Arkansas Cybersecurity Grants for Defense Contractors and Small Business
What This Post Covers
Explore defense contracting opportunities, state programs, MEP centers, and CMMC compliance resources for Arkansas.
Arkansas's Defense Footprint
Arkansas supports a focused defense ecosystem anchored by airlift capability, national guard operations, and specialized manufacturing.
Defense Contractors in Arkansas
Arkansas businesses provide logistics, transportation, and specialized manufacturing support to defense installations.
- Little Rock AFB: Home to the 19th Airlift Wing and C-130 Hercules fleet. Air mobility and cargo transport contracting opportunities.
- Pine Bluff Arsenal: Manufactures and stores chemical munitions. Contracts in specialized manufacturing, security, and logistics support.
- Arkansas National Guard: Joint operations in support of US Northern Command. Disaster response and homeland security roles.
Arkansas MEP and State Programs
Arkansas MEP provides technology and cybersecurity resources to small manufacturers.
Arkansas MEP Programs
Arkansas MEP offers technology assessments and cybersecurity readiness support for small businesses preparing for CMMC.
- Arkansas MEP: Connects businesses with federal contracting resources and cybersecurity tools. arkansasmep.org
- CISA Region 6: Serves Arkansas through the Dallas regional office.
CMMC Compliance: What Defense Contractors Need to Know
CMMC Level 2 requires 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls. A professional gap assessment identifies exactly where your organization stands.
CMMC Phase 2 Deadline: November 10, 2026
Beginning November 10, 2026, DoD will enforce CMMC Level 2 certification on CUI contracts.
- NIST SP 800-171: The CMMC Level 2 foundation. 110 controls across 14 domains.
- Gap Assessment: Creates a clear roadmap to compliance. Apply for a free CGA grant.
CGA National CMMC Gap Assessment Grant
100 in-kind grants valued at $5,000 each. No cash is awarded. Sponsored by CMMC Ready Now.
Who Is Eligible?
Defense contractors, subcontractors, and manufacturers who handle CUI. Arkansas small businesses encouraged to apply.
- What You Get: Professional gap assessment against all 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls. Written report and roadmap.
- What It Costs: Nothing. Apply now.
How to Get Started
Taking the first step toward CMMC compliance starts with understanding where your organization stands.
- Step 1: Complete the CGA Grant Application at cybergrantsalliance.org/cmmc-gap-assessment-grant. Applications take under 10 minutes.
- Step 2: If approved, you will be matched with a certified assessor who will conduct your gap assessment within 2 to 4 weeks.
- Step 3: Review your assessment report and begin remediation planning. CGA and CMMC Ready Now can connect you with implementation support if needed.
- Step 4: Once remediation is complete, schedule your official CMMC certification assessment with an accredited C3PAO.
Ready to Start Your CMMC Journey?
Apply for the CGA National CMMC Gap Assessment Grant. 100 in-kind grants (no cash awarded) valued at $5,000 each.
Apply for the GrantThis post is for informational purposes only. Cyber Grants Alliance is a nonprofit providing grant access. CMMC Ready Now provides in-kind grants and professional assessment services.