USFCR Blog

CMMC Levels Explained: What Contractors Need to Know in 2025

Jul 23, 2025 9:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc

What Is CMMC and Why It Matters in 2025

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, or CMMC, is the Department of Defense’s framework for protecting sensitive information in the federal contracting space. Starting in October 2025, CMMC requirements will begin appearing in DoD solicitations. The rollout will occur in phases through 2028.

CMMC applies to both prime contractors and subcontractors that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Even if it’s not yet written into your current contract, many prime contractors are already requesting proof of compliance or system readiness from their subs.

From SAM Registration to Government Contracts: The Next Steps That Actually Matter

Jun 30, 2025 11:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc

Your SAM registration cost you time and paperwork. Now it's sitting there doing nothing while your competitors are winning contracts. Here's how to fix that.

What Is Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Why It Matters to Contractors

Jun 18, 2025 10:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc

CUI Compliance 101: What Every New Federal Contractor Should Know

When you’re just starting out in federal contracting, it’s easy to focus on the obvious hurdles: SAM registration, past performance, and finding bid opportunities. But one of the less visible and potentially contract-killing obstacles is something many new contractors overlook: how to handle sensitive government information.

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) isn’t classified, but it’s still considered sensitive by federal agencies. And if your contract involves it, even indirectly, you’re expected to meet strict security standards from day one. For small businesses, especially, ignoring CUI compliance can mean losing contracts, getting flagged during award evaluations, or being shut out of future work altogether.

So what exactly is CUI, and how do you handle it the right way without building a massive IT team? Here’s what it means, what the rules say, and the steps your business should take now to stay eligible and competitive.

Understanding Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee Contracts

Apr 14, 2025 9:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc

A Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) contract reimburses a contractor for allowable costs incurred during a project and provides a fixed fee for profit. Unlike Firm-Fixed-Price contracts, where contractors assume the risk of cost overruns, CPFF contracts protect businesses from financial loss while still ensuring a reasonable return.

CMMC 101: Mastering Compliance for Federal Contracting Success

Mar 26, 2025 8:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in USFCR Academy, Guides, cmmc, cybersecurity

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and the Federal Government is paying attention. To protect sensitive data within the defense supply chain, the Department of Defense (DoD) created the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). For contractors looking to secure or maintain government contracts, getting CMMC certified isn't just a recommendation—it’s a must.

Understanding the Phased Implementation of CMMC 2.0 Post Dec 2024 Deadline

Dec 11, 2024 11:52:36 AM / by USFCR posted in Guides, cmmc, cybersecurity, Tech

The date December 16, 2024, marks a pivotal milestone for defense contractors. By this deadline, all entities within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) are required to meet Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 requirements to maintain eligibility for Department of Defense (DoD) contracts. This milestone represents the culmination of years of policy refinement aimed at fortifying national security by safeguarding sensitive defense information.

The Joint Certification Program (JCP): Why It Matters for Federal Contractors

Sep 16, 2024 10:35:23 AM / by USFCR posted in Guides, cmmc, cybersecurity

The Joint Certification Program (JCP) is critical for U.S. and Canadian contractors who want to access unclassified but sensitive military technical data. If your company plans to work with the Department of Defense (DoD), obtaining JCP certification is often necessary to handle the technical data required for these projects.

JCP certification allows contractors to access Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), which is crucial when dealing with defense contracts. For example, even if you're manufacturing something as simple as a special bolt for a weapon system, you’ll need JCP certification to access the design files.

Cybersecurity Compliance for Non-DoD Federal Contracts

Sep 10, 2024 11:08:21 AM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc, cybersecurity

As cybersecurity becomes increasingly important across all sectors, non-Department of Defense (DoD) federal contractors must stay vigilant about their cybersecurity practices. This article explores the key cybersecurity regulations that apply to non-DoD contractors, emerging trends in the federal cybersecurity landscape, and practical steps to enhance cybersecurity readiness.

Federal Contract Compliance for DoD Contractors

Sep 3, 2024 12:18:05 PM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc, cybersecurity

Success in federal contracting, especially with the Department of Defense (DoD), requires a deep understanding of compliance. If your company handles Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) or works closely with the DoD, mastering systems like PIEE/WAWF, JCP, and SPRS is essential. Additionally, ensuring compliance with NIST 800-171 is a critical step. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to align your business with these stringent federal standards.

NSF Investing $69 Million Annually in Cybersecurity

Sep 3, 2024 12:07:21 PM / by Daniel Cavins posted in News, Hot Grants, cmmc, Grants

Cyberattacks are a constant threat in today's world, from stealing personal information to breaching large information systems. In response, the National Science Foundation (NSF) has created the Secure and Trustworthy Cyberspace (SaTC) program, which aims to advance cybersecurity and privacy through research and education.