Cybersecurity attacks are rapidly rising in 2024, and these malicious attacks can have devastating consequences. Small businesses are especially vulnerable to these attacks, which can damage their security, revenue, and confidential information.
In response, the U.S. Army is launching a Next-Generation Commercial Operations pilot program in Defended Enclaves (NCODE) to relieve some of the pressure on these small businesses.
The Army estimates that about 6,000 of the 12,000 small businesses it contracts with face medium—to high-risk cybersecurity threats. Protecting sensitive information often requires more technological and financial resources than smaller businesses can afford.
Additionally, the U.S. Defense Department is implementing new cybersecurity rules for defense contracts in response to growing threats. These updates require companies to adhere to specific security standards outlined in the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program. The first contracts featuring these new requirements are anticipated to begin in 2025.
The NCODE program will provide small businesses a cyber-secure environment to work and share information in a secure, safe space without accumulating massive cybersecurity costs. It will also make it easier for these small businesses to meet and maintain the new CMMC requirements. These network enclaves are independent of Army networks and offer a space for them to accomplish their work while contracted by the Army.
Moreover, the Army is allocating $26 million in fiscal 2025 and 2026 for the NCODE program. This significant investment highlights the Department of Defense’s commitment to helping small businesses stay safe. However, it’s not yet known how companies can apply for funding.
As the threat of cybersecurity attacks continues to rise, small businesses must stay informed and proactive in enhancing their security measures. The U.S. Army’s NCODE pilot program represents a vital step towards strengthening the resilience of small businesses within the defense contracting space. The NCODE program aims to empower these businesses to effectively meet the new cybersecurity standards by providing a secure environment and financial resources. As details on the application process become available, small business owners should remain vigilant and take advantage of these initiatives to safeguard their operations and sensitive information, ensuring a more secure future in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
