At the ITA Showcase, I sat down with Bob Young of FIFO Networks to discuss an emerging challenge for utilities and telecom carriers: meeting new federal cybersecurity requirements for broadband grants. As a cybersecurity consultant for public utilities, Bob is helping organizations navigate these evolving regulations—ensuring they secure funding while protecting critical infrastructure.

Why Cybersecurity is Now a Requirement for Federal Grants

Until recently, federal broadband grants did not require cybersecurity compliance. The Rural Broadband Initiatives focused on expanding fiber networks in underserved areas without specific security mandates. However, new regulations now tie funding eligibility to cybersecurity readiness. "The cybersecurity requirements seem scary at first," Young explained. "But the reality is, they’ve provided a well-laid-out process with clear goals. It can be done without adding much expense at all."

What Grant Applicants Need to Know

To qualify for funding, applicants must complete:

A Cybersecurity Assessment – Identifies security risks and vulnerabilities

A Cybersecurity Plan – Details how the organization will mitigate those risks

These documents must be submitted with grant applications, ensuring recipients not only build broadband infrastructure but also protect it.

The Standards Behind These Requirements

The government’s Cybersecurity Playbook draws from two key frameworks:

NIST Cybersecurity Framework – Developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology

CISA Cybersecurity Performance Goals (CPGs) – Created by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

These frameworks provide a roadmap for securing telecom and utility networks—critical as broadband infrastructure becomes part of national security.

How FIFO Networks Helps Utilities Stay Secure

FIFO Networks works with public utilities and telecom carriers to implement these security measures. Whether a company needs full-service consulting or just an extra set of eyes to support an internal CISO or IT director, Young ensures organizations comply with federal requirements while keeping costs manageable.

Beyond Compliance: Reducing Cyber Risk

Beyond meeting grant requirements, Young challenges conventional wisdom on cybersecurity, urging companies to rethink centralization and internet reliance.

"Once you connect your data to the internet, you create a global attack surface," he explained. "If you connect two data centers with a dedicated private circuit instead, it costs more—but it’s infinitely more secure."

Learn More

For utilities, ISPs, and telecom operators looking to secure federal grants while strengthening cybersecurity, FIFO Networks provides specialized consulting services. Visit www.fifonetworks.com