We are experiencing an increased threat and, at the same time, we see significant potential in the development of cybersecurity and information security.

Technological advancement and digitization have revolutionized our society, changing the way we communicate, produce, learn, and live our lives. However, this development has also significantly altered the threat landscape. Modern warfare increasingly takes place in the digital realm, and in civil society, citizens and businesses need to shield themselves against attacks from cybercriminals.

Therefore, cybersecurity and information security are a shared concern and responsibility. Citizens and businesses, educational and research institutions, public authorities, police, and defense; we are all part of the solution if the digital world is to be a safe place. Talent, innovation, and collaboration are keywords if we are to stay one step ahead of digital criminals.

In Aarhus, we have the prerequisites to take the lead in this battle, and this comes with obligations. With a solid foundation of world-class research, a scientific and market leadership position in cryptography, a growing ecosystem in blockchain and other security technologies, competitive IT and technology companies, and a partnership-oriented business culture, we aim to fulfill the vision of a more cyber-secure future. This will benefit both society as a whole and the local economy, which strengthens Aarhus as an attractive city to live and study in through growth and job opportunities.

The focal point of our efforts is a Security Tech Space: an independent organization connected to an existing research and innovation environment, led by a director and a broadly composed board. Its dedicated focus is to ensure the realization of the vision and the market potential that Aarhus's strong position in cybersecurity and information security brings.

With a Security Tech Space, we complement other initiatives by targeting our efforts toward civil society, especially the lifeblood of the Danish economy: the many small and medium-sized enterprises for whom a lack of knowledge, skills, and resources can be a barrier to action.

The mission is clear: a Security Tech Space should be a catalyst for collaboration and co-creation across the entire ecosystem of both public and private actors by bridging the gap between supply and demand, research and capital. Through a shared and coordinated effort, we will, based on a Security Tech Space, ensure a modern digital defense in Danish businesses.