Cyber security can feel overwhelming for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Between rising threats, growing compliance pressures, and limited internal expertise, it’s hard to know where to start or what really matters.
Enter SMB1001: a cyber security framework purpose-built for SMBs that simplifies the path to protection, without the complexity of enterprise standards.
In our recent webinar hosted by Shaun Barnett, Cyber Security Manager at Ever Nimble, and featuring Ryan Ettridge, Chief Growth Officer at CyberCert, the pair unpacked why SMB1001 is quickly gaining traction in the Australian SMB market – and why it might be exactly what your business needs.
What is SMB1001?
SMB1001 is a cyber security framework specifically designed for small and medium businesses. Unlike ISO 27001 or the Essential Eight – which were developed with large enterprises in mind – this standard is proportionate, practical, and actually certifiable.
“SMB1001 is a certifiable standard specifically designed for small businesses,” said Ryan. “Trying to adapt ISO is like using a sledgehammer to kill a fly – you might hit the fly, but you’ll break everything else along the way.”
Why It Matters for SMBs
It’s Built for Your Business
SMB1001 was created with the realities of small business in mind: limited time, budgets, and resources. It’s broken into five certification tiers; Bronze through Diamond so you can start where it makes sense for your risk profile and grow from there.
Certification Adds Confidence
One of the biggest advantages? You can get certified. And that certification carries weight with insurers, boards, and clients. As Shaun put it, “Boards want something tangible. A high-level view that says, ‘Yes, we’re doing the right things.’ This delivers that.
It Covers More Than Just Tech
Most frameworks focus solely on technical controls. SMB1001 takes a broader view, including policies around fraud, visitor access, information security, and incident response – things that matter in the real world of SMBs.
It Stays Up to Date
Technology and threats change fast. SMB1001 is updated annually, incorporating the latest risks and industry feedback. “It’s dynamic by design,” explained Ryan. “Updates are based on real input from partners like Ever Nimble – so it evolves with the times.”
It Starts with Support
Best of all, you’re not expected to go it alone. The very first control in the framework? Having a trusted IT or cyber security partner. That means working with experts like Ever Nimble who can guide you through the process and help tailor protections to your needs.
The Bottom Line
With cyber-crime up 25% in the past year and over 600 data breaches reported in just six months, it’s never been more important for SMBs to get serious about cyber security.
“Cyber security has no value until it protects something that matters,” said Ryan. “Like a padlock – it’s worth $5 until it’s guarding something priceless.”
SMB1001 offers a clear, practical and credible roadmap to build cyber resilience without the overwhelm. It’s cyber security made for the real world, and it’s here to help your business thrive, not just survive.
Need help navigating SMB1001 or exploring certification?
Get in touch with the team at Ever Nimble. We’ll help you get secure, stay compliant, and feel confident doing it. In the meantime, you can also learn more about SMB1001 here.
