As cybersecurity risks and technology demands continue to grow, states are exploring new ways to support local government capacity. New York’s renewed Local Government Efficiency Grant program offers funding for collaborative technology projects that improve service delivery while managing costs.
In a recent Government Technology article, New York has renewed its Local Government Efficiency Grant (LGEG) program, making $8 million available to help counties, municipalities, and other public agencies invest in technology upgrades, particularly cybersecurity and shared service initiatives. Administered by the New York Department of State, the program aims to help local governments address emerging operational challenges while improving efficiency through collaboration.
“The Local Government Efficiency program has shown the capacity to offer great economic returns for localities and expanding it will bring even more savings to New Yorkers,” said Walter Mosley, New York’s secretary of state, in the statement.
Officials designed the program to help local governments deal with “significant current and emerging challenges,” according to the statement.
The current funding round includes $7.2 million for implementation grants and $800,000 for planning grants. Implementation grants cap at $250,000 per participating agency and $1.25 million per project, with a required 10% local match. Planning grants may total up to $100,000 per project, with a higher 50% local match. Eligible projects emphasize multi-jurisdictional partnerships and may include cybersecurity and IT services, emergency services, code enforcement, municipal planning, water and wastewater management, and clean energy initiatives.
The program emphasizes shared services, including past awards that support regional public safety technology investments. Grant applications are evaluated based on need, return on investment, service delivery improvements, and the ability to complete projects within five years. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, school districts, public libraries, special districts, and regional planning entities.
