Manufacturing has been the most targeted industry for cyberattacks for four consecutive years, accounting for approximately 22-26% of all reported incidents worldwide. As production systems become more connected and digital supply chains expand, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting small and medium-sized manufacturing companies that often lack dedicated cybersecurity resources.
For many small manufacturers, the impact of a cyberattack can be catastrophic. Research shows that more than half of small businesses close within 12 months of experiencing a major data breach or ransomware attack. Production downtime, financial losses, stolen intellectual property and damaged customer trust can quickly threaten long-term business survival.
To help address this growing risk, the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center (GCITC) is providing no-cost cybersecurity services to eligible Georgia manufacturers, supply chain, and manufacturing adjacent local governments through the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (Georgia AIM) program.
Supporting Cyber Resilience for Georgia’s Manufacturing Sector
Georgia AIM is a statewide initiative led by Georgia Tech and funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The program is designed to help Georgia manufacturers, their supply chain, and local governments become more efficient, competitive, resilient and secure through the use of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence.
As a key partner in Georgia AIM, the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center focuses on strengthening cybersecurity and cyber resilience for small and medium-sized manufacturing companies, supply chain partners, and manufacturing-adjacent rural local governments across the state, at no cost to the client.
These efforts are supported by highly trained Augusta University students working alongside experienced cybersecurity professionals. This innovative model strengthens real-world security for participating organizations while providing students with hands-on experience that prepares them for in-demand cyber careers.
Organizations receive expert guidance and hands-on support to better protect their systems, operations and data from today’s evolving cyber threats. For manufacturers, participation not only improves cybersecurity posture, but also directly contributes to workforce development and career pathways for Georgia students.
No-Cost Cybersecurity Services for Manufacturers and Supply Chain Organizations
Through Georgia AIM, GCITC offers comprehensive cybersecurity services at no cost to participating organizations. These services are designed specifically for manufacturing environments and operational technology systems, not just traditional office networks.
Services include, but are not limited to:
- Cyber risk and vulnerability assessments
- Network and system security evaluations
- Ransomware preparedness and response planning
- Cyber resilience strategies to reduce downtime and disruption
- Best practice guidance for policies, processes and employee awareness
By identifying risks early and strengthening defenses, manufacturers, their supply chain and local governments can significantly reduce the likelihood and impact of cyber incidents.
Why Cybersecurity Is Critical for Modern Manufacturing
Today’s manufacturers rely heavily on connected equipment, cloud platforms, automation and third-party vendors. While these technologies improve productivity and efficiency, they also create new entry points for cybercriminals.
A successful cyberattack can result in:
- Production shutdowns and delayed deliveries
- Loss of sensitive operational or customer data
- Costly recovery efforts and regulatory challenges
- Long-term reputational damage
Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT concern. It is a core business priority that directly impacts profitability, safety and long-term growth. Proactive cybersecurity is essential for protecting operations and ensuring long-term stability.
Supporting Georgia Manufacturers and Georgia’s Future Cyber Talent
The Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center is committed to strengthening both cybersecurity and workforce development across the state. Through Georgia AIM, GCITC is helping manufacturers become more resilient while creating valuable experiential learning opportunities for Augusta University students pursuing careers in cybersecurity.
By participating, organizations gain no-cost cybersecurity services, contribute to workforce readiness, and support the next generation of cyber professionals who will protect Georgia’s economy in the years ahead.
If your manufacturing company, supply chain organization, or rural local government is interested in free cybersecurity services through Georgia AIM, now is the time to get involved.
For more information or to check to see if your business is eligible for these services, contact GACYBER-CRC@augusta.edu .
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