1. SBA General Cybersecurity Portal
This is the main hub for the SBA's educational content, top ten tips, and training modules.
Foundational Guidance: The SBA website provides a top-ten list of cybersecurity basics including:
Clean Machines: Guidance on maintaining updated software and browsers.
Firewalls: Basics on securing internet connections for office and remote workers.
Mobile Device Action Plans: Policy templates for securing employee devices.
2. Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program
This program funds state entities to provide direct assistance. You can find the list of active state grantees (such as Old Dominion University, University of Wyoming, and Ohio State University) and their contact details here:
Pilot Program Details: SBA 2023 Cybersecurity Grant Announcement
3. Mentorship, Planning, and Training Resources
The SBA hosts periodic webinars and self-paced training modules designed for non-technical owners. If you are looking for 1-on-1 business mentorship or help reviewing a security-related business plan, the SBA’s "boots on the ground" network provides the most localized help.
2026 Cybersecurity Webinar Series: The SBA frequently schedules sessions like "Kickstarting 2026: Cybersecurity Hot Topics" and "Strategic Cybersecurity Practices". These often cover current trends like AI-driven scams and ransomware.
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): The SBDCs provide practical tools like the Small Business Cybersecurity Workbook and Written Information Security Plan (WISP) templates. Many SBDCs have dedicated "Cyber Industry Experts" who offer 1-on-1 counseling.
SBDC Local Office Locator: sba.gov/local-assistance
SBDC Cybersecurity Resource Center: americassbdc.org/cybersecurity
Direct Workbook/WISP Templates (via SBDC): wsbdc.org/cybersecurity
SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives): Provides mentors—often retired IT executives—who can help you review your business plan for your cybersecurity service or advise on risk governance.
4. The Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program
The SBA doesn't typically award cybersecurity grants directly to business owners. Instead, they fund state agencies and universities to provide free or low-cost services.
Active 2024–2026 Partners: If you are located near or do business in these regions, you can access direct support (assessments and counseling) from:
Dakota State University
Eastern Washington University
University of Texas at San Antonio
What they provide: Vulnerability scanning, risk assessments, and tailored "cyber hygiene" roadmaps.
5. Specialized Resources for Defense Contractors
For businesses looking to work with the Department of Defense (DOD) or meet federal security standards, these programs offer specialized training and assessments.
APEX Accelerators (formerly PTAC): These focus on helping businesses meet the CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) requirements needed to work with the Department of Defense.
Project Spectrum (Readiness & Compliance Platform): An SBA-supported, DOD-initiated platform that provides a free "readiness platform" for small businesses in the Defense Industrial Base.
6. Funding for Tech Upgrades
While not "cyber grants," SBA loan programs can be used to fund your security infrastructure:
7(a) Loans: Can be used to purchase hardware (firewalls, servers) or software subscriptions.
Working Capital Pilot (WCP) Program: A newer 2026 initiative that provides flexible credit lines which can be used to cover the operational costs of implementing a security suite.