Irish businesses are facing rising cyber security threats, and SMEs are underprepared and heavily targeted (Cyber Resilience, 2025) with over 60% of cyberattacks in 2024 aimed as SMEs (TechCentral, 2025). As threats rise and skilled professionals become harder to find, Kerry businesses are asking a critical question: How can we build cyber resilience without breaking the bank?
Rising Cyber Threats in Munster
Munster has seen a sharp increase in cyber incidents since 2024, impacting sectors such as hospitality, manufacturing, professional services and local retail. SMEs, which make up the backbone of Kerry’s economy, are disproportionately affected because they often lack dedicated cyber staff, enterprise‑grade tools or formal response plans.
Today’s threat landscape includes:
· Ransomware attacks targeting business‑critical data
· Phishing campaigns becoming more personalised and more convincing
· Business email compromise, costing Irish companies millions annually
· Supply chain breaches affecting trusted local service providers
With attackers increasingly automating their operations, even the smallest business can find itself in the crosshairs.
The Cyber Talent Shortage Is Hitting SMEs Hardest
Today’s cybersecurity talent market is highly competitive, and the shortage of skilled professionals means that many SMEs simply don’t have access to the expertise they need.
The result? SMEs are left exposed and are often unaware of it.
A Practical, Affordable Solution: FIT’s Cybersecurity Apprenticeships
Building internal cyber capability doesn’t have to mean hiring expensive senior analysts. FIT’s Cybersecurity Apprenticeship programmes offer Kerry employers a sustainable, cost‑effective way to grow in‑house cyber expertise.
Why Tech Apprentices?
· Tech Apprentice salaries are a fraction of the cost of hiring full‑time experienced professionals.
· FIT’s Tech Apprentice motivated candidates are pre-vetted, ensuring they are the right fit for your business.
· The programme blends on‑the‑job learning with specialist cyber training, giving employers immediate value.
· Tech Apprentice employers can avail of financial supports of up to €6,666 per apprentice, making it one of the most cost-efficient talent pipelines available in 2026.
How to Build Internal Cyber Capability in 2026
Lunch & Learn – 23rd April | RDI Hub, Kerry
FIT, in collaboration with the RDI Hub, is hosting a free Lunch & Learn session on the 23rd of April 2026 in Killorglin, Co. Kerry. This session is designed specifically for Kerry employers struggling to secure cyber talent and want to explore cost-effective ways to build internal capability in 2026 and beyond.
What to expect
· Learn how to build in‑house cyber defence without huge salaries or recruitment costs.
· Gain access to pre‑vetted candidate CVs.
· Learn how to access grants and gender‑based bursaries (up to €6,666).
· Book a 1:1 consultation to discuss your cyber staffing needs.
· Networking opportunities and lunch provided on the day.
Register free on Eventbrite today.
