State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program

The Mississippi Office of Homeland Security administers the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, a funding initiative designed to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure and resilience across state and local jurisdictions. This program is part of a broader national effort to address increasing cybersecurity risks that threaten public sector operations, critical infrastructure, and sensitive data systems. The Mississippi Office of Homeland Security serves as the coordinating agency, managing both the distribution of funds and the strategic priorities aligned with federal cybersecurity objectives. The program emphasizes collaboration between state agencies, local governments, and other public entities to build a unified and secure digital environment. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that align with four key objectives: developing and enhancing cybersecurity governance structures, assessing current cybersecurity posture, implementing appropriate security protections, and ensuring personnel are adequately trained. Applicants are expected to clearly demonstrate how their proposed projects meet one or more of these objectives. Priority is given to initiatives that directly address identified vulnerabilities and risks, particularly those uncovered through structured cybersecurity assessments. While projects outside these objectives may still be considered, they are secondary in priority. Funding may be used for a range of allowable cost categories including contractual services, equipment, commodities and supplies, and other related expenditures. The program places a strong emphasis on strategic investments that improve long-term cybersecurity capabilities. Additionally, the broader program structure requires that a significant portion of funds be directed to local jurisdictions, with a defined portion supporting rural communities. This ensures equitable distribution and addresses disparities in cybersecurity readiness across different regions. Eligibility for this specific funding cycle is limited to agencies and local entities that have already participated in earlier program batches and have submitted required documentation, including a Memorandum of Understanding and Consent forms. Entities that have not yet participated are not eligible for this cycle but may be considered for future funding opportunities anticipated to open later in the year. Eligible applicants include a wide range of public sector entities such as counties, municipalities, school districts, and other local government bodies as defined by federal guidance. The application process is conducted entirely online through an electronic submission system hosted by the Mississippi Office of Homeland Security. Applicants must complete all required fields and upload supporting documentation at the time of submission. Required materials include the most recent audit, cybersecurity assessments if available, NIMS certifications, and any additional justification statements. Incomplete applications are not accepted for review, and all submissions are time-stamped upon receipt to enforce strict adherence to deadlines. The application period for this funding cycle opens on January 15, 2026, and closes on February 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Two virtual grant writing sessions were offered to assist applicants in preparing their submissions, providing guidance on program priorities and application requirements. These sessions also served as an opportunity to clarify expectations and answer technical questions. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered unless additional funding becomes available. Evaluation of applications is based on alignment with program objectives, the extent to which proposed projects address critical cybersecurity gaps, and adherence to state and federal priorities. Funding is limited, and submission of an application does not guarantee an award. Applicants are encouraged to prioritize high-impact projects that demonstrate measurable improvements in cybersecurity posture. For questions or technical assistance, applicants may contact the program via email or phone through the Mississippi Office of Homeland Security.

Prioritize projects that directly align with cybersecurity objectives and address identified vulnerabilities ensure all required documents are complete at submission focus on high impact improvements to increase funding likelihood