Google.org announces $3.5M CAD to launch Cyber Clinics Canada

Across Canada, community organizations face growing digital security challenges, from phishing attacks to data vulnerabilities. At the same time, we face a critical shortage of job-ready cybersecurity talent, with one in six cyber job postings currently going unfilled.

To help bridge the talent gap and better protect the organizations serving Canadians, Google.org is providing $3.5 million CAD to launch Cyber Clinics Canada, including $1M CAD to Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst at Toronto Metropolitan University to lead the initiative.

A teaching hospital model for digital security

Cybersecurity clinics function much like teaching hospitals. Instead of learning only in the classroom, postsecondary students work directly with local charities, non-profits, and small businesses under the supervision of experienced mentors and faculty.

Through these clinics, students gain the hands-on skills needed to start their careers, while under-resourced organizations receive free cybersecurity guidance, vulnerability assessments, and practical tools to protect their data.

Expanding access across Canada

Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) will lead the nationwide network, providing participating colleges and universities across the country with shared tools, resources, and coaching to help them launch their own community-based clinics.

Google.org is also providing Google Cybersecurity Certificate scholarships to help learners gain foundational skills as they enter the field.

Cyber Clinics Canada builds on a growing global movement of more than 60 clinics worldwide. By bringing Canadian postsecondary institutions together, this initiative ensures local organizations have access to essential digital defences while equipping learners with practical experience to enter the cyber workforce.

Learn more at cyberclinics.ca.