
Published April 7, 2026 | Back to State Grants
Pennsylvania MEP Center
DVIRC — Visit dvirc.org for manufacturing support and defense contracting resources.
Pennsylvania defense contractors and small businesses have multiple pathways to strengthen their cybersecurity posture through grants, state programs, MEP resources, and federal resources. With the CMMC Phase 2 deadline approaching in November 2026, now is the time to understand what support is available and how to access it.
Pennsylvania supports a significant defense manufacturing ecosystem through two major Army depots, the Defense Logistics Agency, and a thriving technology corridor in Pittsburgh. The state plays a critical role in defense logistics, electronics maintenance, and precision manufacturing.
Defense Installations in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's defense infrastructure is anchored by Letterkenny Army Depot and Tobyhanna Army Depot, which handle electronics maintenance and repair for the entire DoD. This creates extensive contracting opportunities in supply chain management and precision manufacturing.
The Delaware Valley Industrial Resource Center (DVIRC) serves as Pennsylvania's Manufacturing Extension Partnership center, providing specialized assistance to manufacturers in the Philadelphia region and throughout the state. Through dvirc.org, DVIRC connects Pennsylvania manufacturers with cybersecurity resources and defense contracting support.
DVIRC Resources for Defense Manufacturers
DVIRC helps Pennsylvania manufacturers understand CMMC requirements, identify cybersecurity gaps, and access available grant programs. The organization works closely with defense contractors to navigate compliance requirements.
Pennsylvania businesses can access additional cybersecurity support through state programs and regional partnerships designed to protect the defense manufacturing supply chain.
Pittsburgh Tech Corridor and Lehigh Valley Manufacturing
Pittsburgh's technology corridor and the Lehigh Valley manufacturing cluster provide a strong foundation for defense contractors in Pennsylvania. These regions have established supply chains and workforce development programs supporting defense manufacturing.
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program requires defense manufacturers to meet specific cybersecurity standards before winning contracts that involve Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Pennsylvania manufacturers working with Army depots or DLA will need CMMC certification.
CMMC Phase 2 Deadline: November 10, 2026
Beginning November 10, 2026, DoD will begin enforcing CMMC Level 2 certification on contracts involving CUI. Manufacturers without a current gap assessment may find themselves ineligible for new awards.
Cyber Grants Alliance (CGA) is offering 100 in-kind grants valued at $5,000 each to help defense manufacturers complete a professional CMMC gap assessment. This is not a loan and does not need to be repaid.
Who Is Eligible?
Defense contractors, subcontractors, and manufacturers who do business with the DoD or handle CUI on behalf of federal agencies. Small and mid-sized businesses are especially encouraged to apply.
Taking the first step toward CMMC compliance starts with understanding where your organization stands.
Apply for the CGA National CMMC Gap Assessment Grant. 100 in-kind grants 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.