TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced more than $350,000 has been made available to Chipola College to expand its cybersecurity training program through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund. This program will support training and certification opportunities in network security and digital forensics.

“Considering the threats we see from nations like China, Russia and Iran, we believe that cybersecurity will continue to be a growing part of our workforce, and I’m proud to announce these funds to equip more Floridians with the skills they need to be a part of this field,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “My administration remains committed to providing Floridians with access to workforce training that they can use to move our state forward while providing for their families.”

The $354,000 Florida Job Growth Grant Fund award will help Chipola College expand its cybersecurity program and provide enrollees with access to up to eight cybersecurity certifications. Training offered by this program will be transferable across many different industries and occupations, both in the public and private sectors. The funding will be used to support the cost of equipment, personnel, scholarships, training materials and support services.

“Governor DeSantis understands that Florida’s cyber security relies on a ready pool of trained talent,” said Secretary Dane Eagle of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO). “Funding programs that train our workforce to respond to 21st-century cyber threats is not only smart, but it is a critical investment for our state.

“Through the funding announced today, Chipola College will be able to attract more students and offer educational programs and training opportunities in industries vital to Florida’s growing workforce,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce Jamal Sowell, President & CEO of Enterprise Florida, Inc (EFI). “We thank Governor DeSantis for his continued investment in educational and workforce opportunities throughout the state.”

The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an economic development program designed to promote public infrastructure and workforce training across the state. Proposals are reviewed by DEO and EFI and chosen by the Governor to meet the demands for workforce training or infrastructure needs in communities around the state.

In 2021-22, more than $74 million is available for projects that focus on rapidly developing a highly skilled workforce and on infrastructure initiatives that attract businesses, create jobs, and promote economic growth. DEO and EFI are currently accepting proposals. For more information, click here.

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