DHS Announces $40M to Support Cybersecurity Focused COEs, Free Cybersecurity Training for Vets

In August, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced over $40 million in available federal funding for a new DHS Center of Excellence (COE) for Homeland Security Quantitative Analysis via two federal funding opportunities (FFO). DHS will commit up to $40 million to an institution of higher education to act as the lead center for a network of COEs. In addition, DHS also is accepting applications for potential partners to work with the lead institution in support of the center’s activities. The proposed COEs will conduct end user-focused research to enhance the application of analytic tools that support real-time decision making and address homeland security-related threats and hazards. The deadline for submitting proposals is November 1. DHS also announced that it will provide free cybersecurity training and certification prep courses to military veterans through a new partnership with Hire our Heroes– a nonprofit focused on providing workforce services to transitioning military members.

The partnership will provide veterans with access to Federal Virtual Training Environment (FedVTE) – an online, on-demand training center with courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Veterans interested in launching their career in the cybersecurity field can take introductory cybersecurity courses, while experienced cybersecurity professionals can take advanced course curriculum.