SBA kicks off new cybersecurity grant program for small business

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has begun accepting applications for a new pilot program dedicated to help small businesses bulk up and develop stronger cybersecurity. Funding is designed to provide training and tailored cyber services for small companies across all industries.

Known as the Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program, $3 million in funding is being provided. The program is being run through the SBA’s Office of Entrepreneurial Development. Applications are being accepted, open from Jan. 26, 2022 through March 3, 2022.

In a survey from the SBA, roughly 88 percent of small-business owners felt their business was vulnerable to a cyber attack. One caveat is that small-business owners can’t apply directly for the program, but rather will have to wait for grants to work through state programs.

“The bottom line is we must do more to help small businesses combat cybersecurity threats, which continue to increase, evolve and inhibit,” SBA Associate Administrator for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development, Mark Madrid, said. “This pilot program will empower state governments to expand existing services, innovate, adapt to current environments, develop new resources, and scale solutions to assist more small businesses. Additionally, expanding access to underserved and underrepresented small business ecosystems will be a critical marker of success.”

Read more about the program on the SBA website here.