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US DHS, Israeli National Cyber Directorate, and BIRD Foundation Announce Cybersecurity Call for Proposals

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Israel’s National Cyber Directorate, and the BIRD Foundation Announce a Cybersecurity Call for Proposals

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Israel’s National Cyber Directorate (INCD), and the BIRD Foundation are jointly launching a call for proposals focused on groundbreaking cybersecurity research and development. This collaborative initiative aims to foster innovation and strengthen cybersecurity capabilities in both the United States and Israel, addressing shared challenges in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

The call for proposals seeks innovative solutions across a broad spectrum of cybersecurity domains. Areas of particular interest include, but are not limited to artificial intelligence (AI) driven threat detection and response, advanced persistent threat (APT) mitigation, critical infrastructure protection, blockchain-based security solutions, and secure cloud computing architectures. Projects addressing the unique challenges of protecting election systems and securing software supply chains are also strongly encouraged.

This collaboration leverages the distinct expertise and resources of each participating entity. DHS brings its extensive experience in securing national infrastructure and responding to major cyber incidents. INCD contributes its deep understanding of emerging cyber threats and its leadership in the Israeli cybersecurity ecosystem. The BIRD Foundation provides crucial funding and support for collaborative R&D projects between U.S. and Israeli companies and research institutions.

The joint funding program will support collaborative projects led by U.S. and Israeli companies, or a combination thereof, in conjunction with relevant academic institutions. Funding awards will be substantial and will cover a significant portion of project costs. The selection process will prioritize projects demonstrating high technological innovation, clear market potential, and a strong potential for positive impact on cybersecurity capabilities. The selection committee, composed of experts from DHS, INCD, and the BIRD Foundation, will assess proposals based on their technical feasibility, commercial viability, and alignment with the program’s overall goals.

This initiative underscores the growing importance of international collaboration in cybersecurity. By combining the unique strengths of the U.S. and Israeli cybersecurity communities, this joint program aims to accelerate technological advancements and bolster global cybersecurity defenses against a complex array of emerging cyber threats. The program will be instrumental in strengthening the capabilities needed to confront ever-more sophisticated attacks against critical infrastructure, government agencies, and private sector entities.

Interested organizations are encouraged to review the detailed call for proposals document available on the BIRD Foundation website and the respective websites of DHS and INCD for specific submission guidelines, eligibility requirements, and deadlines. The application process will involve a detailed submission outlining the project’s objectives, methodology, team expertise, budget, and potential impact. Successful applicants will participate in regular progress meetings and provide periodic reports on their project’s advancement. Ultimately the aim is the development and implementation of solutions that offer significant advancements in cyber resilience and threat mitigation, providing lasting benefits to both nations.

The call for proposals is a landmark effort showcasing a shared commitment to enhancing cybersecurity readiness. It represents a critical step in strengthening the resilience of vital national infrastructure against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, both domestically and globally. Through collaborative innovation and resource sharing, this initiative promises to deliver transformative cybersecurity solutions that safeguard vital systems and data. This coordinated effort reflects the urgency to safeguard critical infrastructure, maintain the integrity of democratic processes, and foster a secure digital future for generations to come. The call for proposals underscores a profound understanding of the need for ongoing technological improvements to preemptively combat the latest threats and deter potential adversaries.

The program aims not only to develop cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies but also to nurture strategic partnerships between U.S. and Israeli entities, fostering future collaboration and the creation of a vibrant, internationally collaborative cybersecurity ecosystem. By investing in research and development, the program strengthens both countries’ technological capabilities while contributing to a safer global cyber environment. The comprehensive nature of the program encompasses all facets of cybersecurity from preventative measures to advanced detection capabilities, promising multifaceted protection and enhancing global readiness against threats.

Further details on the application process, including specific deadlines and required documentation, will be disseminated via official channels including the program websites. Interested parties are urged to monitor these websites diligently for any updates and to engage promptly given the high anticipated demand and the strategic nature of this initiative. Successful applicants will not only receive financial support but also gain access to a comprehensive network of experts and resources facilitating collaboration and accelerating the development and deployment of critical cybersecurity advancements.

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