District Support

Cybersecurity Pilot Program

Fueling a Safer Digital Learning Environment

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.

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Program Details

Funds & Eligible Services

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:

  • Advanced & Next-Generation Firewalls (for filtering and repelling external threats)
  • Endpoint Protection (for ensuring devices connected to institution networks are secure)
  • Identity Protection and Authentication (For verifying user identities)
  • Monitoring, Detection, and Response (For providing continuous surveillance of current and emerging digital threats)

Important: The program is funded via the Universal Service Fund but is separate from the E-Rate program.

Complete List of Eligible Services

Eligible Institutions

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.

Application Timeline

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.

Application Process & Selection

This pilot program will utilize a two-part application process. In Part One (Form 484) of the application, applicants will be required to provide:

  • General information about the institution seeking support, including their experience with cybersecurity matters.
  • A description of the goals and objectives to be achieved, including cybersecurity risks the proposed project will prevent or address.
  • Services and equipment to be purchased (and associated costs)

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:

  • Current cybersecurity posture
  • Current prevention and mitigation tactics
  • History of cyber threats and attacks (within a year of the date of the application)
  • Current cybersecurity training policies and procedures
  • Current Cybersecurity challenges faced

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.

Application Guide

Program Resources

Program Details
Further Reading

Our Services

The LTC provides the following complimentary consulting services to Illinois schools:

  • Application Support: Guidance on preparing and submitting Cybersecurity Pilot Program applications.
  • Compliance and Advocacy: Expert advice to navigate Cybersecurity Pilot Program rules and regulations.
  • Training and Workshops: Sessions to familiarize your staff with the Cybersecurity Pilot Program process and maximize your funding potential.

While the LTC offers foundational Cybersecurity Pilot Program consulting, we recommend engaging a private consultant if comprehensive support is needed.

Benefits to your District

  • Maximize Funding: Ensure full utilization of available Cybersecurity Pilot Program resources.
  • Streamlined Processes: Benefit from expert assistance in application and compliance procedures.
  • Empower Your Technology Goals: Leverage Cybersecurity Pilot Program funding to advance your district’s technology initiatives.
  • Zero Cost: All consulting services are provided at no charge to school districts.