The AI phase of industrial evolution is marked by a profound transformation in how humans and intelligent machines collaborate. The blurring of boundaries between physical and digital systems across the manufacturing landscape is accelerating, driven by advancements in automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things. 

This interconnectedness creates unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and customized production. However, it also exposes manufacturers to a new generation of cyber threats targeting industrial operations, supply chains, and increasingly-sophisticated production processes. Safeguarding these critical assets requires a holistic approach that transcends traditional boundaries and embraces sector-wide collaboration. 

To enhance our commitment to the manufacturing and industry sector, today we are announcing a new partnership with the Global Resilience Federation (GRF) by joining four of its affiliate groups: the Business Resilience Council (BRC), the Manufacturing Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MFG-ISAC), the Operational Technology Information Sharing and Analysis Center (OT-ISAC), and the Energy Analytic Security Exchange (EASE). Google Cloud is proud to be the first cloud service provider to partner with the GRF Business Resilience Council and its affiliates.

Through this partnership, Google Cloud will strengthen its commitment to the manufacturing industry by providing critical expertise and advanced security solutions. Our collaboration with industry leaders will focus on fortifying the resilience of manufacturing systems and supply chains against evolving cyber threats. This partnership underscores our dedication to supporting the manufacturing sector's digital transformation and modernization while ensuring the security and integrity of critical infrastructure. 

In today's interconnected world, safeguarding your organization demands a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond traditional measures. Google Cloud will devote resources and experts to work alongside industry leaders to transform, secure, and defend the Manufacturing  sector and will contribute to the manufacturing companies through a network of resources and expertise spanning IT, OT, industrial operations technology, supply chain, logistics, engineering technology, and product security, specifically designed to navigate the complexities of Industry 4.0 and 5.0.

This collaboration among professionals in cyber and physical security, geopolitical risk, business continuity, disaster recovery, and third-party risk management is critical for organizations with regional, national, and international footprints. In an era where the severity of cyber threats is constantly increasing, resilience is key. Partnerships fostered by GRF provide the knowledge and support necessary to maintain vigilance, manage crises, and navigate response scenarios to enable continuity of your operations.

As a GRF partner and a member of these four groups, Google Cloud will bring experts and resources — including unique insights from Mandiant, our Threat Horizon reports, and the Google Cloud Office of the CISO— to help the manufacturing and industry sector protect against cyberattacks. Google will work with defenders and sector leaders to share knowledge we’ve learned building and deploying secure technology.

This partnership is a continuation of our August 2021 commitment to invest at least $10 billion over five years to advance cybersecurity. This same commitment has enabled us to join other organizations including Health ISAC, Financial Services ISAC, and Electricity ISAC, so we can continue to support the security and resilience of our critical infrastructure across key sectors.

“Partnering with GRF and becoming a member of its affiliated groups BRC, MFG-ISAC, OT-ISAC, and EASE is a critical step in our commitment to help the manufacturing and industrial sectors transform and secure their critical infrastructure," said Phil Venables, VP and CISO, Google Cloud. "As a leading provider of cloud technologies and security solutions, we recognize the vital role these sectors play in driving economic growth and innovation. This partnership aligns with our dedication to supporting the modernization and resilience of manufacturing and industrial operations in the face of evolving cyber threats. By sharing our expertise and collaborating with industry leaders, we aim to raise awareness, develop innovative solutions, and strengthen the collective defense of these essential industries.”

“As a provider of innovative technology solutions, we recognize the vital role of the manufacturing and industrial sectors in driving our economy. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting their transformation and strengthening their defenses against evolving cyber threats. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we aim to foster a more secure and resilient future for these essential sectors,” said Nick Godfrey, senior director and global head, Office of the CISO, Google Cloud.

“Phil Venables and Google Cloud have long advocated for collaborative security and collective resilience, and their active role in the BRC and these communities brings invaluable expertise to help build a more secure ecosystem for businesses of all sizes — including their critical vendors and suppliers,” said Mark Orsi, CEO, GRF. “Google Cloud continues its leadership in advancing security and operational resilience across manufacturing, utilities, industrial, and critical infrastructure sectors — ultimately fostering a safer and more sustainable global supply chain.”