The Department of Defense’s CMMC Final Rule (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) takes effect on November 10, 2025. On this date, contracts can begin to include CMMC as a requirement, including retroactive compliance.

What is the CMMC Final Rule?

The CMMC Final Rule is a Department of Defense regulation that sets cybersecurity requirements for contractors and subcontractors. It ensures businesses handling controlled unclassified information (CUI) protect sensitive data.

What Changed in the CMMC Final Rule?

• Phased rollout: The rule introduces a phased rollout that starts with self-assessments and scales up to third-party audits depending on the sensitivity of the information you handle. The intent is to make compliance achievable for small businesses while still raising the bar for national security.
• Simplified levels: Clearer definitions of Level 1, 2, and 3 compliance.
• Support for small businesses: New DoD and SBA training programs are available.
• No more “check-the-box”: The emphasis is now on real security outcomes, not just documentation.

Why Should Small Manufacturers Care About  CMMC?

For small manufacturers, losing DoD contracts isn’t just about one customer; it can mean losing a critical revenue stream. Being non-compliant risks being locked out of the defense supply chain.

But compliance isn’t just about keeping contracts. It’s also a competitive differentiator. Less complexity means you can move faster, simplify compliance, and position your company as a ready-and-waiting DoD partner.

How Can Small Businesses Prepare for CMMC Compliance?

Review the OrbitalFire Crash Course for Small Manufacturers recorded event for an overview of how to prepare. OrbitalFire helps smaller manufacturers prepare for CMMC Compliance by assessing an organization’s current cybersecurity posture and recommending strategies to create a path to CMMC certification.

• Identify whether you receive or create CUI
• Determine your required CMMC level
• Assess your current NIST 800-171 compliance
• Document and close any gaps
• Create a System Security Plan (SSP) and POA&M
• Review your current contracts to understand when CMMC may roll into existing contracts

Whether you’ve begun the process or need to start from the beginning, OrbitalFire Cybersecurity is here to help you assess, remediate, and get ready for CMMC. Contact Us Today.

FAQ:

• When does the CMMC Final Rule take effect? November 10, 2025.
• Who needs CMMC certification? All DoD contractors and subcontractors handling CUI or FCI.
• What happens if a small business is not compliant? Risk of losing DoD contracts.

Need help supporting the mission? We’re Here for You to help you assess your business’s current cybersecurity approach, then recommend and review opportunities for a strategy that fits your business mission.