About us

First Connect2Trust meeting

The journey began on March 31, 2016, with the very first Connect2Trust meeting. What started as an open dialogue between like-minded cyber security professionals quickly evolved into a community driven by shared responsibility for cybersecurity and digital trust.

Official establishment of the Connect2Trust Foundation

A major step forward came on June 25, 2019, with the official establishment of the Connect2Trust Foundation. This formalization provided a solid governance structure, enabling the network to scale its activities, deepen partnerships, and expand its impact across sectors.

Designated as a ‘link organization’ by the NCSC

Recognition followed on April 2, 2021, when Connect2Trust was designated as a “link organization” by the Dutch National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). This status strengthened our role as a trusted intermediary, facilitating the exchange of vital cybersecurity information between government and industry.

First Advisory Board meeting

Later that year marked a period of rapid growth and professionalization. The first Advisory Board meeting on August 19, 2021 introduced strategic oversight and guidance, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the foundation.

First CyberSQUAD

Shortly after, on August 26, 2021, we launched the very first CyberSQUAD, an event aimed at engaging and inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity talent.

The Dutch National Police joins Connect2Trust

Our growing importance within the Dutch security ecosystem was further reinforced on October 1, 2021, when the Dutch National Police joined Connect2Trust, highlighting the shared commitment across public institutions to collaborate on cybersecurity challenges.

Partnership between Connect2Trust and HSD (Security Delta)

Building on this momentum, Connect2Trust entered into a strategic partnership with HSD (Security Delta) on March 10, 2022, strengthening ties with one of Europe’s leading security clusters and expanding opportunities for innovation and knowledge sharing.

Became a member of ECSO (European Cyber Security Organisation)

Most recently, on June 13, 2024, Connect2Trust became a member of the European Cyber Security Organisation (ECSO). This milestone marks an important step in our internationalization, connecting our community to the broader European cybersecurity landscape and contributing to shaping digital trust at a continental level.