Entries have opened for the Real Cyber Awards 2026 and Conference, a UK-based cybersecurity event designed to recognise the organisations and individuals working to keep businesses secure.
Positioned as a platform to highlight “the real work happening in cybersecurity today,” the awards are free to enter, with shortlisted nominees receiving two complimentary tickets to attend the event.
The ceremony and conference will take place on 30 October 2026 at The Milner Hotel, located next to York train station.
The event is hosted by Consultants Like Us (CLU), a Yorkshire-based firm focused on improving data security practices. Gary Hibberd, from CLU, said: “Our desire was to create something that would be educational, inspiring and entertaining. The awards are affordable and accessible to everyone and doesn’t just recognise those who have the biggest marketing budgets.”
The 2026 edition introduces a new format, combining the awards with a daytime conference for the first time. The expanded programme will include a conference stage and exhibition space aimed at fostering industry dialogue.
Lee Scorey, also from CLU, highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing in a rapidly evolving threat landscape: “Cybersecurity is such a fast-paced industry with change happening almost on an hourly basis, especially with the rise of AI. Staying ahead of threats and employing best practice relies on the sector being curious and asking the right questions. Our speakers and exhibitors will help push these conversations forward and inspire companies and individuals.”
The event is sponsored by KnowBe4, alongside others, including Techscend, Prove Privacy, Vorago Security and Tempo Audits.
Rachel Parr, of KnowBe4, said: “Knowbe4 offers a comprehensive AI-driven ‘best of suite’ platform for human risk management. This fits well with the event’s theme, which is ‘From Human Error to Human Advantage: Redefining Risk in a People-First Security World’.”
Conference tickets start at £75 for early bird access, with discounted student tickets also available. Attendees will receive a buffet lunch, refreshments and access to networking opportunities. Evening awards tickets start at £80 and include dinner, dancing and entertainment. Organisers have also arranged special hotel rates for delegates visiting York.
Categories for the awards span a wide range of contributions, from IT businesses to cybersecurity podcasts, blogs and books. The judging panel will include experts from across the industry.
Organisers say the awards aim to spotlight often-overlooked contributors in cybersecurity. The event will also raise funds for York Mind through a raffle and silent auction.
Nic Willis, from York Mind, said: “We’re really pleased to be part of The Real Cyber Awards & Conference 2026 this year. Bringing together people who are making a real difference, while also supporting local mental health, makes this a really positive event for the city. Every pound raised will stay here in York, helping more people access the support they need.”
Local sponsors have also emphasised the broader regional impact. Thomas Siron, founder of Techscend, said: “This major event coming to York is an opportunity to raise awareness of cybersecurity, but also another chance to put York on the map for the IT and business sector. We are so well connected and positioned, with direct rail links to London and many major cities, and should be a top choice for conferences and business events. We are sponsoring the Cyber Consultant Hero of the Year category and look forward to presenting an award to someone truly deserving of the title.’”
Submissions for the awards close on 31st May, with finalists receiving two tickets to attend the October event. Tickets and entry details are available via the official event website.
Information Security Buzz News Editor
Kirsten Doyle has been in the technology journalism and editing space for nearly 24 years, during which time she has developed a great love for all aspects of technology, as well as words themselves. Her experience spans B2B tech, with a lot of focus on cybersecurity, cloud, enterprise, digital transformation, and data centre. Her specialties are in news, thought leadership, features, white papers, and PR writing, and she is an experienced editor for both print and online publications.
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