Cybersecurity


Cyber attacks are a growing concern for small businesses. Learn about the threats and what you must do to protect data when contracting with the government.

Cyber-attacks disrupt business operations and put intellectual property and sensitive information at risk. In a 2018 report, the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) estimated that malicious cyber activity costed the U.S. economy between $57 billion and $109 Billion in 2016.

Another report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), in partnership with McAfee, states that about $600 billion, nearly one percent of global GDP, is lost to cyber-crime annually (Source).

Cybersecurity compliance can be challenging. That’s why we’re here to help! Work with our Procurement Specialists for personalized, one-on-one assistance with CMMC or apply for no cost assistance today!

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)


In early 2020 the Department of Defense (DoD) released the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).
This new guideline and certification process rolls in various cybersecurity standards and best practices into one multi-level framework to ensure cybersecurity is met at the appropriate level across all federal acquisition processes. 

All companies interested in contracting with the DoD, including subcontractors, must be certified through an accredited independent third party organization and expected to see CMMC levels incorporated into Requests for Information as early as June 2020. 

Department of Defense resources:


While APEX Accelerators are not certifiers, APEX Accelerator counselors are able to help clients who are DoD Primes and Subs step through the Level 1 requirements as they are not highly technical. For higher levels of certifications, APEX Accelerator counselors are able to guide clients through the framework and available tools and refer them to other accredited independent third party organizations. 

Additional Resources


Below are links to learn more about the risks of cyber-attacks, self-assessment tools, and the latest regulations.

If you have more questions, please contact us at info@apexnorcal.org or (707) 267 – 7561