D5.2 - NERO training results and evaluation – Initial Versio

The NERO project aims at strengthening European SMEs’ cybersecurity posture. One integral part of this is designing and providing a training program that increases employees’ cybersecurity awareness and knowledge of best practices. The purpose of this deliverable is to report the results of the first training round conducted in February, March and April 2025. The trainings are evaluated using pre- and post-training questionnaires as well as reflections from both training providers and trainees. Results are then compared to the target values of previously defined key performance indicators that are derived from the eight training-related project indicators. The analysis reveals that most target values are met or almost met across all trainings. Merely completion rates are lower than expected for three out of four trainings, which may be attributed to participants not completing the post-training questionnaire. Moreover, based on the lessons learnt gathered from the reflections, recommendations for future training rounds are developed. These include to strengthen interconnectivity between training resources, to include short breaks in training sessions to expand the number and diversity of modules, and to offer digital certificates of participation.