Two major security events, the Swiss Cyber Security Days (SCSD) in Bern and it-sa in Nuremberg, are moving closer together. The collaboration is intended to bring greater reach, more exchange, and more expertise. Nicolas Mayencourt, Program Director of SCSD, explains in an interview what this step means.

How did this collaboration come about?

Nicolas Mayencourt: The Swiss Cyber Security Days (SCSD) and it-sa Expo & Congress both aim to strengthen digital security and sovereignty in Europe. Both trade fairs address key cybersecurity challenges – with complementary strengths. The collaboration arose from the shared interest in creating synergies between the two platforms and promoting cross-border exchange within the DACH cyber community.

How comprehensive is the collaboration? Does it extend beyond the booths of the two trade fairs at their respective counterparts?

Yes, the partnership goes well beyond mutual booth presence. In addition to the physical presence at the respective trade fairs, it includes a coordinated communications and marketing partnership. Both sides raise awareness of the other event within their communities – via digital channels, newsletters, websites, and social media. In addition, there is a targeted exchange between those responsible for the program in order to optimally utilize thematic interfaces and set common priorities.

How do SCSD exhibitors and guests benefit from this partnership?

The partnership with it-sa creates an international bridge for SCSD exhibitors and visitors: They benefit from visibility within one of Europe's largest IT security platforms and gain early insights into trends, topics, and potential speakers. The exchange between the program teams also enables a stronger integration of the content of both events, which can result in an even more relevant conference program.

What are you planning for the Swiss Cyber Security Days booth at it-sa?

The SCSD booth at it-sa will be designed as a central communications platform for the Swiss Cybersecurity Hub. The goal is to inform visitors from industry, administration, and research about the SCSD, promote dialogue with potential exhibitors and speakers, and establish new contacts in the DACH region. Various interactive and content-related measures are planned to specifically stimulate interest in the SCSD.

What do you hope to achieve with this collaboration?

Cybercrime does not stop at national borders. With this partnership, the SCSD and it-sa are sending a joint message of European cooperation in cybersecurity. We hope for stronger networking within the industry, new impetus for both events – and, last but not least, the opportunity to inspire exhibitors and trade visitors across borders for our events.

The next edition of it-sa will take place from October 7 to 9, 2025, in Nuremberg. The SCSD will return on February 17 and 18, 2026. You can read more about this year's edition in the event reports here ("The hybrid war in Europe has begun"), here ("Switzerland's cyber situation, praise from the FBI, and danger for children"), and here ("Exhibitors praise the SCSD's visitor mix and networking party"). If you would like to read more about cybercrime and cybersecurity, sign up for the Swisscybersecurity.net newsletter here. On the portal, you can read daily news about current threats and new defense strategies.

Source: Coen Kaat and ml, Netzwoche, "The Swiss Cyber Security Days and it-sa are joining forces," September 11, 2025.

https://www.netzwoche.ch/news/2025-09-11/die-swiss-cyber-security-days-und-die-it-sa-verbandeln-sich