Forge Institute to collaborate with Arkansas Municipal League on cybersecurity protection

The Arkansas Municipal League (AML) has engaged in a strategic partnership with the Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC), a program of the Forge Institute.

This partnership provides crucial cybersecurity services and expertise to the municipalities of Arkansas and the small businesses in their communities, according to a statement from Forge.

The ACDC helps organizations boost their cyber defense readiness and cope with potentially devastating cyber attacks.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Forge Institute in this critical initiative,” said Mark Hayes, Executive Director for AML. ”The ACDC represents a significant stride towards our collective commitment to protecting our cities, towns and utilities from ever-increasing cyber threats. We strongly encourage all our member cities to take full advantage of the services provided by the ACDC to ensure they are protected against potential cyberattacks.”

The ACDC’s core objective is to promote cyber awareness, disseminate cybersecurity best practices, offer cybersecurity assessments, provide free webinar training, and provide additional support to small businesses in Arkansas. Wes Nickels, Forge Institute Chief of Staff & ACDC, revealed that several municipalities have already enlisted for the free assessments, and are actively distributing ACDC awareness materials to fortify the cyber defenses of their communities.

“The world is becoming increasingly digital, and with this shift, cybersecurity threats continue to evolve,” said Nickels. “Our collaboration with the Arkansas Municipal League is not just a partnership, it’s a vital step towards equipping our communities with the tools and knowledge they need to safeguard their data and infrastructure. This strategic collaboration goes beyond just protecting our cities; it extends to protecting our residents, our assets, and our future.”

Any Arkansas-based small business or municipality that’s interested in a free cyber assessment can request one at www.forge.institute/acdc.