# Connecticut Funds $2M Defense Cybersecurity Program

Connecticut launched the Defense CyberSecure Program (DCP) with **$2 million** in initial funding to help the state’s defense manufacturers strengthen cybersecurity and prepare for evolving federal contracting requirements, including CMMC Level 2. Administered by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, the program offers manufacturers financial resources and technical support. Cybersecurity service providers may seek to join its Qualified Provider Network, creating a potential route to serve manufacturers pursuing CMMC readiness; the signals do not specify provider application details or deadlines.

- Connecticut defense manufacturers can assess whether the program’s tiered financial resources and technical support could help address their cybersecurity-readiness needs.
- Cybersecurity service providers can evaluate potential participation in the Qualified Provider Network, but should note that no application process or solicitation details are provided.
- For contractors in the state’s defense supply chain, the program signals public investment in supplier cybersecurity and readiness for federal contracting expectations; it does not establish a universal compliance deadline.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Cybersecurity, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** November 02, 2026

### Government Entities
- Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
- State of Connecticut

### Key Quotes
> Our manufacturers need to be able to protect sensitive information, respond to evolving cybersecurity threats, and meet the expectations of the customers they serve. Through this ongoing investment, we are helping Connecticut companies strengthen their businesses, compete for new opportunities, and ensure our state remains a leader in defense manufacturing. Through DCP, we’re strengthening one of the nation’s premier defense manufacturing ecosystems while helping create opportunities for continued innovation, investment and job growth across our state.
> — Ned Lamont, Governor of Connecticut

> For our members and the broader maritime industrial base, this program strengthens supply chain resilience, supports operational readiness and helps ensure small and midsized manufacturers remain competitive in critical defense work.
> — Walker Potts, Executive Director, Naval Maritime Consortium

### Sources
- [Connecticut puts $2M to helping defense manufacturers strengthen cybersecurity](https://www.wtnh.com/news/connecticut/hartford/connecticut-puts-2m-to-helping-defense-manufacturers-strengthen-cybersecurity) - WTNH.com
- [CT invests big on cybersecurity to protect state's defense industry](https://www.courant.com/2026/11/02/ct-invests-big-on-cybersecurity-to-protect-states-vital-defense-industry-compete-for-future-business) - Hartford Courant