8 Essential Steps for Hosting Inclusive and Respectful Cybersecurity Events

Event hosts and organizers hold the power to shape the environment of their gatherings. But how can we ensure that our events—whether large conferences or smaller meetups—are not only successful but also inclusive and respectful?
As the largest provider of cybersecurity events in North America, hosting over 130 regional, CISO, and national gatherings, and with input and in partnership with a few of our valued ecosystem partners we’ve gathered valuable insights on running successful events for cybersecurity audiences. As we get into the swing of 2025, we want to share these guidelines with the broader cybersecurity community.
Why This Guide Is Essential for 2025
As you plan your events for 2025, ensuring you’re fostering inclusive and respectful environments has never been more essential in the cybersecurity space. However, knowing where to start and how to navigate potential challenges can be overwhelming. In support of your efforts, we offer our guide, How to Host Inclusive Cybersecurity Events That Foster Respect and Safe Spaces.
Designed specifically for event planners and sponsors, it covers key aspects of planning with actionable steps, important themes to consider, and thoughtful questions in each section to help ensure your event meets the diverse needs of the cybersecurity community in 2025.
What You’ll Find in the Guide
You’ll learn how to curate a diverse speaker lineup that truly reflects the richness of the cybersecurity community. We also provide helpful tips for selecting venues that are accessible and accommodate all attendees, ensuring everyone feels welcome. Additionally, the guide covers how to establish a clear code of conduct and facilitate respectful interactions among participants, helping to create an environment where everyone can engage and collaborate effectively.
Here’s a sneak preview of the core topics that the guide addresses:

Practical Strategies for the Future
These eight points for consideration are just the beginning. In partnership, every cybersecurity event can build a stronger, more diverse, and resilient cybersecurity community! To dive deeper into each of these points and gain actionable insights for planning your next inclusive event, download the full guide today.
Got additional ideas that aren’t represented here? We’d love to hear them. Reach out at contactus@cyberriskalliance.com.

Our team is here to help and answer any questions you might have on how best to implement this advice. Get in touch if we can help!