We are proud to announce that we have been selected as one of the ten winners of the Mastercard Strive EU Innovation Fund. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to making cybersecurity accessible and scalable for small businesses across Europe.
What is the Mastercard Strive EU Innovation Fund?
The Mastercard Strive EU Innovation Fund awards grants of up to €500,000 to organizations developing innovative, digital-first solutions that empower small businesses. Out of nearly 500 applications from across the EU, Cresco Cybersecurity was chosen our pioneering approach to addressing cybersecurity challenges. We stand alongside winners from eight other countries, all committed to supporting Europe’s small businesses.
Why this matters for small businesses
Small businesses play an important role in Europe’s economy, but they’re often the target of cyberattacks. Nearly half of all breaches affect them, and the impact can be devastating. At Cresco, we believe cybersecurity shouldn’t be out of reach—it’s something every small business should have access to.
This grant allows us to improve our internal scanning solution to help small businesses:
Identify and fix vulnerabilities before they become real problems.
Use straightforward tools, like vulnerability scanners and dashboards, to take control of their security.
Stay secure without adding unnecessary stress to their daily operations.
Creating a safe and secure future
At Cresco Cybersecurity, we stand by small businesses. Cyber threats are becoming part of daily life, and our focus is on helping businesses feel secure and protected, so they can keep doing what they do best.
“This partnership with Mastercard Strive gives us the opportunity to support even more small businesses, refine our approach, and create a space where they can grow without the constant worry of cyber risks,” says Youssef Bey, co-founder of Cresco Cybersecurity.
For us, it’s not just about cybersecurity—it’s about building trust and creating peace of mind, step by step, for a safer tomorrow.
A vision of growth and inclusion
The Mastercard Strive EU Innovation Fund is part of a global effort to support 18 million small businesses. By focusing on tools like cybersecurity, digital solutions, and sustainability, it’s helping businesses find stability and growth in a changing world.
We’re grateful to be part of this journey and will continue working toward a future where small businesses feel secure, capable, and ready to thrive.
Read the full article about Cresco: Democratizing cybersecurity by supporting small businesses to understand and tackletheir vulnerabilities.