Pathways-2-Partnership

Think CMMC certification is just a compliance checkbox for the big defense primes? Think again. In this episode of Mission Ready in 10, we break down why non-traditional businesses — manufacturers, IT firms, staffing companies, logistics providers — are leaving serious money on the table by ignoring the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. We'll walk you through what CMMC Level 1 and Level 2 actually require, what the 2025–2026 mandate timeline means for your business right now, and how one small manufacturer turned an unannounced DoW audit into a perfect certification score — and a competitive edge their rivals can't touch. If you've ever thought "CMMC isn't for me," this episode was made for you.

In 2012, Palmer Luckey built a VR headset in his parents' garage. Two years later, Facebook bought it for $2 billion. Then he did something nobody saw coming—he started a defense company. Today, Anduril Industries is valued at over $30 billion and is fundamentally reshaping how the U.S. Department of War builds and deploys weapons systems. In this episode of Mission Ready in 10, Rick from MoveAmerica tells the story of how a non-traditional business from Silicon Valley broke into the defense industrial base, and shares practical advice on how you can build relationships with prime contractors. Learn why great technology isn't enough—and why relationships are the real key to breaking in.

What do you do when a critical part breaks on a Navy ship—and it hasn't been manufactured since the Reagan administration? You print a new one. In Episode 2 of Mission Ready in 10, Rick from MoveAmerica explores how additive manufacturing is revolutionizing military sustainment, turning 18-month procurement nightmares into same-week solutions. Then he breaks down the U.S. Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP)—your fast pass into the defense supply chain. Learn how small manufacturers are partnering with major primes to solve the military's toughest logistics challenges, and how MoveAmerica—as the MPP Intermediary—can help match you with the right mentor and guide you through the entire process. Resources mentioned: SAM.gov MoveAmerica.org Rapid Innovation Accelerator-Miami (gogovnow.com) Dearborn APEX Accelerator: (dearbornapex.com) Find an APEX Accelerator near you: (apexaccelerators.us)

In our debut episode of Mission Ready in 10, Rick from MoveAmerica tells the story of Shield AI—a company that started with two brothers, a garage in San Diego, and a mission to protect American warfighters. Today they're valued at $2.8 billion and their autonomous drone technology is being integrated into fighter jets. But here's the part nobody talks about: they didn't do it alone. Learn how SBIR funding works, why smart founders build support networks, and how MoveAmerica's Rapid Innovation Accelerator and APEX Accelerator programs can help open doors for your business. Because the warfighter needs small businesses like yours—we're just here to help you find the way.

In this episode of Pathways-2-Partnership (P2P), we speak with Mariano Mattei, VP of Cyber Initiatives for Eccalon and Project Spectrum, the DoD OSBP-endorsed cybersecurity platform supporting companies entering or operating within the defense industrial base. Mariano breaks down the evolving cyber landscape, the rising expectations around compliance, and the essential steps organizations must take to protect themselves and remain competitive. From CMMC readiness to practical cyber hygiene, this conversation offers a clear and accessible roadmap for companies of all sizes. Listeners will learn: The most common cyber vulnerabilities and how to address them What’s changing across DoD cybersecurity requirements How small and medium businesses can prepare without getting overwhelmed Whether you’re already in the defense sector or looking to become part of the defense industrial base, this episode provides the insight you need to get cyber-ready … and stay that way.

In the next episode of Pathways-2-Partnership, we are joined by Duane Wilson, Director of Business Intelligence, Assessments & Advanced Computing at MoveAmerica, for a podcast about the hidden vulnerabilities threatening the nation’s most vital supply chains. From semiconductors and rare earth elements to pharmaceuticals and defense components, the stability of these essential systems underpins U.S. economic strength, technological leadership and national security. Whether you're in government, industry, or supply chain management, this webinar offers strategic insights into fortifying America's most essential lifelines in an increasingly unstable world.

In this episode of Pathways-2-Partnership from MoveAmerica, we chat with Chris Barber, Chief Nerd and founder, of the award-winning IT services firm Cheaper Than a Geek®. With more than 20 years of experience helping small businesses navigate the digital landscape, Chris shares practical guidance on how organizations can take their first steps toward stronger cybersecurity. Tune in as we discuss the top security challenges facing small- and medium-sized businesses, the benefits of outsourcing IT services, and actionable insights from a managed IT provider’s perspective—giving you the tools to move from “negative four” to secure.

In this episode of Pathways-2-Partnership, Earl Wyatt—Executive Director of MoveAmerica and former DoD innovation lead—shares proven strategies for small and emerging businesses looking to enter the federal supply chain. From working with national labs and leveraging SBIR/STTR programs to navigating the Mentor-Protégé Program, Earl outlines the critical steps that can turn your innovation into a government-ready solution. Whether you're a startup with a big idea or a growing company aiming to scale into defense, this episode delivers the practical insights you need to move forward with purpose.

In this compelling episode of Pathways-2-Partnership, we sit down with Earl Wyatt—former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense and current Executive Director of MoveAmerica—to explore how innovation is reshaping the U.S. defense industrial base. Earl shares insights from his extensive military and acquisition background, dives into key emerging technologies like AI, hypersonics, and advanced manufacturing, and reveals the vital role of non-traditional companies in strengthening national security. Listeners will also hear practical advice on avoiding pitfalls like foreign ownership risks, and how small businesses can break into federal procurement with support from APEX Accelerators and other resources. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in government, defense, or tech innovation sectors.