Check Point and Ontic Achieve Government Security Authorizations

Federal News

Check Point and Ontic Achieve Government Security Authorizations

🔒 Cybersecurity 💻 Information Technology

Check Point Software Technologies and Ontic have recently secured key government cybersecurity authorizations that expand their eligibility to provide advanced security solutions across multiple government levels. Check Point's Infinity Platform for Government achieved GovRAMP Authorization in April 2026, extending its prior FedRAMP certification to include state, local, and tribal agencies, enabling a unified cybersecurity offering across all U.S. government sectors. Ontic obtained FedRAMP Moderate Authorization, allowing federal and public sector agencies to deploy its AI-powered Connected Intelligence Platform for enhanced physical security and threat management. These authorizations validate compliance with rigorous federal security standards and open significant opportunities for government contractors to support modernization and threat prevention initiatives.

  • Why this matters: Procurement professionals should note that these dual certifications facilitate streamlined acquisition processes for cybersecurity solutions across federal and SLED (state, local, tribal) governments.
  • Check Point's unified platform supports prevention-first, AI-powered cybersecurity aligned with evolving government compliance and threat environments.
  • Ontic's authorization enables integration of AI-driven physical security and incident management tools in mission-critical federal environments.
  • Contractors and vendors can leverage these authorizations to position offerings for upcoming cybersecurity modernization procurements and expand market access across government levels.

With the advances we’ve seen in AI threats 6 and the continued evolution in the threat landscape to come 6 cyber security is more mission-critical than ever.

— Check Point Representative

With Ontic’s FedRAMP Moderate Authorization, government agencies can trust that the technology is built for the demands of federal security. This enables teams to stay focused on their mission and shift from reactive approaches to a proactive, intelligence-led model 6leveraging AI to connect critical data, improve decision-making, and prevent threats before they escalate.

— Lukas Quanstrom, CEO of Ontic

GovRAMP Authorization reinforces Check Point's commitment to helping government agencies protect their most critical systems and data.

— Rachel Roberts, Americas President at Check Point Software Technologies

Agencies

Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, Government Risk and Authorization Management Program, Federal Government, State Government, Local Government

Vendors

Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., Check Point, Ontic

Locations

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Federal Event

FAA Hosts APEX Industry Day in Washington

🌐 Digital Infrastructure 🚚 Transportation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting an Industry Day on May 15, 2026, at the Bessie Coleman Conference Room in Washington, D.C., to present details about the Air Traffic Performance EXcellence System (APEX) initiative and improvements to the FAA Academy training system. This event is designed to inform U.S. industry partners about the FAA's strategic vision for enhancing air traffic controller training and performance measurement capabilities. While no direct procurement opportunities are announced at this time, the session provides critical insights into upcoming modernization efforts that may influence future contracting and service requirements.

  • The FAA's focus on aligning training systems with performance intelligence signals potential future solicitations for technology, training services, and performance analytics solutions.
  • Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on performance excellence and controller training modernization as key areas for business development.
  • Industry participants can leverage this event to better understand FAA priorities and prepare for forthcoming opportunities related to air traffic management and training system enhancements.
  • Registration is limited to U.S. citizens, underscoring the importance of domestic industry engagement in FAA modernization programs.

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Federal Event

VA Hosts NCA Virtual Industry Day

📋 Contracting Vehicles 🏥 Healthcare

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) is hosting a virtual industry day on June 10, 2026, to inform small businesses about upcoming contracting opportunities with the National Cemetery Administration (NCA). This event will provide an overview of potential business opportunities primarily related to landscaping services under NAICS code 561730. While not a solicitation, the event is designed to help small businesses understand the scope of future procurements and prepare for participation.

  • Why this matters: Small businesses interested in federal contracting with the NCA should attend to gain early insight into upcoming opportunities and requirements.
  • The focus on landscaping services indicates ongoing maintenance and groundskeeping needs at national cemeteries.
  • Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on small and disadvantaged business participation, aligning with VA's goals to expand supplier diversity.
  • Companies can use this event to network, clarify procurement processes, and position themselves for future solicitations with the NCA.

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State & Local News

Florida DEP Funds Green Cove Springs Water Facility

🏛️ Physical Infrastructure Energy & Utilities

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has provided financial support for the Harbor Road Water Reclamation Facility project in Green Cove Springs through low-interest Clean Water State Revolving Fund loans and a Small Community Wastewater Construction Grant awarded on November 12, 2025. This initiative involves advanced wastewater treatment technology and expansion of the reclaimed water system, replacing the existing South Water Reclamation Facility and modifying the transmission system to redirect flow to the new facility. The funding supports infrastructure modernization aimed at improving water quality and sustainability in the region.

