The IQ Defence project (Grant No. 101249724) is structured into six interconnected Work Packages (WPs) implemented over 36 months under the DIGITAL-ECCC-2024-DEPLOY-CYBER-07 call.

Each Work Package directly supports the implementation of the NIS2 Directive, the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), and the broader objectives of the Digital Europe Programme.

Lead: Algebra Bernays University (AU)
WP1 ensures robust governance, financial oversight, quality assurance, risk management, and regulatory compliance throughout the project’s lifecycle.

Key components include:

  • Project coordination and administrative management
  • Financial monitoring and EU compliance
  • Risk management and quality assurance framework
  • Data management and GDPR compliance
  • Establishment of an External Advisory Board with EU-wide representation

This Work Package guarantees structured execution, transparency, and accountability in line with the Grant Agreement obligations.

Lead: Milenium Promocija (MPR)

WP2 focuses on enhancing awareness and compliance-readiness among essential entities, SMEs, public authorities, and market surveillance bodies across the EU.

Core activities include:

  • Development of multilingual awareness materials (all EU languages)
  • Production of video campaigns on major cyber threats
  • Sector-specific case studies on NIS2 implementation
  • National-level workshops and seminars
  • Structured feedback and impact assessment

The objective is to reduce fragmentation in regulatory understanding and strengthen the harmonised implementation of NIS2 across Member States.

Lead: Algebra Bernays University (AU)
WP3 develops and delivers six EU-wide multilingual online training programmes:

  • Four trainings focused on NIS2
  • Two trainings focused on the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA)

Key outputs:

  • Multilingual cybersecurity training modules
  • Fully operational e-learning and testing platform
  • Train-the-trainer certification programme
  • Continuous evaluation and curriculum refinement

The platform enables structured pre-assessment, final evaluation, and certification pathways aligned with EU standards.

Lead: Milenium Promocija (MPR)
WP4 promotes structured cross-border cooperation and harmonised regulatory implementation across Member States.

Main actions include:

  • Regular policy coordination meetings
  • Annual Cybersecurity Conference Series
  • Regional NIS2 implementation seminars
  • Cross-border scenario-based exercises
  • Post-exercise policy recommendations

A dedicated online conference with Member State representatives will share Croatia’s experience with NIS2 transposition and foster EU-wide alignment.

Lead: Algebra Bernays University (AU)
WP5 develops and formalises cybersecurity occupational and qualification standards aligned with:

  • European Cybersecurity Skills Framework (ECSF)
  • Croatian Qualifications Framework (CQF)

Deliverables include:

  • 12+ occupational and qualification standards
  • ECSF-aligned micro-credentials framework
  • Integration into the Skills Map (Mapa vještina)
  • Promotional multimedia content on cybersecurity careers

This WP strengthens long-term workforce development and formal recognition of cybersecurity competencies across the EU.

Lead: Milenium Promocija (MPR)
WP6 ensures EU-wide visibility, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability of project outcomes.

Activities include:

  • Development of a structured communication strategy
  • Multilingual threat-awareness video production
  • Cybersecurity career promotion campaigns
  • Active digital communication channels
  • Public events, seminars, and dissemination activities

All communication activities comply with EU visibility and branding rules.