The Governor’s Public Safety Office is now accepting grant applications for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). Texas received $40 million for the next four years to support both state and local efforts to address cyber risks. A minimum of 80 percent of allocations must be passed through to local governments. In addition, at least 25 percent of the total funds made available under the grant must be passed through to rural communities (less than 50,000 population).
Where to Start
Counties that do not know where to begin in terms of their cybersecurity posture should consider using the MS-ISAC Nationwide Cyber Security Review (NCSR). The NCSR is a programmatic requirement to be eligible for the SLCGP and is open until the end of February 2024. Most counties are probably familiar with the NCSR since it has been an eligibility requirement for other FEMA programs. The NCSR may help counties better understand and prioritize their cybersecurity needs. All projects must align with the approved SLCGP plan.
How to Apply
To apply for this cybersecurity grant, go to https://egrants.gov.texas.gov/ and click on “Funding Opportunities” at the top of the page.
Once applications are received, the Cybersecurity Planning Committee will work collaboratively across the state to identify and prioritize individual projects that align with the Cybersecurity Plan. Funding for projects will be released within 45 days after approval by the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency.
If you have questions, please email dirsecurity@dir.texas.gov.