevent attacks before they happen.
- Develop a security-first mindset across their organization.
- Respond effectively to incidents to minimize damage and recovery time.
The course is held on-site in Kista, offering an interactive learning environment with real-world applications. Fully funded through Sweden Secure Tech Hub, it is free of charge, with applications open until 11 March, 2025.
Limited spots available—Read more and apply today!
For questions, contact Sakarias Strand, Kista Science City: sakarias.strand@kista.com