MARYLAND COMMERCE RECEIVES $1.1 MILLION FEDERAL GRANT TO ENHANCE DEFENSE PROGRAM
DCAP helps assist companies in navigating compliance with federal cybersecurity regulations
BALTIMORE, MD (May 18, 2021) – The Maryland Department of Commerce, in coordination with the Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MD MEP), has been awarded a third federal grant to support the Maryland Defense Cybersecurity Assistance Program (DCAP). The $1.1 million grant will help Maryland defense contractors comply with federal cybersecurity standards in order to provide services to the federal government. Noncompliance with regulations may cause a company to lose a federal contract, resulting in loss of revenue and jobs, and DCAP is designed to minimize or eliminate that risk.
The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Defense’s Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, formerly known as the Office of Economic Adjustment. The federal agency has previously awarded two rounds of funding to DCAP, totaling nearly $1.03 million.
“With an increased need for cybersecurity compliance assistance, DCAP serves as an excellent resource for our defense contractors and keeps our Maryland companies prepared to tackle new contracts and challenges along the way,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “This significant new grant better equips Maryland Commerce and MD MEP to handle the demand for this program while assisting dozens of companies from across the state.”
Through MD MEP, DCAP provides Maryland defense businesses with educational resources, cybersecurity assessments, and funding to mitigate deficiencies, all in order to maintain compliance with federal regulations. Since the program launched in late 2018, nearly 100 businesses have received assistance, resulting in $500 million in retained sales, $155 million in increased sales, 2,961 retained jobs, and 136 new jobs.
“In partnership with the Maryland Department of Commerce, the Department of Defense, MD MEP, and most importantly industry partners, DCAP has enabled manufacturers and defense contractors to improve their cybersecurity posture, comply with the often difficult and costly requirements of cybersecurity and remain competitive in the market,” said MD MEP’s Executive Director, Michael Kelleher. “We look forward to continuing the program and creating opportunities for organizations to share knowledge, resources, and best practices into the future.”
Companies interested in applying to DCAP should visit this website for more information.
About Maryland Commerce
The Maryland Department of Commerce stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State’s many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the Arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit commerce.maryland.gov.
About MD MEP
The Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MD MEP) is a Maryland independent non-profit funded by industry and the State of Maryland to grow and strengthen Maryland manufacturing.
