Funding Announced for First-Ever State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program

State and Local Government Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP)

The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 created the State and Local Cybersecurity Improvement Act, which contained a $1 billion State and Local Government Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) to state, local, tribal and territorial governments over four years.

Addressing Cybersecurity Risks

Per the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the grants are to be used to address cybersecurity risks and threats to information systems owned, operated or on behalf of state, local, tribal and territorial governments. The federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a Notice of Funding Opportunity including details on funding for governments.

Grant Awards Available Now

The first $184 million is currently available. States and territories will be the only entities that can apply for the initial grant awards. They must do so within 60 days of the funding opportunity notice (which was posted on September 16, 2022).

Local Government Access

Local entities receive sub-awards through states. The legislation requires states to distribute at least 80% of funds to local governments, with a minimum of 25% of the allocated funds distributed to rural areas.

If the State does not apply, CISA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may receive grant applications from local governments directly. There is a 10% non-federal cost share requirement for 2022, which may be either in cash or third-party-in-kind.  The cost share rises in future years.

To learn more about the State and Local Government Cybersecurity Grant Program or for additional guidance, our government industry advisors are here to help.

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