The Nation's Model for Cyber Education
Data Assured
Your data is your business. Technology is how you deliver your products and services. Hackers are not looking for the biggest score in their attacks; they are looking for whatever door is open. Small businesses often have less resources to put towards securing their critical data and operational technology, and often cannot respond as swiftly or effectively against a cyber attack, making them easy and very appealing targets to hackers. With 82% of small businesses being affected by ransomware attacks in 2021, awareness and understanding of the cybersecurity risks your small business can face is the first step in becoming cyber risk minded.
Many small business owners are already risk minded, in every area of their business except technology. Data Assured works to expose small businesses to the giant threat landscape that small businesses face on a daily basis, and provide resources and advising to help small businesses navigate the cybersecurity threats that they face and build cybersecurity resilience.
of small businesses that fall victim to ransomware pay the money*
*Data from CNBC
of ransomware attacks in 2021 were against companies with fewer than 1,000 employees*
*Data from Coveware.com
Our Program Aims To:
- RAISE AWARENESS OF CYBER RISK
- HELP MANAGE CYBER THREAT AND IMPACT
- FOSTER INNOVATION IN CYBERSECURITY, AI and Technology
How can Data Assured help my small business?
Understand the importance of risk management and a cybersecurity program through: free downloadable resources, online courses/webinars
Learn how to make risk-minded decisions when making decisions about technology, cybersecurity solutions, and protections
Receive guidance and advising on how to navigate cybersecurity risk small businesses face
Downloadable Resources
Cyber Workbook Guide
Learn and review cybersecurity best practices tailored to small businesses. Understand the threats you face and how to mitigate risk in 2026.
Cyber Workbook Toolkit
Ready to apply your new cyber knowledge to your business? Templates, checklists, and more can help you keep your data and operations safe and secure.
Cyber Workbook Bundle
Download both the Data Assured Guide and Toolkit, along with a pre-formatted spreadsheet to identify risks and track your critical inventory.
Leaders in Cybersecurity Advising & Training
In addition to running a premier program in cybersecurity for small businesses in Delaware, the Delaware SBDC Cybersecurity team runs the nation’s training program for SBA Resource Partner advisors. With a 100% certificate success rate, the North Star Cybersecurity Certification presents an educational program designed to train small business advisors and consultants across the nation. This program is not available for small business clients or the general public.
North Star represents the collective efforts of America’s SBDC network to mitigate cyber threats facing small businesses. This initiative aligns with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (2.0), but explores other various frameworks, including the DoD Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC 2.0), NIST Special Publications, CIS, and others, providing both awareness and guidance. Its primary aim is to provide structure to the complex field of cybersecurity, aiding advisors in their efforts to support small businesses.
Learn more about the North Star Cybersecurity Certification Program >
Please note: This program serves SBA resource partners and is not available to the public.
On-Demand Learning
Strategies for NIH Applications
Course Overview
Please join the Delaware SBDC’s Technology Business Development Team and Dana Upton, PhD/MBA from Eva Garland Consultants to discuss how to craft a strong NIH application.
Upton guides attendees through a preparation process that describes the technical significance of their innovation while highlighting commercial viability for the best shot at a successful NIH application round.
National Cancer Institute - SBIR/STTR Overview
Course Overview
Please join the DSBDC and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) SBIR Program Directors, Jonathan Franca Koh and William Bozza, who will review fundamental information on NCI SBIR/STTR funding, as well as commercialization resources and application tips.
Attendees will learn about: SBIR/STTR eligibility requirements NIH SBIR/STTR process and new cancer-focused funding opportunities from NCI NCI SBIR/STTR initiatives such as the I-Corps at NIH Entrepreneurship Program, Applicant Assistant Program, etc. Practical strategies on how to successfully submit competitive research proposals.
Connect with Us
Are you a resource partner interested in learning more about the Data Assured or North Star cybersecurity programs? Reach out to our program manager for more information!
"*" indicates required fields
Connect with Us
Are you a resource partner interested in learning more about the Data Assured or North Star cybersecurity programs? Reach out to our program manager for more information!
"*" indicates required fields
