From Cyber-Secure Local Government to New Digital Programs
The Cyber-Secure Local Government program, implemented under the European Funds for Digital Development (FERC 2021–2027), allowed local government units (JST) to obtain funding of up to 850,000 PLN for audits, implementation of security policies, training, and IT investments.
Although the recruitment has ended, its model – based on three pillars: organizational, competency, and technical – remains relevant. In 2025, similar activities can be carried out under FERC 2.5 and FERC 2.1, which support the development of digital skills and e-public services.
Current Sources of Funding for Cybersecurity of Local Government Units (2025)
FERC 2.5 – Support for Digital Skills (III Recruitment)
Recruitment deadline: until October 17, 2025.
Organizer: Center for Digital Poland Projects (CPPC)
Details of the recruitment on the gov.pl website
Program objective:
Enhancing the competencies of JST employees in the management of information, data, and cybersecurity.
Eligible activities:
- stationary and e-learning training,
- workshops on data protection, incident response, cyber hygiene,
- development of skills in data handling and information security management.
How ODO 24 Assists Local Government Units
- GDPR training and cybersecurity training for offices and subordinate units
- NIS2 training for management and executive staff
- E-learning on GDPR and information security – ideal for implementation across the entire JST
FERC 2.1 – High Quality and Availability of E-Public Services (V Recruitment)
Application deadline: by November 13, 2025
See the announcement on the CPPC website
Program objective:
Support for the digitization of processes in public administration and the development of electronic services provided for citizens and entrepreneurs.
Eligible activities:
- optimization of internal processes (workflow, documentation, data security),
- construction and development of public e-services,
- implementation of IT security measures and information security policies,
- strengthening the competencies of officials in managing security and data.
How ODO 24 assists local government units:
- Implementation of ISO 27001 and ISMS – documentation, procedures, policies, and security processes,
- Training for cybersecurity employees
- E-learning for cybersecurity employees
Training for boards oflocal government units on obligations arising from NIS2
What you can finance – three categories of activities
Tip:
Well-thought-out projects combine these three areas, creating a coherent plan for enhancing the cyber resilience of local governments.
Best Practices for Local Governments – How to Effectively Plan a Project
- Start with an audit – understand the current state of security and risks.
- Engage management – cybersecurity requires strategic and budgetary decisions.
- Think process-oriented – technical actions must stem from risk analysis and the ISMS plan.
- Invest in people – training and e-learning significantly increase the effectiveness of even the best security measures.
- Maintain documentation – audits, reports, and policies are not only a requirement but also evidence of due diligence.
Case: What the Cybersecure Local Government Program Taught Us
In the previous edition of the program, hundreds of local governments in Poland developed and implemented information security policies, trained employees, and established incident response procedures.
The conclusions remain relevant:
- Audit and maturity analysis are the foundation of every project.
- Management must actively support the ISMS.
- Training is as important as technology.
Therefore, ODO 24 continues to offer an updated service
Cybersecure Local Government with ODO 24 – encompassing audits, training, documentation, and support for projects co-financed by FERC and KPO.
How to Choose the Right Program for Local Governments?
Do you not know which program to choose?
Useful resources
- List of current CPPC calls (FERC, KPO)
- gov.pl – competitions for local government units
- NASK Guide “Cybersecure Local Government” (2023)
Free consultation with a DPO expert 24
Do you not know which actions in your office qualify for funding?
Do you want to prepare a audit, risk analysis, ISMS documentation, or training plan in accordance with FERC requirements?
Schedule a free consultation with a DPO expert 24 – together we will define the scope of the project and help select the appropriate actions.
Summary
Cybersecure Local Government 2025 is a continuation of the idea initiated in the previous program – now implemented through new FERC and KPO funds. With the appropriate combination of audits, training, and documentation, local government units can not only obtain funding but also significantly increase their resilience to incidents.
With the help of DPO 24, you will plan and implement a project in compliance with legal requirements and best practices – from risk analysis to ready ISMS documentation and a trained team.
