Tester Announces More Than $4 Million to Boost State and Local Cybersecurity in Montana

Funding will go to state and local governments to assist in managing and reducing cyber risk

Continuing his efforts to protect Montanans’ privacy and cybersecurity, U.S. Senator Jon Tester announced $4.95 million in grant funding to help state and local governments—particularly in rural communities—address cybersecurity risks and threats. This funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and is aimed at helping local communities implement plans to assess and combat cyber threats.

“Cybersecurity is the next frontier when it comes to national security threats we face from foreign adversaries, and it’s critical that Montana’s communities are prepared to handle those emerging threats,” said Tester. “Too often our local governments—particularly in rural parts of the state—are under-resourced when it comes to combating cyber crimes impacting their communities, which can have serious impacts on businesses and municipal operations. The resources we secured today will help these folks bolster defenses against cybersecurity threats and train in the best ways to combat them.”

Completed applications must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. ET on Friday, October 6, 2023, and more information can be found here: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/state-local-cybersecurity-grant-program

Senator Tester is a champion for Montana’s safety and security. He was the only member of the Montana delegation to support the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding bill , which funded the FEMA grant program and invested billions in our nations’ cybersecurity and defense.