DHS Announces Cybersecurity Grant Opportunity for State, Local and Territorial Governments

The Department of Homeland Security is now accepting applications from state, local and territorial governments for funding to strengthen their cyber defenses. Awardees will split $374.9 million in funding provided under the fiscal year 2023 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program.

Selected SLT governments may use the grant for various cybersecurity initiatives, including conducting cyber exercises, hiring cyber talents and improving capabilities to detect and mitigate cyber threats, the DHS said. According to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, a 2021 Wash100 awardee, the grants will enable SLT governments to secure their residents and critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and water systems.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will facilitate the grant award and allocation process while the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will provide the awardees with guidance on addressing cybersecurity issues. CISA Director Jen Easterly, a 2023 Wash100 awardee, said her agency will make a tool available to help communities strengthen their cyber defenses.

Applications for the grant opportunity will be accepted until Oct. 6.