Learn how Ontario businesses can achieve CPCSC compliance for Canadian defence contracts.
Canadian Public Cyber Security Certification (CPCSC) is Canada’s emerging cybersecurity framework for suppliers that bid or work on Government of Canada defence contracts. Certification ensures that your organization will continue to be eligible for these contracts while also strengthening national security interests.
Key CPCSC Objectives (and Why They Matter to Your Business)
Protect Government of Canada (GC) Data
Why It Matters: Handling federal contract information—even below the classified level—comes with strict security requirements. CPCSC compliance helps you avoid breaches, financial penalties, and reputational harm.
Work Toward Alignment with International Standards
Why It Matters: CPCSC is based on NIST 800-171 Rev3, aligning with internationally recognized cybersecurity standards. This ensures your business maintains a competitive edge in the global defence market.
Increase Cyber Resilience
Why It Matters: A robust cybersecurity baseline not only protects your business from disruptive attacks but also safeguards critical supply chains—an essential component for securing both national interests and your company’s bottom line.
Organizations that handle Canadian defence contracts or sensitive government information will need to meet CPCSC standards. Typical examples include:
Direct suppliers to the Canadian Armed Forces or other federal agencies.
Businesses providing components, logistics, or IT services essential to defence projects.
Companies managing networks, data, or software linked to defence operations.
If you plan to bid on—or already hold—Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) contracts that involve sensitive data, CPCSC compliance (or recognized equivalency) will be mandatory.
Beyond securing government contracts, CPCSC compliance delivers significant advantages that strengthen your business from the inside out:
Enhanced Cybersecurity Posture
Implementing NIST 800-171 Rev3 controls fortifies your defenses against evolving cyber threats, protecting your sensitive data and critical systems.
Improved Reputation and Trust
Demonstrating CPCSC compliance builds trust with clients, partners, and stakeholders, showcasing your commitment to data security and integrity.
Competitive Advantage in the Defence Sector
Early adoption of CPCSC positions your business as a leader in cybersecurity, giving you a distinct advantage when bidding on defence contracts and forming strategic partnerships.
Streamlined Compliance and Future Opportunities
Proactive compliance with CPCSC prepares you for potential future alignment with international standards, reducing duplicative efforts and opening doors to cross-border opportunities.
Safeguarding Intellectual Property
Protect your valuable IP and research data by implementing the strong controls required by CPCSC.
Supply Chain Security
By increasing your own security, you add to the overall security of the Canadian Defence supply chain.
The government of Canada has indicated that beginning sometime in early 2025 suppliers seeking to bid or work on certain defence contracts will need to become certified.
There are three levels to CPCSC certification:
LEVEL 1 will involve annual cyber security self-assessments.
LEVEL 2 will require external cyber security assessments by an accredited certification body.
LEVEL 3 will involve assessments conducted by the Department of National Defence.
Requirements are based upon NIST 800-171 Rev3 security controls which introduces new control families such as Planning, System and Service Acquisition, and Supply Chain Risk Management. Rev 3 has fewer total controls compared to Rev 2, however within those controls it has a significant increase in detailed assessment objectives.
CPCSC is based on NIST 800-171 Rev3, an internationally recognized standard. This ensures alignment with global cybersecurity best practices.
Navigating the complexities of CPCSC compliance can be challenging, but you don't have to face it alone. Our team of cybersecurity experts is here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial assessment to achieving full certification readiness.