September 2026 | DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
DATA ASSURED LAUNCHES NEW 2026 Cybersecurity Workbook
Creativity and Innovation Build Your Business; Healthy Cybersecurity Practices Protect It
Back in 2013, following a series of high-profile data breaches, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) was tasked with creating a voluntary cybersecurity framework. While originally built for critical infrastructure, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) has continuously evolved to address emerging threats. NIST’s framework has grown into America’s premier security standard and set the foundation for modern regulatory compliance.
In 2024, NIST 2.0 provided updated, cutting-edge security standards. For small business owners without cyber expertise, though, implementing NIST 2.0 with limited time and resources can feel like an uphill battle. That’s why the Delaware Small Business Development Center (DSBDC) developed the Data Assured Cybersecurity Workbook Guide and Toolkit, translating these essential industry standards into a manageable roadmap tailored for small businesses.
What’s Inside the 2026 Workbook?
The Data Assured Workbook has two purposes: to educate entrepreneurs from any background on cybersecurity best practices, and to help businesses approach cybersecurity implementation with support. Providing practical, actionable steps, the Data Assured Cybersecurity Workbook can help any business start on the path to a safer and more secure future.
In two parts, the Cybersecurity Workbook provides:
GUIDE: In the style of a textbook or educational framework, the Workbook Guide breaks the NIST 2.0 Framework down into business-relevant terms for entrepreneurs to start learning. Complex concepts, systems, and risks are explored with approachable language and examples to ensure a business owner or manager can understand.
TOOLKIT: A set of dynamic templates, checklists, and implementation guides will serve as a first draft of a cybersecurity plan for your team. Paired with spreadsheet templates and your own individual business knowledge, the Toolkit builds on the learning content of the Guide to ensure your business develops its own unique plan.
Data Assured: Protecting Small Business
In today’s small business environment, it’s more important than ever that we provide support for entrepreneurs as they navigate these new challenges. Launching the reimagined and up-to-date 2026 Cyber Workbook, at no cost, this responsibility is felt across our team. As State Director of the Delaware SBDC, Mike Bowman, shared: “Over the last several years, our mission has been to stand alongside Delaware’s entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources to thrive safely in a digital-first world. These resources are a first step toward that goal – helping small businesses build resilience, strengthen their defenses, and continue driving innovation across our state.”
Securing your company’s digital assets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, you can build a resilient defense that protects your customers, your data, and your bottom line.
Download the 2026 Data Assured Cybersecurity Workbook and get started!
DATA ASSURED 2026 WORKBOOK: DOWNLOAD THE BUNDLE
Or visit our Data Assured page for more of our up-to-date materials and news from the Delaware SBDC’s cybersecurity experts.
DATA ASSURED
Data Assured is Delaware’s Small Business Development Center’s premier cybersecurity and technology program designed to educate and support small businesses.
STAY TUNED
Throughout October, the Delaware SBDC will offer further Data Assured resources, an info session on the Workbook, and more to celebrate Security Awareness Month!
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