What is a C3PAO?
A CMMC Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) is an accredited, independent assessor authorized by The Cyber AB to perform CMMC assessments for companies that handle Department of Defense information. During these assessments, the C3PAO evaluates how well an organization has implemented the CMMC Level 2 practices outlined in NIST SP 800-171, confirming that proper safeguards exist to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
Authorization as a C3PAO requires a rigorous review process, including compliance demonstrations, background and FOCI checks, ISO/IEC 17020 accreditation, and adherence to specific staffing requirements. This accreditation framework helps maintain consistency, integrity, and security across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).
For more detail on certification levels, timelines, and the phased rollout, visit our CMMC Overview page.
Your CMMC Third-Party Assessor Organization Partner
As an authorized C3PAO, Monarch ISC provides the independent assessments required for organizations seeking CMMC certification.
Our role is to evaluate how well your established security practices align with CMMC requirements and to ensure that the evidence you present accurately reflects how your business operates. Throughout the assessment process, we focus on clarity. We take the time to explain each practice, what it measures, and how it applies to your specific workflows and controls.
An Authorized C3PAO Since 2022
Monarch ISC has been supporting DoD contractors and subcontractors with security and compliance efforts for decades. When we became an authorized C3PAO in 2022 – the 7th organization to be certified by the Cyber AB – we built on that foundation with a structured assessment approach designed to meet each organization where they are.
Every environment is different. We focus on understanding how your business operates so we can evaluate your practices accurately and explain what each CMMC requirement represents in the context of your workflows and documented processes. Connect with us to discuss your CMMC assessment needs.
The Role of Authorized C3PAOs in CMMC Certification
For any organization pursuing CMMC Level 2 certification, working with an authorized C3PAO is a required part of the process. C3PAOs serve as independent assessors, evaluating whether the organization has correctly implemented the practices and requirements derived from NIST SP 800-171.
A C3PAO’s responsibilities include:
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Performing Assessments
Reviewing evidence and verifying an organization’s implementation of the CMMC Level 2 practices. -
Maintaining Objectivity
Ensuring assessments are impartial, consistent, and grounded in evidence. -
Submitting Findings
Uploading assessment results to the Department of Defense’s Enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS). The Cyber AB then reviews these results for completeness and accuracy, then forwards them to the DoD for final certification determination.
Collectively, the authorized C3PAO will ensure a consistent, standardized approach to validating CMMC compliance across the Defense Industrial Base.
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Compliance, Security and Strategy Take Flight with Our Authorized C3PAO Team
As an authorized C3PAO, Monarch ISC provides expert guidance, actionable insights, and steady support to help you meet every requirement. We’re here to help make the path to compliance straightforward and achievable, so you can focus on growing your business and securing the most rewarding opportunities in the DIB.
