If you’re a small defense contractor, you know the drill: CMMC compliance isn’t just paperwork—it’s time-consuming and expensive. Understanding the costs upfront is crucial before bidding on DoD contracts.
Initial Vs. Ongoing Costs
Compliance isn’t one-and-done:
- $200,000–$300,000 upfront to meet CMMC requirements
- $100,000–$200,000 annually to maintain
For companies with thin margins, these costs can feel overwhelming. To solve this issue this is why Emgage exists. We cut down the costs by at least 25% so companies can afford CMMC and stay ahead of the curve when it comes to compliance.
Why MSPs Often Fall Short
Many contractors rely on MSPs for IT support, but:
- MSPs may not fully understand CMMC
- Guidance can be generic, not tailored to DoD requirements
- Support alone doesn’t guarantee compliance
- Often add more fee’s
This gap can make costs spiral and hard to balance a budget with.
The Challenge of Limited Internal Teams
Unlike large primes with dedicated cybersecurity teams, small contractors often have none. Compliance can feel like “just another task,” even though it can make or break eligibility for DoD contracts.
A Real World Example
A small firm lost nearly $1 million when attackers redirected invoices—cyber insurance didn’t cover the loss fully. CMMC aims to prevent these incidents, but the investment is high for small businesses.
Why "Just Do More Security" Isn't Enough?
CMMC isn’t about adding firewalls or antivirus—it’s a business transformation. Without proper guidance, small contractors can:
- Lose potential DoD contracts
- Eat away at thin margins
- Risk serious breaches
The key? Understand the costs, plan strategically, and focus on compliance that actually counts. A free CMMC Checkup can help you see where you stand and prioritize next steps.