Unlocking financial support: Tips for funding your cybersecurity certification

Ellen Pincus
August 13, 2024 by
Ellen Pincus

Businesses need cybersecurity professionals, but they want to know those professionals are qualified. After all, getting security wrong can be costly for an organization, with the average cost of a data breach now at $4.45 million. That's why 87% of hiring managers say IT and cybersecurity credentials are important in determining if a candidate is qualified — second only to hands-on experience. 

However, financial challenges can sometimes prevent you from obtaining the certifications you need to take your career to the next level. The cost of exam vouchers, training materials, and, if needed, live instruction can push your dreams of becoming a cyber defender out of budget. But don’t let funding be a roadblock to your future. This guide will help you understand different ways you can pay for your certification, including a template you can use to help make your case for funding. 

Benefits of certification: A win-win for you and your organization 

If you already have a job, talk to your employer and understand the benefits your organization may already have in place. Or, if there is no formal program to follow, you can make a case for your specific training to get buy-in from decision-makers 

There are many reasons for a company to invest in employee training. Here are a few you can use to increase the chances of getting the nod of approval: 

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  • Enhanced productivity. 81% of cybersecurity professionals say their workload has increased, and 59% say cyber-threats against their organization have grown, according to Enterprise Strategy Group. Employee training helps them stay ahead of these emerging threats and work more efficiently as their duties expand. 
  • Less skills gaps. ...