Catalyst Cyber Clinic
Free, actionable cybersecurity support for non-profits and other community organizations, delivered by trained Catalyst consultants
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What is the Catalyst Cyber Clinic?
One of the first of its kind in Canada, the Catalyst Cyber Clinic provides free cybersecurity support for Canadian non-profits and community organizations that may lack access to dedicated security resources. The initiative helps to expand access expand access to non-profit cybersecurity support in Canada.
The Clinic is staffed by trained Catalyst graduates. Clinic Consultants hold industry-recognized certifications, and the Clinic is an opportunity to build their careers through hands-on cybersecurity consulting for charities and mission-driven organizations.
Non-profits, in turn, get actionable support to improve their security, including a documented Cybersecurity Action Plan outlining recommended security improvements and next steps.
Program Benefits
- Hands-On Expertise: Practical, real-world experience for Catalyst grads
- Nationwide Access: Empowering under-resourced organizations across Canada
- No-Cost Support: FREE action plan and next steps for eligible organizations
Why Cybersecurity Support Matters for Non-Profits
Non-profit organizations increasingly face cybersecurity threats but often lack dedicated security resources. Limited budgets, aging technology infrastructure, and growing digital services can expose organizations to cyber risks.
The Catalyst Cyber Clinic helps address this gap by providing practical cybersecurity guidance and risk assessments tailored to the needs of mission-driven organizations.
Common Cybersecurity Challenges for Non-Profits
Non-profit and community organizations often face cybersecurity challenges due to limited budgets, small IT teams, and increasing reliance on digital tools. These factors can make it difficult to identify and manage cyber risks.
Common challenges include:
- Limited cybersecurity staff or internal expertise
- Phishing and social engineering attacks targeting employees
- Protecting donor, volunteer, and client data
- Outdated software or unsupported systems
- Lack of structured cybersecurity policies or risk assessments
The Catalyst Cyber Clinic helps organizations identify these risks and develop practical steps to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
How the Catalyst Cyber Clinic Works
Consultants
These certified Catalyst cybersecurity graduates are specially trained to support non-profits in various roles over a 4–6 week period.
Non-Profits
These Clinic clients receive free cybersecurity help for non-profits from a team of consultants for 4–6 weeks, including a needs assessment and a tailored cybersecurity action plan.
Mentors
These Catalyst community industry experts supervise Consultant teams to ensure a high-quality experience and actionable recommendations.
Measuring Our Impact
The Catalyst Cyber Clinic is designed to create a measurable impact for both participating organizations and cybersecurity professionals gaining practical experience.
By connecting trained cybersecurity professionals with mission-driven organizations, the program strengthens digital resilience while expanding access to non-profit cybersecurity support in Canada.
Consultant Stats
94%
of consultants reported increased confidence and preparedness for cybersecurity work.
100%
of consultants reported learning valuable lessons about working on a team
100%
of consultants reported having a better understanding of cybersecurity work in real-world settings.
Client Stats
100%
of clients reported an improved understanding of their cybersecurity risks
100%
of clients rated the recommendations as useful and actionable
100%
of clients would recommend the support to another organization
Consultant Voices
Client Voices
“For anyone not trained in cybersecurity, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start. The program gave us the tools and a place to start where we are most vulnerable.”
“As a small non-profit, having in-house cybersecurity resources and knowledge is a rarity. Working with the Cyber Clinic has been truly eye-opening in terms of helping us understand the safety risk and solutions that exist.”
“It gave our team the confidence and tools to protect client information, improve internal systems, and respond to digital threats with clarity.”
Who Can Participate in the Catalyst Cyber Clinic?
To participate in the Catalyst Cyber Clinic, you must be one of the following:
- A non-profit Canadian organization in need of cybersecurity help
- A Catalyst learner or graduate
- An industry expert who is a member of the Catalyst community and looking to mentor current consultants
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Catalyst Cyber Clinic accepting applications?
The Catalyst Cyber Clinic is currently in its pilot stage. Standard applications will open soon. Organizations are encouraged to monitor this page for updates on upcoming intake opportunities.
Who is eligible to participate in the Cyber Clinic?
The Cyber Clinic is designed for under-resourced non-profit and community organizations across Canada that may not have access to dedicated cybersecurity expertise. Eligible organizations are those seeking practical, structured support to improve their cybersecurity posture and reduce digital risk.
What are the benefits for Catalyst graduates serving as Clinic Consultants?
The Cyber Clinic provides graduates with hands-on experience addressing real-world cybersecurity challenges. This practical exposure strengthens their professional development, enhances Canada’s cyber talent ecosystem, and supports workforce readiness in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.
What outcomes can organizations expect from participating?
Organizations can expect a clearer understanding of their cybersecurity risks, practical recommendations tailored to their operational environment, and a structured Cybersecurity Action Plan. The goal is to build long-term cyber resilience while supporting responsible digital innovation.
Does the Cyber Clinic provide support after a cyberattack?
The Clinic offers guidance on incident preparedness and response planning. While it is not a replacement for emergency response services, it equips organizations with the knowledge to respond effectively to a cyber incident and understand next steps, including reporting and recovery considerations.
Is there a cost to participate in the Cyber Clinic?
The Cyber Clinic provides eligible organizations with cybersecurity support and a documented Cybersecurity Action Plan at no cost.
Get Involved in the Catalyst Cyber Clinic
The Catalyst Cyber Clinic is in its pilot stage and will open for wider applications soon.
Join upcoming cohorts to work directly with community organizations and deliver practical security support to non-profits.
Register your interest or contact The Catalyst to learn more about upcoming opportunities.