National Coordination Centre (NCC-EE)

Lauri Tankler, head of the department, is responsible for coordinating research and development at RIA.

In June 2021, the European Union regulation establishing the European Cyber Competence Centre (ECCC) and the network of national coordination centres (NCC) came into force. These two structures are designed to support the development and innovation of the cybersecurity industry in Europe. ECCC will operate as an institution in Romania and direct investments for the development of the European cyber security industry (and community) in cooperation with national coordination centres.

The aim of the regulation is, on the one hand, to develop and implement measures (including funding) that would help European cyber security companies and research institutions operating in the field to develop and bring new cyber security products to market. On the other hand, it is necessary to find ways for the knowledge (and products) of cyber security research institutions and industry to reach market participants. Special attention has been paid to European small and medium-sized companies.

• We increase the competitiveness of the cyber security sector (with a focus on research and development)

We spread the knowledge gained from research and development activities in the field of Estonian cyber security both in Estonia and through the network of coordination centres in other parts of Europe. We support the participation of Estonian cyber companies in international R&D projects. In the pilot project, we support the research-based activities of companies in the sector (including start-ups).
 

• We promote the cyber resilience of Estonian society (with a focus on small and medium-sized companies and institutions)

We raise the awareness of Estonian companies and institutions about cyber threats and the possibilities of how to better protect organisations from cyber threats in cooperation with other parties in the ecosystem. We implement the digital revolution pilot project to increase the contribution of the private sector to its own cyber security.

• We ensure the next generation and increase the number of existing specialists in the field

We find opportunities for all ages and educational levels to incorporate cybersecurity learning outcomes into existing curricula. We work with partners to increase the popularity of the field and will motivate an additional 1,000 girls and women to join the field in the pilot project.

• We monitor and support the development of the cyber security ecosystem in Estonia

We promote communication between service providers, consumers, the research community, and other parties, providing the necessary platforms both physically (events, seminars, and conferences) and virtually. Based on the experience of the NCCs of Estonia and other member states, we find opportunities to participate and encourage the community to participate in projects promoting the development of the Estonian and European cyber sector.