Starting in early 2025, all government contractors’ ability to win new bids could be at risk unless they have taken steps to meet anticipated requirements for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). The Department of Defense (DoD) is set to begin a phased implementation of CMMC requirements in DoD contracts, mandating self-assessments for the first six months, followed by the need for full certification of compliance at Level 2 by Third-Party Auditor Organizations (C3PAOs).
CMMC is not another check-the-box audit — it is a fundamental shift in how the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) protects sensitive information. Failing to comply could have disastrous consequences, from lost business opportunities to financial penalties.