Post-Event Summary: Patch Now, Pitch Later – Cyber Smarts for Startups
- Josh Brown
- Sep 12
- 2 min read
On the 4th of September, As part of the University of Melbourne's Innovation Week, Global Tech Partners hosted Patch Now, Pitch Later: Cyber Smarts for Startups at Melbourne Connect, bringing together founders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to explore the critical role of cybersecurity in business success.
The session highlighted how startups and scale-ups, often moving fast and juggling limited resources, are increasingly attractive targets for cyberattacks. Data breaches, downtime, and loss of trust can derail growth, threaten compliance, and shake investor confidence while IP and other assets can be at risk. The key message was clear: cybersecurity is not a “nice-to-have”—it’s a strategic foundation for resilience, credibility, and long-term success.
Key themes included:
Why early-stage companies are targeted and how to reduce risk during sensitive phases such as product launches and capital raises.
How embedding cybersecurity from day one supports operational integrity, investor readiness, and grant approvals.
The dual role of cybersecurity—as both a defensive necessity and a frontier for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event featured two outstanding speakers:
Ami Hofman, a global cybersecurity leader with 35+ years’ experience, who shared insights on resilience, risk management, and the evolving threat landscape.
Susie Jones, co-founder of Cynch Security and founder of Susie Group, who offered practical guidance for small businesses and startups on protecting digital assets while scaling with confidence.
Moderated by Josh Brown, Managing Director of Global Tech Partners.
The session was preceded by Cremorne Connect: VC Rosetta Stone, a practical guide to decoding venture capital feedback, and concluded with networking drinks and nibbles—giving attendees the chance to connect, exchange ideas, and build new collaborations.
Check out the photos below:
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