Digital Security by Design – Technology Access Programme (UK)

A Morello board is a real-world test platform developed by Arm to implement the Morello architecture, which is itself based on Capability Hardware Enhanced RISC Instructions (CHERI). CHERI is a protection model, like virtual memory that can be integrated into different ISAs, including Arm Morello, CHERI RISC-V, and CHERIoT. This model is a project from the University of Cambridge and SRI International. These technologies can defend against most known memory safety issues in C and C++ and participants will be able to use these technologies to uncover security vulnerabilities in their own systems.

In addition to receiving a Morello evaluation board, participating companies will get access to the CHERI software stack, technical guides, and expert support to get started and trial these new technologies within their systems. The duration of the Technology Access Programme is 6 months. At the end of the trial period, participating companies will be offered to keep the Morello evaluation board.

The TAP is a tiered programme; qualifying companies will receive a £15,000 grant during the experimentation period. The programme is administered by Digital Catapult on behalf of UKRI.

Benefits and Support

• The programme provides participating companies with access to the Arm designed prototype hardware, CHERI software stack, technical guides, and expert support to get started and trial these new technologies within their systems.
  • Experiment with prototype, cutting-edge technology and be ahead of the game
  • Build unique knowledge within your company and stay competitive
  • Improve your product by identifying cyber security vulnerabilities in your systems/software
  • Become part of a vibrant community of cyber security pioneers
  • Receive a £15,000 funding (only companies with less than 250 employees)
  • Get access to experts at Arm, University of Cambridge, and Digital Catapult
  • Become part of the TAP Alumni upon successful completion of the experimentation period

Who should apply?

• The programme is open to UK-based companies that have a company culture of exploring, experimenting and inventing with new technologies, with a view of finding commercial applications. Companies with an R&D department and a strong focus on cyber security are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be registered on Companies House and also have a business bank account.
• Companies within the following industries should apply:
  • Information Technology and services
  • Computer software
  • Industrial automation
  • Computer hardware
  • CPU semiconductors
  • Energy
  • Automotive
  • Telecoms
• Manufacturers of connected consumer/industrial electronics (IoT & IIoT)
• Your company would ideally operate within or supply to the following sectors: utilities, healthcare, transportation, telecommunications, automotive, energy & mining, and all other sectors serving the Critical National Infrastructure.

For more information, visit Digital Catapult.