  • Why this matters: Procurement professionals should note the availability of state-level revolving fund loans and grants for wastewater infrastructure projects, which can influence project financing and contracting strategies.
  • The project presents opportunities for contractors specializing in advanced wastewater treatment systems and reclaimed water infrastructure.
  • Organizations involved in water infrastructure should consider the implications of system upgrades and transmission modifications for future bidding and project planning.
  • The Florida DEP contact information (Public.Services@FloridaDEP.gov, 850-245-2118) provides a direct channel for inquiries related to procurement and project participation.

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State & Local News

Florida DEP Funds Destin Recreation Area

🏛️ Physical Infrastructure 🌳 Environment

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) awarded a $12.5 million grant on April 28, 2026, to fund the Norriego Point Stabilization Project and recreation area development in Destin, Florida. This funding, sourced from the Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment program, supports shoreline restoration, erosion control, and enhancement of public recreational facilities including ADA-compliant access and amenities. This project reflects ongoing state efforts to restore natural resources impacted by environmental damage and improve public access to coastal areas.

  • Procurement professionals should note the significant state-level funding opportunity focused on environmental restoration and public infrastructure enhancement.
  • Contractors specializing in shoreline stabilization, erosion control, and ADA-compliant recreational facility construction may find relevant opportunities.
  • The involvement of the Florida DEP and its Division of Water Restoration Assistance indicates potential for future related projects funded through environmental damage assessment programs.
  • Organizations can leverage this development to align proposals with state environmental priorities and public access improvements in coastal regions.

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Federal News

USDA Relocates Research Funding to West Virginia

💰 Grants & Funding Energy & Utilities

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has initiated a reorganization of its Research, Education, and Economics Mission Area, relocating over $6 million in research funding and associated jobs to West Virginia. This strategic move, announced in late April 2026, aims to enhance agricultural innovation and food security by situating research activities closer to farming communities in Kearneysville, Leetown, and Martinsburg. Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito have publicly supported this relocation, emphasizing its potential to better align USDA research with local agricultural needs and expand the state's role in agricultural development.

  • Why this matters: Procurement professionals should anticipate increased contracting opportunities related to agricultural research, infrastructure, and support services in West Virginia.
  • Vendors and contractors with expertise in agricultural science, research facility operations, and community engagement may find new business prospects as USDA expands its presence in the region.
  • This relocation signals a broader federal trend toward decentralizing research activities to improve responsiveness to local agricultural challenges, which may influence future procurement strategies.
  • Organizations should consider building relationships with USDA offices and local stakeholders in West Virginia to position themselves for upcoming solicitations and partnerships.

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Federal News

Illinois Secures $22M for Port Infrastructure

🏛️ Physical Infrastructure 🚚 Transportation 🏗️ Construction & Infrastructure

The Maritime Administration has allocated over $22 million in federal funding through the Port Infrastructure Development Program to support critical infrastructure projects at the Kaskaskia and Seneca Regional Port Districts in Illinois. Announced by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin on April 29, 2026, these investments aim to enhance cargo handling capacity, safety, and operational efficiency along the Illinois River corridor, reinforcing the state's role as a major commerce hub.

  • The funding includes approximately $11.25 million for constructing a new 200-foot South Dock with concrete pad, access road, and rail connections at Kaskaskia Regional Port District.
  • An additional $11.22 million supports building a fertilizer storage, blending, and bagging facility with related infrastructure at Seneca Regional Port District.
  • Procurement professionals and contractors specializing in port construction, logistics infrastructure, and materials handling should evaluate upcoming solicitations related to these projects.
  • These investments signal continued federal commitment to modernizing inland port facilities, presenting opportunities for firms with expertise in maritime infrastructure and regional economic development.

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State & Local News

Virginia Expands Veteran Apprenticeship Programs

💰 Grants & Funding 🏛️ Physical Infrastructure 📚 Education Energy & Utilities

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger launched the Virginia Veteran Registered Apprenticeship Muster at Fort Eustis and signed bipartisan legislation enhancing workforce development through increased flexibility in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds. These initiatives specifically target transitioning servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses, aiming to connect them with high-demand apprenticeship opportunities, particularly in the offshore wind industry. The programs are supported by Virginia Workforce Boards, local educational institutions, and bipartisan legislative efforts to strengthen the skilled labor pool and support economic growth in the Commonwealth.

