Is Your Business Ready for CMMC Compliance? Key Steps to Take Now
If your business is part of the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is no longer a distant requirement. It’s becoming a business necessity. Whether you’re a prime contractor or a subcontractor, demonstrating compliance with CMMC is essential for maintaining eligibility for future DoD contracts.
So, is your business ready?
Strategic Cyber Partners has significant experience helping companies prepare for CMMC and other regulatory frameworks. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know and do right now to stay competitive.
What Is CMMC?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification is a unified standard for implementing cybersecurity across the defense industrial base. Its purpose is to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and ensure contractors have adequate security practices in place.
CMMC 2.0, the latest version, simplifies the model into three levels:
- Level 1: Foundational – Basic cyber hygiene; applies to companies handling Federal Contract Information (FCI)
- Level 2: Advanced – Aligned with NIST SP 800-171; required for companies handling CUI
- Level 3: Expert – Based on a subset of NIST SP 800-172; reserved for highest-risk programs
Key Steps to Take Now
1. Determine Your Required CMMC Level. Start by assessing the type of information your organization handles. If you deal with CUI, you’ll need to meet at least Level 2. Understanding your data classification is the foundation of your compliance strategy.
2. Conduct a Readiness Assessment. A gap analysis or mock assessment can identify areas where your current cybersecurity posture falls short. At Strategic Cyber Partners, we evaluate your systems against the appropriate CMMC level to pinpoint vulnerabilities before an official audit.
3. Map and Document Your Practices. Policies, procedures, and system security plans (SSPs) are critical to demonstrating compliance. Proper documentation ensures your practices are both understood internally and verifiable by third-party assessors.
4. Implement Required Controls. Level 2 alone requires adherence to 110 security practices under NIST SP 800-171. Controls may include multi-factor authentication, access control policies, encryption, and incident response capabilities. Partner with a trusted advisor to prioritize and implement them efficiently.
5. Monitor and Maintain Compliance. CMMC isn’t a one-and-done task. It’s an ongoing effort. Establish a security program that includes continuous monitoring, regular audits, and updates to evolving threats and regulatory changes.
6. Prepare for Assessment. When you’re ready, engage with a Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) to conduct your official CMMC assessment. Strategic Cyber Partners can guide you through the pre-assessment process to help ensure you pass the first time.
The Bottom Line
Preparing for CMMC is not just about passing an audit. It’s about protecting your business, your clients, and national security. The earlier you begin, the better positioned you’ll be when CMMC requirements are enforced across DoD contracts.
Need help getting started?
Strategic Cyber Partners offers tailored CMMC readiness support, from gap assessments and documentation to implementation and executive guidance. Let’s work together to build a resilient, compliant cybersecurity program that keeps your contracts and reputation secure.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.