State, CyberOhio launch $7 Million grant program to strengthen local government cybersecurity

Ohio is taking a proactive step in safeguarding its local governments against evolving cyber threats.  

Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted have announced a $7 million grant program through CyberOhio, aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity infrastructure of local government entities across the state. This new initiative is designed to help local governments acquire the necessary tools and services to bolster their cybersecurity defenses. 

In a recent announcement, DeWine emphasized the importance of staying ahead of cyber threats, noting that the state's local government partners play a critical role in protecting citizens and maintaining public trust.  

The CyberOhio Local Government Grant Program offers funding for a wide range of cybersecurity software and services. Eligible expenses include: 

• Endpoint protection 

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) 

• Secure mail 

• Vulnerability management 

• Migration to .gov domains 

• Cybersecurity Services from organizations such as the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) and the Center for Internet Security (CIS) 

To apply, local government entities need to prepare an application outlining their current cybersecurity posture, the specific software and services they seek funding for, and how the grant will enhance their cybersecurity resilience. The application process is designed to be straightforward, but it’s crucial for applicants to provide detailed and accurate information to increase their chances of receiving funding. 

In a LinkedIn post providing additional information, Ohio Cybersecurity Strategic Advisor Kirk Herath wrote, “Grant closes on September 16. Please get those proposals in. We're particularly interested in joint/collaborative proposals among public sector organizations. Collective defense is less expensive and more scalable.” 

Ohio’s new CyberOhio Local Government Grant Program is a significant step towards ensuring that local governments have the resources they need to protect against cyber threats. As technology becomes more integral to public services, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is more critical than ever. Local governments should take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their cybersecurity infrastructure and safeguard the communities they serve. 

For more information and to apply, visit Assisting Local Government Entities | CyberOhio. 

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