Beverly Awarded $10K Cybersecurity Grant

BEVERLY, MA — Beverly was awarded a $9,995 risk management grant from the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association to strengthen cybersecurity preparedness.

The city said the grant will help Beverly continue receiving time-sensitive alerts about software vulnerabilities, along with best practices and resources related to cyber incidents. That support is intended to reduce the risk of breaches, disruptions and related losses affecting municipal systems and data.

"MS-ISAC membership is critical for awareness and prevention of emerging cybersecurity threats as well as providing resources and guidance should a cyberattack penetrate our defenses," Beverly Director of Information Technology Russ Fisk said.

Mayor Michael Cahill said the city views cybersecurity as a core responsibility tied to protecting public systems and sensitive information.

"The city of Beverly is committed to supporting strong cybersecurity measures to protect our computer systems and to ensure our sensitive electronic data is safe," Cahill said. "It is of paramount importance for the city to prevent cybercrimes such as malware attacks, data breaches, ransomware, phishing, hacking and piracy schemes."

The award is part of MIIA's fiscal year 2026 risk management grant program, which is now in its 24th year. MIIA said the program awarded a total of $1 million to 146 members for projects and practices aimed at protecting employees, buildings, infrastructure and other public assets.

"This grant program is about helping members take practical steps to reduce risk and strengthen resilience," said Stan Corcoran, Senior Executive and MIIA Executive Vice President. "Our focus this year was to empower members to effectively address the growing challenges of evolving weather patterns, employee health and safety, and emerging cybersecurity threats."