Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey announced that her administration will roll out a cybersecurity grant program that will help local governments improve their cyber defenses.
The $1.4 million program, named the Cyber Resilient Massachusetts Grant Program, will be administered by the MassCyberCenter. Once up and running, the program will provide municipalities with grants to fund narrowly focused cybersecurity technology upgrades identified through vulnerability assessments. Additionally, state leaders said the grant program will help municipalities fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities and enable integrations with Security Operations Centers.
“We are confident that this program will strengthen cybersecurity statewide,” said John Petrozzelli, director of the MassCyberCenter. “Every community has their own unique set of technical challenges, so we are taking a localized approach that addresses those challenges head on. With so many great community partners in attendance, the Summit was a perfect place to announce this program and bring visibility to other state and federal efforts aimed at enhancing local cyber defense.”
The program was announced at the fourth annual Municipal Cybersecurity Summit at the DCU Center in Worcester. The summit brought together municipal leaders, first responders, utility providers, and IT professionals to discuss important issues including how to mitigate threats, take advantage of statewide resources, and discover new tools that can help bolster cybersecurity defenses.
“We are committed to ensuring that every city and town has the most advanced tools to protect against cyberattacks,” said Office of Economic Development Secretary Yvonne. “Given the enormous importance of cyber resiliency, we are working around the clock to empower local leaders, strengthen our workforce, and upgrade technology to keep our communities safe.”
