Your Trusted Partner for Seamless CMMC Compliance
CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is a framework that enhances the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI). It is built upon NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 and selectively incorporates controls from NIST SP 800-172 at Level 3. CMMC mitigates risks associated with intellectual property theft and adopts a stratified approach to delineate cybersecurity tiers, necessitating independent assessments to validate adherence. CMMC obliges contractors to fortify both digital and physical CUI assets.
Accorian helps defense contractors and suppliers achieve and maintain CMMC compliance with speed and precision. As a CMMC Registered Provider Organization (RPO), Accorian provides readiness assessments, remediation guidance, and audit preparation support across multiple industries – helping clients achieve and maintain compliance efficiently and cost-effectively.
What is CMMC and Why It Matters
Stemming from NIST 800-171, this framework enhances the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI), mitigating risks associated with intellectual property theft. CMMC adopts a stratified approach to delineate cybersecurity tiers, necessitating independent assessments to validate adherence, and obliges contractors to fortify both digital and physical CUI assets.
COMPLIANCE
CMMC is mandatory for all DoW contractors and subcontractors handling FCI or CUI, helping protect the defense supply chain from evolving cyber threats.
CYBERSECURITY POSTURE
CMMC readiness helps organizations improve their overall cybersecurity posture, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
Demonstrating CMMC readiness can give organizations a competitive advantage in the defense industry, as it shows they are committed to cybersecurity best practices.
Our CMMC Services
We assist DoD contractors across the United States in navigating the challenges of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). With a tried-and-true approach to managing complex, long-term projects—comparable to our multi-framework engagements—we ensure seamless compliance while enhancing your security infrastructure. We offer:
01
Readiness & Compliance Assessment
We aim to meet the Department of Defense’s enhanced cybersecurity criteria. The process includes pinpointing deficiencies, evaluating vulnerabilities, crafting corrective strategies, and readying the organization for certification by following specialized advice and undergoing preparation evaluations.
02
Remediation Support
Accorian offers remediation planning and support by delivering a clear roadmap to address identified gaps. The team assists in prioritizing actions, implementing essential security measures, and ensuring compliance, all while minimizing disruptions to your business operations.
03
Consultation & Advisory Service
Our specialized team offers personalized advice to assist companies in navigating intricate compliance, cybersecurity, and risk management obstacles. We deliver strategic recommendations, pragmatic resolutions, and continuous assistance to harmonize your practices with both industry norms and organizational objectives.
The CMMC Model
| MODEL | WHO NEEDS IT | ASSESSMENT |
|---|---|---|
| 17 requirements aligned with the 15 safeguarding requirements in FAR 52.204-21 | Organizations that only handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) but do not process, store, or transmit CUI. |
Annual Self Assessment Annual Affirmation |
| 110 requirements aligned with NIST SP 800-171 R2 | Organizations that create, receive, process, or store Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) as part of DoD contracts. | C3PAO certification assessment every 3 years, Self assessment every 3 years for select programs Annual Affirmation |
| Total 134 - 110 requirements from NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 required by DFARS clause 252.204-7012 and 24 requirements selected from NIST SP 800-172 (Feb 2021) | Organizations handling the most sensitive CUI or involved in programs critical to national security and addresses Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) | DIBCAC certification assessment every 3 years Annual Affirmation |
Note: Level 3 (Expert) is reserved for programs with the highest priority CUI and involves assessment by the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC).
Accorian’s CMMC Readiness Approach
Accorian’s CMMC Timeline
Why Choose Accorian?
Accorian’s cybersecurity and compliance teams bring a wealth of experience to help organizations navigate their information security journey. Our hands-on, white-glove approach, combined with a goal-oriented, proven methodology, delivers both fiscal value and deep expertise to every client.
As part of our commitment to operational excellence, Accorian plays a critical role in CMMC readiness from the earliest stages. We help define in-scope systems, people, and workflows, minimize unnecessary scope through segmentation and isolation, and ensure your Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) footprint is clearly understood and documented.
Our phased readiness approach is designed to eliminate surprises during the C3PAO audit. With a defensible scope and fully mapped control coverage, clients gain confidence in their compliance posture and clarity in their security strategy.
- Registered Provider Organization (RPO) with the Cyber AB.
- Experience supporting CMMC readiness for large primes and SMBs.
Accorian’s
CMMC Expert
Accorian’s CMMC Expert
CMMC compliance goes beyond merely meeting standards; it involves protecting sensitive information and securing your position within the DoD supply chain. Accorian's CMMC specialists possess extensive expertise and practical experience to assist companies in navigating the compliance process. They adeptly pinpoint gaps and establish strong cybersecurity protocols, fostering resilience against emerging threats and ensuring more than just compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is CMMC and why does it matter?
A. CMMC is built on NIST SP 800-171 and establishes tiered cybersecurity requirements to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI). It is mandatory for organizations in the DoD supply chain. Non-compliance can result in contract penalties or disqualification from bidding, while certification demonstrates strong cybersecurity practices, reduces risk, and provides a competitive advantage.
Q. Which CMMC level do I need (L1, L2, or L3)?
A. Level 1 (Foundational – FCI only): 17 practices aligned with FAR 52.204-21. Requires annual self-assessments.
Level 2 (Advanced – CUI): 110 practices aligned with NIST SP 800-171 r2. Requires a C3PAO certification assessment every 3 years (with self-assessments permitted for select programs).
Level 3 (Expert – most sensitive CUI): 134 practices total (110 from NIST SP 800-171 r2 + 24 from NIST SP 800-172). Requires a DIBCAC-led certification every 3 years.
Q. What does Accorian’s CMMC readiness approach include?
A. Accorian starts by identifying the correct certification level and scoping where CUI resides. We minimize scope through segmentation, then follow a phased readiness approach: mapping controls, aligning evidence, and running pre-assessments to eliminate surprises. The result is a defensible compliance posture and confidence heading into the C3PAO audit.
Q. What is the typical CMMC timeline?
A. Accorian guides clients through four stages:
- Gap Analysis (1–3 months) – Compare current controls against CMMC requirements.
- Pre-assessment (1–4 months) – Validate remediation progress and readiness.
- Remediation (1 week–6+ month) – Implement missing controls, training, and documentation.
- C3PAO Assessment (2–4 months) – Engage a certified assessor for formal certification.
Q. What services does Accorian provide for CMMC?
A. Accorian offers three core service pillars:
- Consultation & Advisory – Strategic guidance, compliance planning, and ongoing support.
- Remediation Support – Roadmaps, prioritized actions, and hands-on implementation assistance.
- CMMC 2.0 Compliance Assessment – Identify deficiencies, test controls, and prepare for certification.
Q. What is CMMC vs. NIST?
A. NIST (for example, NIST SP 800-171 / 800-53 / NIST CSF) is a set of frameworks and guidelines for cybersecurity controls. CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is a DoD-mandated, tiered certification that incorporates NIST standards plus additional requirements, and involves third-party validation. In short: NIST provides the foundation; CMMC is the enforceable, audited overlay for defense contracts.
