What's Happening?
The Maryland Department of Labor has announced the Cyber and AI Clinic Grant program as part of its Cyber Maryland initiative. This program aims to bolster the state's cybersecurity workforce by providing up to $500,000 in grants to eligible applicants, including colleges, workforce training providers, nonprofit organizations, and apprenticeship sponsors. These grants will support the establishment and operation of clinics that train residents for careers in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The initiative is designed to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in these fields, offering both technical and non-technical roles. The program builds on previous workforce development efforts and aims to train a minimum of 100 cyber professionals annually from 2027 to 2029.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals in Maryland, a state that sees thousands of unfilled positions each year. By investing in workforce development, Maryland is positioning itself to better protect against evolving cyber threats and to support organizations with limited cybersecurity capabilities, such as local schools and small businesses. The program also reflects a broader trend of states taking on more responsibility for cybersecurity as federal funding landscapes change. This investment not only enhances the state's talent pipeline but also strengthens its overall cybersecurity posture, benefiting both public and private sectors.
What's Next?
Proposals for the Cyber and AI Clinic Grant program are due by December 10, with grant selections to be announced in January 2026. The grant performance period will run from February 2026 through January 2029. Interested applicants can attend an informational conference on October 15 to learn more about the program. As the initiative progresses, it is expected to attract interest from educational institutions and organizations looking to expand their training capabilities in cybersecurity and AI.
