The Federal Communications Commission has opened the application window for the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program.
During the application window, which runs through Nov. 1, 2024, eligible schools and libraries can apply to participate in the three-year, $200 million pilot program. The FCC explained that participants selected for the pilot program will receive support to defray the costs of eligible cybersecurity services and equipment, while providing the FCC with data to better understand whether and how universal service funds could be used to improve school and library defenses against increasing cyberattacks.
“School districts and libraries across the country have proven to be prime targets for cyber criminals. The vulnerabilities in the networks are real – and growing,” said FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel. “Through this pilot program, we’ll have a chance to better understand what equipment, services, and tools will help protect school and library broadband networks from cyberthreats.”
The FCC said it has modeled this pilot program after the successful Connected Care Pilot. The FCC also noted that the $200 million budget will use general universal service funds to ensure that gains in enhanced cybersecurity do not come at the cost of undermining E-Rate success in promoting digital equity and basic connectivity. The pilot program will also allow the FCC to share actionable data with Federal, state, and local government partners to jointly address this growing problem.
Interested schools and libraries can apply for the pilot program by providing basic information about their cybersecurity needs, experience, and plans to use the funding if selected in Part 1 of the application. If selected, pilot program participants will be required to provide more detailed information in Part 2 of the application to help the FCC determine whether and how to best use limited universal service funds to support the long-term cybersecurity needs of schools and libraries.
