Organizations within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) that work with the Department of Defense (DoD) and handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) or Federal Contract Information (FCI) must meet Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements. This certification ensures that these businesses maintain adequate cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive government data throughout the supply chain. CMMC compliance is essential for companies to fulfill their contractual obligations and remain eligible for DoD contracts.

Key Groups Needing CMMC Compliance:

1. Prime Contractors
   As direct DoD contract holders, they must ensure all operations meet the CMMC level tied to the data's sensitivity.

2. Subcontractors
   Companies that assist primes and handle FCI or CUI—whether in logistics, software, or manufacturing—must also adhere to CMMC.

3. Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)
   Often subcontractors, SMBs must comply to protect their role within the defense supply chain, even when handling limited data.

4. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) & IT Vendors
   If they access or manage systems containing FCI or CUI for DoD contractors, compliance is necessary.

5. Research Institutions and Universities
   Those involved in DoD-funded research must align with CMMC to safeguard sensitive information.