Google Cloud And Plexal Partner To Help Security Startups

Plexal has announced a partnership with Google Cloud to help security startups in the UK grow their ideas into working products. The work will run over the next six months and will involve giving selected founders access to resources and technology from Google Cloud. This will include AI tools to help them design products, plan their market entry, and organise how they run their businesses.

Google Cloud went ahead with this company for a reason… its record in supporting technology adoption for organisations such as the National Cyber Security Centre, the Ministry of Defence and Airbus Defence and Space might have stood out. Also, Plexal is known for spotting promising startups and helping them connect with the right networks to grow. This partnership is intended to give that same level of support to a new set of companies tackling security issues.

Events will be held at Google and Plexal sites in London and Cheltenham. Cheltenham has a strong cyber security community and is home to GCHQ, which adds to its appeal for founders working in this space.

 

What Will Startup Founders Receive?

 

Selected founders will be given Google Cloud credits to help them develop and scale their projects without high early costs. They will also get learning resources, such as practical labs, exclusive workshops, and in-depth classes on building with generative AI which includes Google’s Gemini model.

Another benefit is access to a Startup Success Manager. This will give each founder a single contact point for advice and guidance on Google tools and services. Founders will also be able to get discounts on Google products like Workspace, Maps Platform and other software that could help run their businesses more efficiently.

The support package is designed to give these startups both the technical tools and the business knowledge to move from an idea to a working product in the market.

 

 

Why Is This Necessary For UK Security?

 

Security is becoming a big problem for governments, companies and individuals. Startups in this field are working on solutions that can strengthen resilience all around to bring together talent and resources to work on these problems.

The programme’s location in London and Cheltenham puts it close to important centres of security work, making it easier for founders to connect with organisations and experts in the field. It is expected that the companies involved will develop technologies that can be applied across multiple sectors, from national defence to private business security.

Dave Rowley, Senior Director of Go-to-Market at Plexal, said, “The challenge that startups face is a fragmented market, complex procurement and limited access to end users.

“Navigating defence and national security requirements and building trust with decision-makers takes time – time many early-stage companies can’t afford. This slows innovation adoption and ultimately puts UK resilience at risk.

“Our partnership with Google Cloud brings the scale, reach and credibility startups need. Plexal provides deep sector access, delivery experience and a proven track record in dual-use innovation. Together, we can accelerate market readiness, unlock routes to deployment and drive faster adoption of UK-grown solutions that strengthen our national security.”

Darren Mowry, Vice President, Global Startups at Google Cloud, added, “Plexal is already helping startups at all stages of growth access Google Cloud’s technologies and support network. This includes our latest models like Gemini 2.5, our AI-optimised infrastructure, important mentorship, go-to-market support, and more. By working with partners like Plexal, we can help more security-focused startups innovate with AI and get products to market more quickly.”