The Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program (colloquially known as the Cybersecurity Pilot Program) is a federal initiative designed to help eligible institutions enhance their network security. This program also seeks to benchmark overall need for further cybersecurity funding in K-12 institutions, beyond what’s currently available.
Funds from this pilot program can be applied to a variety of contemporary cybersecurity solutions, including next-generation firewalls, endpoint security, identity authentication, and more.
The LTC supports K-12 institutions as they apply for this pilot program, from needs assessments to solution identification.
Cybersecurity Pilot Program will make up to $200 million available over a three-year period to eligible schools and libraries. These funds can be used to support a wide variety of cybersecurity services and equipment that protect school networks and data from digital threats.
Eligible services fall into four broad categories:
Important: The program is funded via the Universal Service Fund but is separate from the E-Rate program.
Schools and libraries that meet the E-Rate program’s eligibility requirements may apply to participate in this pilot program.
Program applicants need not be a current or former E-Rate program applicant in order to be eligible to apply for this pilot.
Though funds in this pilot program are limited, all eligible K-12 schools and districts in Illinois are encouraged to apply. This will help inform the FCC’s decision-making regarding future rounds of cybersecurity-focused funding.
Part 1 of this application process (Form 484) will open September 17, 2024. Part 1 will close on November 1, 2024.
Part 2 will only be completed by institutions chosen for the pilot program. Details about these deadlines will be shared at a later date.
Applicants are encouraged to follow updates about deadlines on the LTC Community.
This pilot program will utilize a two-part application process. In Part One (Form 484) of the application, applicants will be required to provide:
All interested institutions should complete and submit Part One during the current application period. This form must be completed using the USAC One Portal, where some information will be auto-populated with USAC/E-Rate information already on file. If your institution has not previously applied for E-Rate, contact USAC customer service for assistance.
If selected, participants will move onto Part Two of the pilot program. During this step, participants will be required to provide more detailed information about their cybersecurity experiences, including information regarding:
To target available funds to the populations most in need of cybersecurity support, the FCC will award support to a combination of large and small and urban and rural schools and libraries, with an emphasis on funding projects that include low-income and Tribal applicants.
Want to know more about the FCC’s new K-12 Cybersecurity Pilot program? Join the LTC’s funding expert for program updates, guidance, and answers to your questions about the application process.
Want to know more about the FCC’s new K-12 Cybersecurity Pilot program? Join the LTC’s funding expert for program updates, guidance, and answers to your questions about the application process.
Want to know more about the FCC’s new K-12 Cybersecurity Pilot program? Join the LTC’s funding expert for program updates, guidance, and answers to your questions about the application process.
The LTC provides the following complimentary consulting services to Illinois schools:
While the LTC offers foundational Cybersecurity Pilot Program consulting, we recommend engaging a private consultant if comprehensive support is needed.
