Essential Cybersecurity for Arts Organizations: A Vital Initiative for Southern Alberta

The Growing Importance of Cybersecurity

In today's digital age, arts organizations are increasingly relying on online ticketing, donor databases, and cloud-based collaboration tools. While these digital tools enhance efficiency and accessibility, they also introduce significant cybersecurity risks. Recent incidents in the nonprofit and arts sectors have highlighted the vulnerabilities organizations face, including phishing attacks, data breaches, and system disruptions. The consequences of these incidents can be severe.

To combat these challenges, the Rozsa Foundation, Calgary Arts Development, and Calgary Foundation have teamed up with Technology Helps to launch Essential Cybersecurity for Arts Organizations. This new program provides up to 25 arts organizations in Southern Alberta with access to EverSecure, a comprehensive cybersecurity program tailored specifically for nonprofits.

Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges

Many arts organizations struggle to prioritize cybersecurity due to limited time, staff, and resources. Recognizing this reality, the Essential Cybersecurity for Arts Organizations program offers a practical and integrated approach. Instead of a one-time workshop or a simple checklist, this initiative combines technology, policies, training, and real-time monitoring, customized to each organization’s size and capacity.

Charles Buchanan, Founder and CEO of Technology Helps, emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity: “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.”

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Assessment

Organizations selected for the program will undergo a full cybersecurity assessment. This assessment evaluates email systems, ticketing platforms, CRM and donor databases, financial software, and third-party tools. The goal is to 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 valued at up to $5,000 per year). This includes protective technologies such as secure email filtering, multi-factor authentication, endpoint protection, and validated backups. Continuous monitoring and expert responses to potential threats are also part of the package.

Human-Centered Defense

A key aspect of the program is its emphasis on human-centered defense. Ongoing staff training and phishing simulations are designed to build awareness and foster good digital habits across the organization. This proactive approach ensures that everyone within the organization is equipped to recognize and respond to potential threats.

There is no obligation to continue with EverSecure after the one-year period. Participating organizations will retain the protections, policies, and practices established during the program, creating a robust cybersecurity foundation.

Application Process

Applications for the program are open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout 2026, until the program reaches capacity. Arts organizations operating in the Treaty 7 region that meet the 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.*

Conclusion

The Essential Cybersecurity for Arts Organizations program is a vital initiative aimed at strengthening the cybersecurity posture of arts organizations in Southern Alberta. By providing tailored support and resources, this program helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of digital security. As the reliance on technology continues to grow, so does the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Participating in this program could be a significant step towards ensuring the safety and integrity of valuable data and operations.