The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program, established by the Department of Defense (DoD), is essential for safeguarding Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). With cyber threats on the rise, contractors and subcontractors working with the DoD must implement strict cybersecurity measures based on the CMMC’s tiered certification system. Full compliance with CMMC will be a requirement for DoD contractors starting in 2025, with mandatory integration across all contracts by 2028.
Why CMMC Compliance is Crucial for Defense Contractors
The CMMC program ensures that defense contractors have implemented cybersecurity measures to protect national security. From December 16, 2024, contractors must comply with the program, starting with Phase 1. The program features three certification levels:
Level 1 requires self-assessments.
Level 2 involves both self and third-party assessments.
Level 3, the most stringent, demands an assessment by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) for high-value contracts involving critical information
Failing to comply means contractors risk losing access to valuable DoD contracts. This compliance structure reflects the DoD’s commitment to reducing vulnerabilities within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB)
Phased Implementation Timeline for CMMC 2.0
The CMMC program is being rolled out over four distinct phases, giving contractors ample time to meet the necessary requirements:
Phase 1 (2025)
Contractors must achieve Level 1 (self-assessment) or Level 2 (self-assessment) certification depending on contract specifications. These certifications are essential for handling FCI and CUI, and self-assessments are to be submitted annually.
Phase 2 (2026)
Contractors handling CUI must now secure third-party certification from a C3PAO to retain eligibility for DoD contracts. Level 2 certifications are required for contractors working with sensitive CUI.
Phase 3 (2027)
Level 2 (C3PAO) certification becomes mandatory for all contractors dealing with sensitive contracts, while Level 3 (DIBCAC) certification is reserved for contracts with high-value CUI.
Phase 4 (2028)
Full implementation occurs, requiring all contractors to meet the appropriate CMMC levels to bid for new contracts and options.
BetterWorld Technology: Guiding You to CMMC Success
BetterWorld Technology has deep expertise in helping DoD contractors navigate the CMMC compliance process. Our team helps clients through:
Self-Assessments: We assist in conducting thorough self-assessments for Level 1 and 2 certifications to identify and close any gaps in your cybersecurity framework.
Third-Party Certification: We guide companies in preparing for C3PAO assessments by ensuring all documentation is in order and that security controls align with the CMMC framework.
Subcontractor Compliance: As CMMC requirements flow down to subcontractors, we help prime contractors ensure their supply chain meets the necessary standards, minimizing the risk of non-compliance.
With third-party assessments becoming mandatory for many contractors by 2026, it’s critical to start preparations now to avoid bottlenecks and ensure that you stay eligible for DoD contracts. BetterWorld's proactive approach ensures that contractors and their subcontractors meet these evolving requirements without delay.
What’s at Stake: Non-Compliance Could Cost Your Business
CMMC compliance is no longer a distant requirement—it’s an immediate priority. Contractors that fail to comply will be disqualified from bidding on DoD contracts, losing out on potentially millions of dollars in defense contracts. Moreover, contractors who receive conditional certifications will have only 180 days to resolve outstanding issues, such as Plans of Action & Milestones (POA&Ms).
The Future of CMMC Compliance
As CMMC moves into full implementation, contractors must focus on continuous cybersecurity improvements. By 2028, all DoD contracts will include CMMC requirements, and only fully compliant businesses will be eligible to secure these lucrative contracts
U.S. Department of Defense
Get Ahead with BetterWorld Technology
As the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 becomes mandatory, ensuring your business is compliant is essential to staying competitive in the defense sector. BetterWorld Technology provides end-to-end cybersecurity services, from conducting self-assessments to guiding you through third-party certifications, ensuring that both prime contractors and subcontractors meet CMMC requirements. Our team will help you safeguard Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), positioning your company for success as the DoD phases in these vital security standards.
Don’t wait—contact BetterWorld Technology today to secure your compliance and protect your business.