• CREST launches its CAMP program to boost global cybersecurity.
• CREST CAMP, funded by the UK, provides mentorship and training.

CREST is stepping up its efforts to support and improve cybersecurity service providers globally with the launch of its Cyber Accelerated Maturity Programme (CREST CAMP). This project intends to help organisations in various regions improve their cybersecurity capabilities, particularly in nations where the demand for advanced cybersecurity services is increasing.

What is CREST?

CREST represents the global cybersecurity industry and has been working since 2006 to raise the standards of service providers and professionals in the field. The organisation accredits approximately 370 member companies across various countries and certifies thousands of cybersecurity specialists worldwide through rigorous examinations.

CREST’s work, in conjunction with governments, regulators, academia, and other stakeholders, focuses on assuring high-quality cyber services and instilling trust in clients, regulators, and the broader cyber community.

The cyber accelerated maturity programme

From September 2024 to March 2025, CREST CAMP will operate in Armenia, Bahrain, Georgia, Ghana, Kenya, Lithuania, Malaysia, Thailand, Oman, and the Philippines. The programme’s primary goal is to promote cybersecurity maturity in these regions by increasing the private sector’s involvement in national security. This effort demonstrates a shift in how development funds are directed.

Historically, government entities have received the majority of funds designed to increase cybersecurity capabilities. However, CREST CAMP recognises that private sector companies play a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure and addressing societal needs.

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) funds the programme. It offers mentoring, training, and support to help companies navigate the CREST Accreditation Pathway. By providing a structured framework for professional development, CREST CAMP aims to set new benchmarks for growth and sustainability in the cybersecurity ecosystems of the participating regions.

CREST CAMP aims to close the gap in private sector support, ensuring that governments and businesses have access to high-quality cybersecurity services from the commercial sector. This strategic shift is especially important because private enterprises often maintain crucial national infrastructure, such as financial institutions and utility services.

CREST CAMP was officially launched at the Wilton Park Dialogue at an event titled ‘Securing Technology: Sustaining a High-Quality Cyber Security Workforce’ on September 17, 2024.

Collaboration is a central component of CREST CAMP. Through its global network of accredited member companies, training providers, and academic partners, CREST works to raise cybersecurity standards in target regions. The programme provides intensive mentoring from experienced member organisations, with a focus on professional development, certification processes, and market expansion. Participating companies will also receive support in designing low-cost, high-quality training options to help grow a sustainable cybersecurity workforce internally.

For the established CREST member companies involved in mentoring, the programme provides an opportunity to contribute to the future of the global cybersecurity ecosystem. These mentors play an important role in helping emerging organisations identify gaps in methodology, policy, and capabilities and develop plans to fill them. This collaboration not only strengthens the participating companies but also promotes long-term collaborations and the creation of a uniform regulatory framework.

Expanding cybersecurity capacity

CREST CAMP is widening the scope of cybersecurity capacity building by acknowledging the need for high-quality staff from all sectors of society. The programme is an important step toward ensuring that both the public and commercial sectors have access to the skills required to defend against today’s increasingly complex digital threats. By emphasising sustainable growth and professional development, CREST CAMP seeks to protect vital infrastructure and national security.

According to CREST CEO Nick Benson, “CREST CAMP […] is part of our increasing role supporting companies globally on their journey of professionalisation and growth. CREST’s work in global capacity building is essential for those companies that need more support and guidance. We are grateful to the FCDO for supporting CREST CAMP.”

Benson also emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating, “CREST member companies around the world, as mentors and examples of best practices, will play an important part […] We must look beyond our own national borders to enhance collective security against cyber threats.”

Such an initiative makes a considerable contribution to the broader objective of enhancing global cybersecurity.