On the Path to CMMC Accreditation — Jün Cyber Is Becoming a C3PAO
We’re preparing to become a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework. Join us on our journey to support the security of the Defense Industrial Base.
What Is a C3PAO and Why Does It Matter?
A C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization) is an independent organization authorized by the Cyber AB (formerly CMMC-AB) to perform CMMC assessments for defense contractors. Once certified, Jün Cyber will be able to:
- Conduct CMMC Level 2 assessments
- Help DoD contractors achieve and maintain compliance
- Ensure your organization meets DFARS requirements
Only certified C3PAOs can perform official CMMC assessments.
Our C3PAO Accreditation Journey
Screening
Applicants undergo a multi-step screening process.
Risk Assessment
Dunn and Bradstreet (D&N) conducts a risk assessment of the applicant.
Escalation
Applicants with a higher than Moderate risk score are referred to Cyber AB leadership for further review
FOCI Review
Submit FOCI and SF-328 forms for Foreign Ownership analysis.
Interview
An interview is conducted with the company’s senior management as part of the FOCI review.
Citizenship Check
The US citizenship of company ownership is confirmed.
Enhanced FOCI
An enhanced FOCI analysis is performed if the applicant is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) organization, global partnership, or a US-headquartered public company.
Candidate Status
If all analyses are favorable, the C3PAO applicant becomes a C3PAO Candidate.
Assessment Prep
The Cyber AB confirms the Candidate C3PAO is ready for assessment by the DIBCAC.
DoD Coordination
The Cyber AB forwards the Candidate C3PAO’s information to the DoD CMMC PMO.
Assessment Scheduled
The DoD CMMC PMO schedules the CMMC Level 2 Assessment by DIBCAC.
Certification
The C3PAO achieves CMMC Level 2 certification.
Admin Requirements
The C3PAO meets various administrative requirements (e.g., proof of insurance, dispute resolution process).
Authorization
The C3PAO receives their “Authorized C3PAO badge” from The Cyber AB.
Ready to Assess
Jün Cyber becomes authorized to conduct assessments.
We’ll update this timeline as we move through each step.
What You Can Expect from Jün Cyber as a Future C3PAO
Independent & Impartial Audits
We’ll conduct rigorous CMMC assessments with fairness and clarity.
Security-Focused Expertise
Years of cybersecurity consulting tailored to defense compliance.
Transparent Reporting
Clear, actionable findings to guide your compliance roadmap.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a C3PAO?
A C3PAO, or Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization, is an authorized organization under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program. C3PAOs perform official CMMC assessments to verify whether contractors meet the requirements to handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
Is Jun Cyber a C3PAO?
Jun Cyber is currently in the process of becoming a C3PAO, as shown on the timeline above. While we are not yet authorized to perform official CMMC assessments, we offer comprehensive CMMC readiness services to prepare organizations for a successful audit once they engage an accredited C3PAO.
Can Jun Cyber still help me if you are not a C3PAO yet?
Yes. We perform gap assessments, remediation planning, and mock audits to ensure your organization is fully prepared before bringing in a C3PAO for the official assessment. This approach saves time, reduces costs, and increases your chance of passing on the first attempt.
Why should I work with a company that is in the process of becoming a C3PAO?
Working with a team actively pursuing C3PAO status means you are getting experts who stay up to date with the latest CMMC rule changes, assessment procedures, and DoD guidance. This insight helps you avoid surprises and ensures your compliance plan meets current requirements.
What is the benefit of doing a readiness assessment before hiring a C3PAO?
Readiness assessments uncover gaps early, give you time to remediate issues, and prevent costly re-assessments. Jun Cyber’s pre-assessment process mirrors the official C3PAO methodology so you know what to expect.
How do I choose the right C3PAO once I am ready for an official assessment?
We help you connect with trusted, accredited C3PAOs when you are ready. Our team can even coordinate with the assessor and provide evidence during the audit process, making the experience smoother for your organization.
How do I get started with Jun Cyber’s CMMC readiness program?
You can schedule a free consultation on our website. We will review your current cybersecurity posture, map your CMMC level requirements, and create a clear plan to achieve compliance and prepare for your future C3PAO assessment. Contact us for a C3PAO reservation.
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We’re Officially Accredited?
Join our email list and be the first to know when we launch our C3PAO services.