DISA’s Innovative Strategy to Simplify Facility Clearance for SMBs?

In a move to alleviate the complexities of security clearances for small enterprises, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at streamlining the Facility Clearance (FCL) process. This initiative recognizes the crucial role small businesses play in the national industrial security framework and the need for them to access classified information safely.

The National Industrial Security Program (NISP), comprising approximately 12,000 facilities, sees small businesses forming a considerable majority of about 65%. However, obtaining a facility clearance has traditionally been an obstacle, potentially inhibiting these companies from securing their next contract. The initiative’s primary objective is to simplify this process, providing a more accessible pathway for small businesses to earn their clearance.

A facility clearance, often referred to as company clearance, is an official acknowledgment that a company is suitable for access to classified information. The clearance process demands key management personnel (KMP) to acquire Personnel Clearances (PCL). Governed by the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), the FCL procedure encapsulates an administrative decision, considering national security concerns, and determining a facility’s eligibility for access to classified data.

Why security clearance?

Given the escalating foreign intelligence threats stemming from technological advancements and the global business sphere’s expansion, securing such information has never been more critical. The role of unconventional collectors has surged, leading to significant losses of information and technology, much of it unclassified. Therefore, obtaining a facility clearance is no longer just a perfunctory task but a strategic move to ensure the nation’s competitive edge remains intact.

DISA, an agency responsible for managing and improving mission-critical IT and secure communications systems, is leading the charge in facilitating small businesses’ integration into federal contracting processes. Their new strategy begins with proper education and understanding of the purchasing patterns and mechanisms of DISA.

What are DISA’s objectives?

Small businesses are interested in acquiring an FCL are advised to familiarize themselves with DISA’s objectives, participate in DISA 101 Small Business Orientation, and review the DISA forecast and federal contracting processes. A comprehensive understanding of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and the DISA Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DARS) is a key first step.

Moreover, small businesses are encouraged to explore subcontracting opportunities with major DoD prime contractors, along with considering joint ventures and teaming options. Understanding the value of responding to Sources Sought Notices (SSN) or Request for Information (RFI’s) on SAM.gov can also lead to a higher chance of securing a contract.

Interestingly, the new DISA initiative sheds light on Joint Ventures (JVs). Under the latest Mentor-Protégé Programs, more small businesses are considering forming JVs. It’s vital to remember that if a JV is awarded a classified contract, the JV entity itself will require a FCL. This stands true regardless of whether the individual entities forming the JV already possess a FCL.

To help companies with the clearance process, DISA has introduced a simplified timeline and a clear sequence of actions. This timeline guides businesses through the steps of submitting a sponsorship package to DSS via the National Industrial Security System (NISS), submitting business and KMP clearance documents, to finally obtaining a Facility Clearance. The process, while still thorough, is expected to be more efficient and less daunting, especially for small businesses that are new to this process.

This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing small businesses’ capacity to contribute to national security efforts, thus supporting economic growth and innovation. By making the clearance process more accessible, DISA is setting the stage for increased participation from this vital sector of the economy, ultimately benefiting the nation’s defense industry.