Governor Wes Moore announced a $4 million state investment on February 18, 2026, to equip Maryland workers, employers, and community groups for an economy transformed by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, building on themes from his February 11 State of the State address.
The funding, managed by the Maryland Department of Labor, splits into three grant programs: $2.5 million for internships and upskilling in lighthouse sectors like life sciences, information technology, aerospace and defense, and manufacturing, plus $1.5 million for supervised cybersecurity training via community-based cyber and AI clinics.
“Artificial Intelligence was considered science fiction just a few years ago. Today, it is a reality,” Moore said. “That’s why we need a broad-based strategy—not just for government, but for all of society. This investment is a continuation of our administration’s commitment to strengthening our workforce, and ensuring that pathways to work, wages, and wealth remain open to all as our state leads in a rapidly changing economy.”
“Maryland’s economy depends on people having access to real opportunities as industries evolve,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “We are creating clear pathways for Marylanders to start and advance careers in growth sectors. At the same time, we’re helping employers access the talent they need to compete and helping community organizations access cybersecurity services and AI skills that might otherwise be out of reach.”
The Maryland Lighthouse Industries and AI Internship Program allocates $1.5 million for experiential learning in lighthouse sectors. Eligible employers and partners can apply for grants up to $150,000 to fund internships, covering wages up to $10,000 per intern. Awardees handle recruitment, onboarding, and hands-on experience to link education with employment. Applications accept on a rolling basis until funds run out.
The Maryland Lighthouse Industries Upskilling and Reskilling Program offers $1 million in competitive grants up to $200,000 each for workforce partners such as nonprofits, higher education, and industry groups. Applicants must partner with at least three employers and align training with state needs. Proposals due April 24, 2026, with grants starting June 1. A pre-proposal conference is set for February 26; interested parties email Brittney Hansen at brittney.hansen@maryland.gov.
These programs stem from consultations with the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, which incorporated input from lighthouse sector leaders to promote confident, safe AI integration.
“As technology and industries evolve, employers need talent that can adapt. These investments give Marylanders practical experience and training that lead to real jobs in high-growth sectors,” said board Chair Delali Dzirasa. “The Governor’s Workforce Development Board is proud to support efforts that make our workforce more dynamic, more diverse, and future-ready.”
For cybersecurity, three organizations received $1.5 million through the Cyber Maryland Program to run clinics offering low- or no-cost services to schools, hospitals, nonprofits, small businesses, and other vulnerable entities. The initiative will train about 600 Marylanders while bolstering defenses against cyber threats.
Awardees include:
- Center for Critical Infrastructure Security: Statewide clinic focused on nonprofits safeguarding essential services.
- TCecure: Prince George’s County-anchored clinic serving defense industrial base organizations and training under-resourced students.
- Howard Community College: Expansion of an existing clinic, partnered with Frederick and Carroll community colleges, targeting small businesses and nonprofits in health, youth services, disability services, workforce development, and more.
“Establishing these three new cyber clinics marks a defining moment for our state,” said Cyber Maryland Board Chair Roger Austin. “Aligned with Cyber Maryland’s 2025 statewide plan, this is our first significant step in building a more robust, resilient cybersecurity workforce. These clinics will serve as hubs for cultivating talent and strengthening communities, helping Maryland lead in confronting cyber threats and in securing our digital future.”
Each clinic aims to train at least 200 professionals over the grant period, aligning with employer needs and enhancing statewide cyber resilience.
Southern Maryland, home to defense contractors, federal agencies, and growing tech sectors near naval installations and research hubs, stands to benefit directly from these workforce pathways in cybersecurity and emerging tech.