A public-private partnership is being launched in Virginia to expand the state’s cyber security industry and expertise, according to a report from The Associated Press.

Gov. Bob McDonnell announced that the Semper Secure partnership will focus on several cyber security issues, including ensuring workforce preparedness and availability, as well as fostering entrepreneurship. The partnership, announced on Thursday, will be funded by the state and industry, the article says.

An independent board of directors will lead the partnership and report annually to the governor, AP reports. The board will include cyber security leaders from the government and industry, and companies participating in the partnership thus far include Northrop Grumman Corp and NetApp.