In an exclusive interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, François Guay, founder of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN), shares key insights on emerging cyber threats, practical security strategies, and how SMBs can build digital resilience.
Leading Canada’s largest cybersecurity network with 44,000+ members, François has been instrumental in bridging the cybersecurity talent gap and shaping national discussions on cyber resilience. In this interview, he offers expert advice on protecting SMBs in 2025 and beyond.
François Guay is the visionary founder of Canada’s largest cybersecurity network, the Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN), which unites over 44,000 members from diverse sectors, including individuals, businesses, universities, professional associations, diversity groups, and government agencies, representing nearly 950,000 people across the country. Under François’s leadership, CCN has become a cornerstone in fostering collaboration, innovation, and security in Canada’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity ecosystem.
As the founder of Canadian Cybersecurity Jobs, Canada’s only dedicated cybersecurity job portal, François has transformed the talent landscape by creating essential links between top-tier professionals and leading organizations. He also spearheaded CyberVoices, which has quickly become a thought leadership platform that amplifies the dialogue on key cybersecurity trends in Canada. François is the author and editor of pivotal reports, including CyberTowns: Best Places to Live and Work in Cybersecurity, the State of Cybersecurity in Canada, and the Canadian Cybersecurity Talent Report, shaping how organizations navigate today’s cybersecurity challenges.
CCN has grown to become Canada’s largest cybersecurity ecosystem. What unique challenges and opportunities do you see for small and medium-sized businesses in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape?
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Canada face unique challenges in cybersecurity, such as limited resources to address the rising sophistication of cyber threats like generative AI-enabled attacks. They must also navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape while maintaining compliance and protecting sensitive data. However, these challenges present opportunities. SMBs can leverage emerging technologies, such as AI-powered tools, to automate threat detection and streamline compliance efforts. Partnering with trusted vendors and adopting scalable solutions enable SMBs to enhance their security posture cost-effectively while building resilience against evolving cyber risks.
Your network bridges the gap between industry professionals and aspiring talent. How can SMBs leverage CCN’s resources to address their cybersecurity skills shortage and stay competitive in the digital age?
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) can leverage CCN’s resources to address their cybersecurity skills shortage and stay competitive by utilizing the CanadianCybersecurityJobs.com platform, offered free of charge to all small businesses and employers posting cybersecurity jobs in Canada. As the #1 dedicated cybersecurity job platform in the country, with over 150,000 monthly visitors, it provides unmatched access to highly qualified talent. Additionally, by becoming CCN business members, SMBs gain exclusive benefits such as brand promotion, no-cost media opportunities, participation as thought leaders in national publications, and the ability to network with thousands of peers and skilled cybersecurity professionals within CCN’s extensive membership.
With over 44,000 members and a supporter employee ecosystem of over 1 million CCN has a wealth of insights into the cybersecurity sector. What emerging trends or threats should Canadian SMBs be particularly aware of in the coming years?
The 2025 State of Cybersecurity in Canada Report release on January 30th, 2025 by CCN highlights a critical crossroads for Canadian organizations as they face an evolving threat landscape driven by ransomware, AI-powered attacks, and vulnerabilities in cloud and IoT systems. To stay competitive, businesses must shift from reactive defense to proactive resilience, leveraging emerging technologies like AI for fraud detection and incident response while addressing the risks they pose. Building operational resilience, fostering a security-first culture, and addressing the cybersecurity talent gap are essential steps. Collaboration between public and private sectors, along with strategic adoption of advanced tools and frameworks, can help secure Canada’s small medium businesses. Companies can download the report at no cost here: https://canadiancybersecuritynetwork.com/stateofcybersecurity
CCN is committed to elevating cyber literacy and hygiene. Can you share some practical, cost-effective strategies that small businesses can implement to improve their cybersecurity posture significantly?
My advice for small businesses is to significantly enhance their cybersecurity posture through practical and cost-effective strategies tailored to their resources and risk levels. Implementing basic security controls and standards like SOC2 is essential, especially if handling third-party data, to meet client and regulatory expectations. Leveraging affordable tools and managed service providers can help automate processes such as access management, threat detection, and compliance tracking, reducing both costs and effort. Building awareness within the team by providing training on identifying phishing attempts and securing passwords is equally important. Additionally, small businesses should establish a vendor risk management process to mitigate risks associated with third-party suppliers. As businesses scale, integrating trust pages and security questionnaires can streamline compliance while increasing client confidence.
As we conclude, what final piece of advice would you offer to Canadian SMB owners who may feel overwhelmed by the complexities of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape?
My key advice is to join communities of practice like CCN, where business owners can engage with experts and peers who provide practical advice and help cut through the noise. It’s crucial for owners to seek out mentors or trusted advisors who can offer guidance when needed. Building these relationships across various disciplines and skill sets is essential to effectively running a business. This year, CCN aims to establish a cybersecurity marketplace where businesses can connect with vetted vendors across different areas of cybersecurity, access reviews from previous buyers, and benefit from transparent pricing. Additionally, we are planning to launch a cyber literacy program tailored for small businesses, starting with a pilot in a smaller community before expanding provincially and eventually nationwide.
