LEE, Mass. — Patriot Armored Systems, LLC, has been awarded $30,000 to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure. 

 

The Healey-Driscoll administration and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s (MassTech) Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CAM) have awarded $540,473 to 20 Massachusetts-based manufacturers to upgrade their cybersecurity infrastructure. 

 

The grants were provided through the Manufacturing Cybersecurity Program (MCP), an initiative that supports small to medium-sized manufacturers across Massachusetts with capital funding to secure and improve their cybersecurity infrastructure.

 

With the funds, participating companies will be able to invest in badge readers, network switches and security appliances such as firewalls to address gaps in security. As a result, awardees will be able to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses and operate more efficiently. 

 

"Protecting manufacturers from cybersecurity threats will ensure the Massachusetts manufacturing ecosystem remains safe, secure and competitive," said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. "The MCP will empower manufacturers to grow and provide opportunities to access new markets while remaining protected from threats to their operations."

 

Launched in 2023, the MCP is a Massachusetts Manufacturing Accelerate Program (MMAP) program that allows Massachusetts manufacturers to better protect their businesses by establishing a more secure cybersecurity framework. The program also connects manufacturers with nonprofit partners to foster an ecosystem of support and collaboration. These partnerships assist manufacturers with assessments, requirements, equipment acquisition and other cybersecurity needs. By investing in critical cybersecurity upgrades, MCP helps drive business growth, increases job opportunities and strengthens the supply chain.

 

"Through this program, CAM aims to not only help small and medium manufacturers grow, but also to become more resilient," said CAM Director Lily Fitzgerald. "MCP enables manufacturers to invest in critical infrastructure while meeting customer demand. Overall, the program is essential for strengthening and securing the broader ecosystem here in Massachusetts."

 

Last month, CAM announced over $1 million to manufacturing projects across the state through its Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2), which bridges the gap between innovation and commercialization in hardtech manufacturing.

 

To be eligible for funding for MCP, manufacturers must partner with a higher education institution, non-profit or other public or quasi-public entity to promote collaboration and ecosystem growth. The application deadline for the next round of MCP funding is Friday, June 27.