# UMass Lowell Opens Lowell Cybersecurity Center

UMass Lowell opened its Cyber Security Operations Center in Lowell on October 29, 2026. A $300,000 grant from the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and MassCyberCenter helped establish the center, with additional support from Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC). It will provide cybersecurity guidance to local governments, businesses, nonprofits, and small- and medium-sized defense companies, while also training students. The announcement identifies no open solicitation or specific procurement, but establishes a regional resource relevant to organizations assessing cybersecurity capabilities and workforce development needs.

- Local government procurement teams and participating organizations can use the center’s cybersecurity guidance as a resource when evaluating security needs; the announcement does not specify services, pricing, or an engagement process.
- Defense contractors, particularly small and medium-sized firms, may benefit from the center’s stated focus on their cybersecurity needs and from its student training activity.
- The $300,000 grant and SAIC support demonstrate public and industry backing for the center’s establishment, but are not announced as contract opportunities.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Information Technology, Defense & Military
**Topics:** Cybersecurity, Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 29, 2026

### Government Entities
- University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell)
- Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech)
- MassCyberCenter
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing
- City of Lowell

### Vendors
- Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) (Center establishment supporter)

### Key Quotes
> Importantly, it is the only one built to support small- and medium-sized defense companies.
> — Lori Trahan, U.S. Representative

> The offense is continuing to expand; we need to make sure we are continuing to provide the defense.
> — Julie Chen, Chancellor of the University of Massachusetts Lowell

> That goes for municipalities, small and medium businesses, healthcare centers, you name it. Digital systems are everywhere, as are cyber challenges.
> — Ben Linville-Engler, Deputy Director of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative

### Sources
- [UMass Lowell opens new cybersecurity center](https://www.lowellsun.com/2026/10/29/umass-lowell-opens-new-cybersecurity-center) - Lowell Sun