Maryland Launches $4.9 Million Cybersecurity Grant Program for Local Governments

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Maryland is offering significant funding opportunities to bolster the digital defenses of its state and local governments. The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) and the Department of Information Technology (DoIT), in collaboration with the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) Planning Committee, have announced the opening of applications for over $4.9 million in grants. This initiative, stemming from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to enhance cyber resilience across the state, with a substantial portion earmarked for local jurisdictions.

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The grant program, established by Congress, provides financial assistance to eligible entities to address evolving cybersecurity risks and threats targeting information systems. A key aspect of this funding allocation mandates that at least 80% of the total grant money will directly support local governments. Furthermore, to ensure equitable distribution of resources, 25% of the award is specifically reserved for rural jurisdictions, defined as areas with populations under 50,000 that are not designated as urbanized.

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All local governments within Maryland are eligible to apply, with the definition of “local governments” encompassing a wide range of entities, including counties, municipalities, cities, towns, school districts, and regional government bodies. The program defines “rural” based on population density and census designations, allowing jurisdictions to provide supporting documentation to verify their rural status.

The grant funding can be utilized for a variety of cybersecurity projects and services designed to strengthen cyber resilience. These efforts must align with priorities outlined by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Maryland SLCGP Committee within the state’s grant plan. Award decisions will be based on statutory requirements, the demonstrated needs of the applicants, the quality of their proposals, and their capacity to adhere to federal and state grant compliance regulations. Local governments interested in applying or learning more about the application process are directed to visit the Cyber Preparedness Unit’s funding page or contact slcgp.grant@maryland.gov.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and the Department of Information Technology.

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