Why regulated businesses and SMEs bidding for tenders should consider Cyber Essentials Plus certification

In an era of rising cyber threats and increasingly stringent compliance requirements, businesses cannot afford to overlook cybersecurity. For regulated industries and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to secure contracts, particularly in government and corporate supply chains, Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) certification is becoming a critical asset.

Unlike the basic Cyber Essentials certification, CE+ involves an independent technical audit, offering businesses a higher level of assurance that their systems are protected against cyber threats. For those operating in regulated sectors or seeking to enhance their competitive standing in tenders, CE+ is fast becoming an essential credential.

Meeting regulatory compliance

For businesses in highly regulated industries such as finance, healthcare and legal services, cybersecurity is not just best practice it’s a requirement. CE+ certification aligns with key regulatory frameworks, helping organisations demonstrate compliance with:

• GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) – Showcasing a strong commitment to data protection.
• NIS2 Directive – Essential for companies providing critical services.
• PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) – A must for businesses handling card payments.

With regulatory scrutiny increasing, businesses that fail to meet cybersecurity standards risk hefty fines and reputational damage. CE+ provides a structured approach to security, helping organisations strengthen their defences while streamlining compliance efforts.

A competitive advantage in tenders

Winning contracts, particularly with government agencies, the NHS, or large enterprises, is becoming more competitive and cybersecurity credentials are now a deciding factor. Many organisations require suppliers to hold Cyber Essentials as a minimum standard, while CE+ provides an added layer of credibility.

Businesses with CE+ certification signal to potential clients that they:

• Take cybersecurity seriously.
• Have undergone independent security assessments.
• Reduce risks within the supply chain.

For SMEs bidding for contracts, CE+ can be the differentiator that sets them apart from competitors who have yet to secure the certification.

Strengthening protection against cyber threats

Cybercrime is an escalating challenge for businesses of all sizes. Phishing attacks, ransomware and data breaches are becoming more sophisticated and the financial and reputational costs of an attack can be severe. CE+ certification helps businesses strengthen their security posture by ensuring:

• Secure configurations and access controls.
• Protection against malware and phishing threats.
• Proactive patch management to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Unlike the self-assessed Cyber Essentials certification, CE+ requires an external security audit providing independent verification that a business’s cyber defences are effective.

Building trust with customers and stakeholders

A data breach can erode trust overnight. For businesses handling sensitive customer data or working within regulated industries, proving a commitment to cybersecurity is critical. CE+ certification serves as a mark of assurance, demonstrating to clients, investors and stakeholders that the organisation follows best practices in cybersecurity.

Reducing risk and insurance costs

The financial impact of a cyberattack can be devastating, but many businesses underestimate the long-term costs, including regulatory fines, legal fees and lost revenue. Cyber Essentials Plus certification can help mitigate these risks while also unlocking potential benefits, such as:

• Reduced insurance premiums for cyber liability policies.
• Greater access to contracts that require accredited suppliers.
• Improved resilience against financial and operational disruption caused by cyber incidents.

Securing your business for the future

For regulated businesses and SMEs aiming to strengthen their cybersecurity and gain a competitive edge in tenders, Cyber Essentials Plus is a worthwhile investment. It not only enhances security but also demonstrates compliance and trust, key factors in today’s business landscape.

At Evolution Managed Services, we help businesses navigate the CE+ certification process efficiently and with minimal disruption. Our expertise ensures that organisations can achieve compliance while strengthening their overall cybersecurity strategy.

Get started today

If your business is looking to achieve Cyber Essentials Plus certification or enhance its cybersecurity measures, contact us today to discuss how we can help.

Let’s secure your business and unlock new opportunities together.