If you’re a DoD contractor still operating without CMMC compliance, the window is closing. This isn’t a future requirement – it’s being enforced now. Primes are requiring it from their supply chains. New contracts are specifying levels. And the penalties for non-compliance or false self-attestation are real.
What’s Changed
- CMMC 2.0 is final – The rulemaking is complete. This is happening.
- Primes are requiring compliance now – Even before DoD mandates it on every contract, large primes are requiring CMMC from subcontractors as part of their own risk management.
- Self-attestation has legal teeth – False Claims Act applies if you attest to compliance you don’t have. DOJ is actively pursuing cases.
- Competitors are getting compliant – Every supplier that achieves CMMC while you wait is one more competitor who can bid on work you can’t.
The Cost of Waiting
- Contracts you can’t bid on (immediate revenue loss)
- Primes dropping non-compliant suppliers from teams
- Higher risk of enforcement action if you’ve been self-attesting incorrectly
- Longer timeline to achieve compliance (assessor availability is limited)
- Actual security risk – the controls exist because the threats are real
The Reality for Small Suppliers
Level 1 is achievable in 4-8 weeks for a small company (10-50 people) with the right partner. Level 2 takes longer (3-6 months) but is still straightforward when right-sized for your scope. The investment pays for itself with the first contract it enables you to win.
We’re CyberAB registered. We’ve done this for DIB suppliers. We handle the technical controls, documentation, and training – not just a checklist but actual implementation that holds up when an assessor looks at it.
If you’ve been putting this off, the time to start is now – before your next option period comes up and compliance is a condition of renewal.
Need IT help? Seashore IT provides flat-rate managed IT for businesses with 5-250 computers across the Western US – from auto shops and contractors to law firms and healthcare practices. Call (833) 997-6886 or email info@seashoreit.com.
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