Cybersecurity is no longer optional for DoD contractors. With the rollout of CMMC 2.0, the Department of Defense has made it clear: if you want to win and keep government contracts, you must prove your ability to protect sensitive information. But compliance isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about building a sustainable, secure foundation for your business.

Here’s what contractors need to understand—and how to take strategic action to meet CMMC 2.0 requirements.

CMMC 2.0: A Quick Recap

CMMC 2.0 simplifies the original five-tier model into three levels:

  • Level 1 (Foundational) – For companies handling Federal Contract Information (FCI); based on 17 basic safeguarding practices.
  • Level 2 (Advanced) – For companies handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI); mirrors NIST SP 800-171’s 110 controls.
  • Level 3 (Expert) – For companies involved in critical national security programs; builds on Level 2 with added practices from NIST SP 800-172.

Unlike CMMC 1.0, the updated framework allows for:

  • Self-assessments for Level 1 and some Level 2 contractors.
  • Plans of Action and Milestones (POAMs) for minor deficiencies.
  • Selective waivers in rare and approved cases.

Why a Strategic Approach to CMMC 2.0 Matters

Treating CMMC compliance as a one-time task is a mistake. Instead, businesses should view it as an opportunity to strengthen their entire cybersecurity posture. A strategic, well-planned approach helps you:

  • Avoid delays in contract eligibility
  • Minimize future compliance costs
  • Increase resilience to cyberattacks
  • Demonstrate trustworthiness to the DoD and prime contractors

5 Strategic Steps to CMMC 2.0 Success

1. Assess Your Current Cybersecurity Maturity

Before you can map a path forward, you need a clear view of where you are. Conduct a detailed internal audit or work with a trusted IT partner to benchmark your current controls against your target CMMC level.

2. Identify Gaps and Build a Remediation Plan

Pinpoint areas where your systems and processes fall short. Whether it’s access control, incident response, or configuration management—document the fixes, timelines, and resources needed.

3. Implement NIST SP 800-171 Controls

For most contractors aiming for Level 2, aligning with NIST SP 800-171 is the core objective. Make sure your technical and policy controls address all 14 families of requirements.

4. Prepare for the Right Type of Assessment

  • Level 1: Self-assessment
  • Level 2 (non-prioritized CUI): Self-assessment
  • Level 2 (prioritized CUI): Third-party certification
  • Level 3: DoD-led assessment

Knowing which applies to your organization helps you prepare the right documentation and allocate resources accordingly.

5. Maintain Ongoing Readiness

CMMC is not a one-and-done initiative. Build regular reviews, employee training, and system updates into your operations so compliance becomes part of your company culture.

How Intelecis Supports DoD Contractors

Intelecis provides end-to-end support to help contractors confidently meet CMMC 2.0 requirements. We offer:

  • Readiness assessments and gap analysis
  • NIST SP 800-171 control implementation
  • POAM development and remediation
  • Audit prep for third-party and DoD-led reviews
  • Continuous compliance monitoring

We tailor every solution to your business size, industry, and risk profile—so you’re not just compliant, you’re secure.

Final Thoughts

Navigating CMMC 2.0 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategy and the right partner, your organization can not only meet the standard but turn compliance into a competitive advantage.

Need help getting started? Intelecis is here to guide you every step of the way.