  • Key agencies involved: Commonwealth of Virginia, Virginia Workforce Boards, Virginia Peninsula Community College, Norfolk State University
  • Why this matters: Procurement professionals should note the expanded use of WIOA funds and new apprenticeship programs as potential avenues for workforce development contracts and partnerships, especially in renewable energy sectors like offshore wind
  • The Veteran Registered Apprenticeship Muster event at Fort Eustis signals increased demand for apprenticeship-related services and career event support
  • Organizations serving veterans and transitioning military personnel can leverage these initiatives to align offerings with state workforce priorities and funding opportunities
  • The bipartisan legislative backing indicates sustained support and potential for future program expansions in Virginia's skilled labor development efforts

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Federal News

Senate Advances Energy Permitting Reform Legislation

Regulatory Compliance Energy & Utilities

Senator Dave McCormick introduced the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act aimed at streamlining federal permitting processes for energy infrastructure projects, including water permits, LNG export approvals, nuclear licensing, and NEPA litigation reforms. This legislation seeks to reduce project delays and costs, thereby accelerating infrastructure development and enhancing energy competitiveness. The bill has garnered support from industry leaders and labor organizations emphasizing the need for clear rules and predictable timelines to unlock critical infrastructure and support energy reliability.

  • Procurement professionals should anticipate changes in federal permitting timelines and requirements that could impact project schedules and contract execution for energy infrastructure.
  • Contractors and vendors in energy sectors, especially in Pennsylvania, may find increased opportunities as permitting bottlenecks are addressed, potentially accelerating project starts.
  • Agencies involved in infrastructure approvals may need to adjust processes to comply with new streamlined procedures, affecting procurement planning and risk management.
  • Organizations should evaluate how reforms to NEPA and Clean Water Act implementation could influence environmental compliance obligations and litigation risks.

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Texas Awards Workforce Training Grants

State & Local News

Texas Awards Workforce Training Grants

💰 Grants & Funding 📚 Education

The State of Texas, led by Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) alongside the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), has awarded and announced over $20 million in grants to support career and technical education programs across multiple regions including the Panhandle and Dallas-Fort Worth areas. These grants fund training for thousands of students in high-demand occupations such as nursing, welding, aircraft mechanics, and truck driving, and support public colleges and technical schools in developing or expanding credential programs aligned with workforce needs. The grant programs include Jobs and Education for Texans (JET), Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE), and Texas Invests in Meaningful Employment (TIME), with application deadlines in May and July 2026.

  • Key agencies involved: Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and multiple independent school districts and colleges across Texas
  • Why this matters: These grants represent significant state investment in workforce development, creating procurement opportunities for educational institutions and training providers to acquire equipment and develop programs
  • Actionable insights: Procurement professionals should prepare for upcoming grant application deadlines and potential contract awards supporting workforce education; contractors specializing in training equipment and educational services may find increased demand
  • Regional focus: Opportunities span rural Panhandle areas and urban Dallas-Fort Worth, indicating diverse geographic procurement needs within Texas

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Federal News

Federal Reserve Chair Powell Extends Tenure

Regulatory Compliance 📜 Policy 💼 Professional Services 💻 Information Technology

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has announced he will remain on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors beyond his chair term ending May 15, 2026, citing ongoing legal and political pressures that threaten the Fed's independence. This decision follows a closed criminal investigation related to the Fed's headquarters renovation and reflects concerns about political interference in monetary policy operations. Concurrently, Senators Ruben Gallego, Angela Alsobrooks, and colleagues have questioned Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh on inconsistencies between his Senate testimony and public statements by former President Trump regarding interest rate policies, underscoring congressional scrutiny over Fed transparency and independence.

  • Why this matters: Federal Reserve leadership stability and independence are critical for consistent monetary policy and financial market confidence, impacting government contracting related to Fed operations and infrastructure.
  • Procurement professionals should note potential impacts on Fed-related contracts, especially those tied to facilities management and security at the Federal Reserve Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
  • The heightened congressional oversight signals increased transparency expectations, which may influence future procurement requirements and compliance standards for vendors serving the Federal Reserve.
  • Contractors engaged in legal, investigative, or consulting services related to federal financial institutions may find emerging opportunities as the Fed navigates these political and legal challenges.

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