New Program to Build Cybersecurity in the Arts

From online ticketing and donor databases to cloud-based collaboration and financial systems, arts organizations are relying on digital tools more than ever. These tools can make work more efficient and accessible, but come with growing cybersecurity risks. Recent incidents across the nonprofit and arts sectors have shown just how vulnerable organizations can be to phishing attacks, data breaches, and system disruptions; often with serious consequences.

To help address these challenges, the Rozsa Foundation, Calgary Arts Development, and Calgary Foundation have partnered with Technology Helps to launch Essential Cybersecurity for Arts Organizations — a new program offering up to 25 arts organizations in Southern Alberta access to EverSecure, a comprehensive cybersecurity program designed specifically for nonprofits.

This initiative recognizes a reality many arts organizations face: cybersecurity is critical, but often difficult to prioritize amid limited time, staff, and resources. Rather than providing a one-time workshop or a cybersecurity checklist, Essential Cybersecurity for Arts Organizations offers a practical, integrated approach that combines technology, policies, training, and real-time monitoring, tailored to each organization’s size and capacity.

Charles Buchanan, Founder and CEO of Technology Helps, explains, “In our national work in the social purpose sector, we’ve seen devastating financial and data losses, uncoordinated responses to incidents, and the real operational harm that can follow. Cybersecurity is not optional; it’s an essential part of good governance, risk, and compliance. It requires technical expertise, a strategic approach, and informed users.”

Organizations selected for the program will receive a full cybersecurity assessment, which examines email systems, ticketing platforms, CRM and donor databases, financial software, and third-party tools. This assessment will identify vulnerabilities and provide a clear, prioritized action plan to strengthen protections where they matter most.

Following the assessment, participating organizations will receive one full year of EverSecure services at no cost (normally up to $5,000 per year). This includes protective technologies such as secure email filtering, multi-factor authentication, endpoint protection, and validated backups, as well as continuous monitoring and expert response to potential threats. Importantly, the program also emphasizes human-centred defence, with ongoing staff training and phishing simulations designed to build awareness and good digital habits across the organization.

There is no requirement to continue with EverSecure after the one year, and participating organizations will retain the protections, policies, and practices put in place, having established a strong cybersecurity base.

Applications are open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout 2026 until the program is full. Arts organizations operating in the Treaty 7 region that meet eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

For more information, please check our website at rozsafoundation.com/cybersecurity.

This program is a collaboration between the Rozsa Foundation, Calgary Arts Development, Calgary Foundation, and Technology Helps.