Rogers leads the way in cybersecurity with $15 million investment

Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst at Toronto Metropolitan University celebrated its five-year anniversary with the announcement of $16 million in new funding. Two of the Catalyst’s founding partners made renewed investments in this major hub for training, innovation and collaboration to foster a world-class and inclusive cybersecurity sector in Canada — with Rogers Communications investing $15 million and RBC contributing $1 million.

Since its inception in 2018, the Catalyst has pioneered groundbreaking cybersecurity programs, certifications and initiatives that have advanced digital security, created a more cybersecure nation and empowered more than 7,000 people to embark on their own cybersecurity careers. This includes 1,000 women, girls and non-binary individuals who have become employed in this traditionally male-dominated field after gaining cybersecurity skills through Catalyst programs.

“Every country needs strong cybersecurity capabilities to harness the power of innovation, while keeping our networks and communities safe,” said Greg Murray, Senior Vice-President, Information Security, Rogers Communications Inc. “Rogers is proud to renew our founding partnership with the Catalyst, to continue advancing critical cybersecurity skills and talent, as part of our commitment to investing in Canada’s economic development.”

In Canada, one in six cybersecurity roles goes unfilled, according to an Information and Communications Technology Council 2021 study. However, more than 500 businesses across the country have hired the Catalyst’s world-class alumni, upskilled their staff through Catalyst Cyber Range workshops and scaled up their operations via the Catalyst Cyber Accelerator. Catalyst programming is addressing the industry’s skills and talent gaps. 

“Having a highly trained cyber workforce is critical to Canada’s success,” said Adam Evans, Chief Information Security Officer at RBC. “The Catalyst program is a giant step in the right direction.”

The Catalyst has received more than $56 million towards its mission of empowering people and organizations to seize opportunities and tackle the challenges of cybersecurity. In addition to Rogers and RBC, its founding partners include the Government of Canada and the City of Brampton, home to Catalyst headquarters. Catalyst partners for select programs include the Government of Ontario, Mastercard Canada, Public Safety Canada and Torys LLP.

As a partnership of private, public and academic sectors, the Catalyst community now encompasses 10,000 cybersecurity experts, mentors, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, alumni and partners, collectively working to ensure the digital world is a safe place for all Canadians.

“From its launch just five years ago, and thanks to a growing community of support, the Catalyst has become a dynamic force in the Canadian cybersecurity ecosystem — and we’re just getting started,” said Charles Finlay, the Catalyst’s Founding Executive Director. “We are deeply grateful for the generous contributions and guidance of our founding partners — thank you, especially to Rogers Communications and RBC for their substantial new investments in the Catalyst. We look forward to continuing to play a pivotal role in building a diverse and inclusive future for cybersecurity, tackling the new challenges posed by the likes of AI and quantum computing, and creating a cyber-resilient future for all Canadians.”