A Digital Mindset for Businesses!

Work Package 1

This work package focuses on developing the VirtualLab environment to specifically support digitally-driven and information-intensive companies in cybersecurity training. The goal is to provide businesses with the opportunity to practise handling cyber and information security incidents and crisis situations, as well as to test and enhance their security capabilities in a realistic and safe environment. This strengthens their digital resilience and supports business continuity.

During the project, the technical training environment will be developed, and training scenarios and exercises will be created to help companies improve their cybersecurity skills and protect against ever-growing cyber threats.

• Customising and Developing the Technical and Functional Capabilities of the VirtualLab. In the first phase, the VirtualLab’s technical capabilities will be enhanced to better support cybersecurity training for digital business. This includes expanding the technical functionalities, ensuring system reliability, acquiring necessary licenses, and implementing updates. The VirtualLab’s operational features will be optimised to ensure smooth and secure participation by companies in the exercises.
• Building Training Scenarios and Technical Exercise Elements. In the second phase, company-specific training scenarios and inputs will be developed to simulate various cyber threats and security situations. Special attention will be given to strengthening the cybersecurity of digital services, such as e-commerce platforms. These exercises allow companies to practically test and improve their security practices and train responses to data breaches and other cyber incidents.
• Piloting and Further Developing Cyber Exercises. Selected companies will participate in pilot exercises to test the functionality and realism of the VirtualLab scenarios and elements. Feedback will be collected on exercise effectiveness and scenario realism, which will guide further development to better meet the needs of the target group. Based on the pilot phase, exercises will be refined and made more widely available.
• Continuous Development and Maintenance of the VirtualLab. Finally, the project will ensure that the VirtualLab remains available for companies after the project ends. This includes ongoing development and maintenance to keep training scenarios up to date with the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Operational models will also be developed so that companies can continue using the VirtualLab as part of their security practices and risk management strategies.

Work Package 3

This work package focuses on developing a clear customer guidance model, enabling companies to access Europe-wide digitalisation support and testing services, particularly through the Robocoast EDIH networks.

• Strengthening Network Connections. Connections with national and international EDIH networks will be created and strengthened to provide companies in Kymenlaakso with a broader range of expert services in digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The most relevant networks and services for companies will be identified, and the support services and collaboration opportunities offered by EDIH networks to local businesses will be mapped.

• Design and Development of the Customer Guidance Model. A customer guidance model will be developed to help companies utilise EDIH network services. The model provides a clear, step-by-step pathway for companies at different stages of digitalisation, whether it involves technology adoption, business process digitalisation, or skills development. The guidance model includes a business coaching framework that helps companies find the services that best meet their specific needs.

• Cyber Piloting and Practical Testing. The customer guidance model will be piloted with a selected group of companies. The pilot includes coaching workshops, where companies’ business development needs and the necessary actions, including potential training requirements, are concretised. Companies receive support through the guidance model before being connected to EDIH services. Feedback from the companies will be collected to fine-tune the model, ensuring it meets their development needs effectively. The pilot will also evaluate service accessibility and how companies utilise the opportunities offered by the networks.

• Communication and Large-Scale Implementation. Finally, communication and outreach activities will be carried out to encourage companies in Kymenlaakso to use the customer guidance model and EDIH network services. This includes training sessions, informational events, and advisory support to help companies take full advantage of digitalisation-related expert services.