Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program
ID: 355250Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Small Business Administration (SBA)

Award Range

$1M - $1M

Eligible Applicants

State Governments

Funding Category

Consumer Protection

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/355250

Additional Information

https://www.grantsolutions.gov/gs/preaward/previewPublicAnnouncement.do?id=111818
Timeline
    Description

    The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering a funding opportunity through the Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity resources for small businesses via state government initiatives. This program invites state agencies, designated by their governors, to apply for grants ranging from $1,000,000 to $1,045,000, with no cost-sharing required, to develop projects that provide essential cybersecurity tools and training for small businesses. Given the alarming rise in cybercrimes targeting small enterprises, this initiative is crucial for strengthening their cybersecurity infrastructure during vulnerable growth phases. Interested applicants must submit their proposals by August 2, 2024, and can direct inquiries to the Grants.gov Customer Support at support@grants.gov or call 1-800-518-4726.

    Point(s) of Contact
    support@grants.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    FY24_Cybersecurity.pdf
    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Cybersecurity For Small Business Pilot Program, aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity capabilities of small businesses. The program, under NOFO Number OED-2024-001, invites proposals from state government entities to seek funding ranging from $1,000,000 to $1,045,000, with no cost-sharing required. The application period is open from July 2, 2024, until August 2, 2024. A key requirement includes a designation letter from the Governor (or equivalent) to authorize a designated signer. The impetus for this initiative stems from the alarming rise in cybercrimes reported by the FBI, particularly targeting small businesses that often lack adequate cybersecurity measures. With small businesses facing significant vulnerability and insufficient resources to tackle these issues, the SBA aims to provide them with necessary tools and resources through state-led projects. This funding opportunity highlights the federal government’s commitment to support small businesses in combating increasing cybersecurity threats, ensuring their safeguarding during critical growth phases. Queries regarding the NOFO can be directed to the Office of Entrepreneurship Education by July 15, 2024.
    FY24.pdf
    The document outlines the Small Business Administration's (SBA) Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program, providing guidance and answers to frequently asked questions regarding its funding opportunity (SB-OEDCS-24-001). It specifies eligibility criteria, indicating that only state agencies, designated by their governors, can apply as lead entities for cybersecurity education and services. Non-governmental organizations, including small businesses, cannot apply directly. Some states—Ohio, Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Virginia, and Wyoming—are excluded due to previous funding awards. The deadline for applications is August 2, 2024. The program prohibits state agencies from sub-granting funds to other organizations and allows joint applications by multiple states, provided each is eligible. Project directors can be contracted positions, and grants will be awarded for a maximum of 24 months. This initiative aims to enhance cybersecurity assistance for small businesses through designated state efforts, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure at the state level.
    NOFO.pdf
    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering a funding opportunity through the Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program (Funding Opportunity No. OED-2024-001) aimed at state government entities to enhance cybersecurity resources for small businesses. This initiative addresses the growing threats posed to small businesses, which often lack adequate cybersecurity measures. States eligible to apply for grants range from $1 million to $1,045,421, with the total funding available being $3,136,265 for the fiscal year 2024. The application window opens on July 2, 2024, and closes on August 2, 2024. Key eligibility criteria specify that applicants must be state agencies officially designated by their governors, with certain states (Ohio, Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Virginia, and Wyoming) excluded from participation. The proposal must demonstrate the state's capability to deliver effective cybersecurity training and support to small businesses, detailing collaboration with various partners, programmatic plans, and performance measures. SBA plans a rigorous review process to assess the viability and impact of submitted proposals. Applications that pass initial screenings will be evaluated based on established criteria including performance outcomes and contributions to small business cybersecurity improvements. The award grants are intended to empower states in fostering stronger cybersecurity frameworks for small enterprises during critical developmental phases.
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