Open Approach Joins MSP Collective as Certified CMMC Level 2 Provider

In a significant advancement for cybersecurity in the defense industrial base, Open Approach, a managed IT and security provider, has been recognized as a certified CMMC Level 2 provider and included in the MSP Collective's External Service Provider (ESP) Directory. This directory serves as a vetted resource for federal agencies and defense contractors, facilitating the identification of managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security service providers (MSSPs) that meet critical Department of War (DoW) cybersecurity requirements.

The inclusion in the ESP Directory means that Open Approach has undergone rigorous independent validation of its CMMC Level 2 Assessment Certification by a recognized CMMC Third Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO). In an era where compliance is paramount to securing government contracts, the assurance that comes with such independent certification cannot be overstated. As Scott Bernoudy, CEO of Open Approach, articulates: "For defense contractors who need to know their MSP can hold up under scrutiny, this listing is the proof point." This heightened level of assurance offers procurement professionals a solid foundation for vendor selection, enabling them to confidently engage with MSPs who have been verified for compliance with the CMMC Final Rule and NIST SP 800-171 standards.

The ESP Directory is the first of its kind, specifically tailored for the defense sector and critical infrastructure vendors. Its role in streamlining vendor identification is crucial in an environment where cybersecurity threats are increasingly sophisticated. By providing a curated list of compliant service providers, the directory mitigates the risks associated with vendor selection, allowing procurement teams to focus on providers who can effectively safeguard Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and other sensitive data in line with federal requirements.

As the DoW continues to tighten its cybersecurity regulations, the imperative for defense contractors to partner with certified MSPs intensifies. Working with vendors listed in the ESP Directory, such as Open Approach, offers contractors a tactical advantage in bidding for federal contracts. It positions them favorably when competing in an environment where compliance with cybersecurity mandates is not just preferred but a necessity. The listing also highlights considerable options available across various U.S. states and Canada, ensuring regional accessibility for contractors seeking compliant cybersecurity partners.

Open Approach’s inclusion in this prestigious directory enhances its standing in the cybersecurity landscape, especially given the company holds multiple certifications, including Cyber Verify Level 3 and SOC 2 Type II. These credentials place Open Approach among the top echelon of managed service providers worldwide. Their service portfolio includes not only defense contractors but also other industries like healthcare and manufacturing, underscoring the breadth of their secure IT solutions.

In conclusion, the validation of Open Approach as a CMMC Level 2 provider not only reinforces the company's credibility but also highlights critical procurement implications for defense contractors. As the marketplace transitions towards greater accountability in cybersecurity practices, providers with validated certifications will increasingly dominate the landscape. The MSP Collective's ESP Directory is becoming indispensable for contractors aiming to navigate these complexities effectively, ensuring they meet compliance obligations while strategically enhancing their competitive position in securing federal contracts.

• Open Approach has been added to the MSP Collective’s highly vetted ESP Directory.
• This directory is essential for defense contractors needing certified cybersecurity partners.
• Inclusion in the directory confirms independent validation by a C3PAO.
• CMMC Level 2 compliance is crucial for safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
• Procurement professionals can leverage the directory to streamline vendor selection and reduce risks.
• Open Approach holds multiple certifications, ranking it among the top 1% of global managed service providers.
• The US DoW’s continued enforcement of CMMC requirements highlights the growing demand for certified ESPs.
• The ESP Directory facilitates access to compliant service providers across the U.S. and Canada.
• Scott Bernoudy emphasizes the importance of independent audits for client assurance and compliance.
• Vendors listed in the directory provide enhanced procurement opportunities for defense contractors.