CIRAS partnership helps Iowa tech company achieve CMMC Level 2 and expand opportunities in the defense market.
Company Overview
Quadyster is a technology solutions company based in Bettendorf that set an ambitious goal to become Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 compliant under Department of Defense standards. Achieving this certification allows the company to handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and compete for a wider range of federal contracts.
Situation
Quadyster wanted to expand its federal contracting work but needed to meet CMMC Level 2 cybersecurity requirements to do so. For many small businesses, these certifications can seem out of reach because they demand detailed documentation, secure systems, and rigorous third-party review. Quadyster faced the challenge of turning complex federal cybersecurity standards into practical policies and audit-ready systems.
Solution
To reach its goal, Quadyster (R3 Uniq Inc) turned to CIRAS for guidance. The company completed the Cybersecurity Bootcamp for Federal Contractors in June 2024 and the CMMC Level 2 Training in August. These sessions, hosted by CIRAS and instructed by Aspire Cyber, provided Quadyster with the foundation to begin its certification journey.
CIRAS then launched a project connecting Quadyster directly with Aspire Cyber for hands-on support. Aspire Cyber helped document cybersecurity policies, design a secure enclave environment, and prepare for the final audit. CIRAS project manager Melissa Burant coordinated activities and provided ongoing guidance.
“CIRAS provided invaluable early guidance that set us on the right path for the CMMC certification,” said CBL Rao, Chief Operating Officer of Quadyster. “Their encouragement and support, along with Aspire Cyber’s expert training, were crucial to our success.”
Results
Quadyster achieved CMMC Level 2 certification, officially recognized by a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO). The certification strengthens credibility, enables the company to handle sensitive federal information, and opens doors to larger defense contracts.
The project generated a total impact of more than $1.2 million, including $1 million in new and retained sales, 10 jobs created or retained, $100,000 in cost savings, and a projected 25% growth in business over the next year.
“This certification moves us to the next level,” said Quadyster President Hari Banda. “It builds confidence with our partners and enables us to expand our reach in the defense market.”
By helping Quadyster reach a milestone many small businesses find unattainable, CIRAS strengthened the company’s foundation for continued growth in the federal contracting arena.
Contact Melissa Burant to learn more.