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About the project

Building a fairer way into cyber security

CyberMatch is a nine-month initiative delivered across Greater Manchester and the West Midlands. The project is building a shared Cyber Skills Framework and a digital matching platform that lets employers hire for hard-to-fill cyber roles based on demonstrated skills rather than CVs or qualifications.

We are working to grow and diversify the UK's cyber workforce by removing the structural barriers that keep capable, non-traditional candidates out of the sector.

Why CyberMatch exists

The problem

Thousands of cyber security roles sit unfilled while capable candidates are locked out by CV and qualification-gated hiring.

Our approach

CyberMatch combines a shared skills taxonomy, a digital matching platform, and trial placements to connect employers with talent based on proven ability.

Competence over credentials

We believe people should be hired for what they can demonstrably do - not for the qualifications they hold.

Built for everyone

The platform is designed by default to reach people from underrepresented backgrounds in cyber security.

A shared language

Our Cyber Skills Framework is cross-referenced against recognised industry models, creating a common language employers and candidates can both trust.

Beyond the pilot

Delivered across Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, CyberMatch is built as a model for wider, national adoption.

CyberMatch consortium

The CyberMatch project is delivered by a consortium of partners led by CAPSLOCK. WMCH (West Midlands Cyber Hub) is a regional partner for the West Midlands, with support from Cyber Tzar and Cybec Consulting. DiSH Manchester (Digital Security Hub) offers regional support for Greater Manchester.

The project is funded by the UK Government through Innovate UK's TechLocal programme.

Funded by UK Government - Tech First

Get involved

Employers

Help shape the future of cyber security hiring.  Share your experience at one of our employer workshops, or join our platform waiting list.

Get involved

Candidates

Become an early adopter of CyberMatch. Get first access to skills-based job matching based on what you can do, not just your CV.

Join the candidate waiting list