CPCSC: Let’s Talk Cybersecurity, Eh?
- Triumvirate Cyber
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 27
As cyber threats grow more sophisticated and widespread, governments around the world are stepping up their defenses. The new Canadian Program for Cyber Security Certification (CPCSC) is a framework designed to protect sensitive information and strengthen the country's cyber resilience. An initial pilot phase for the program kicked off on March 12, 2025.
Ready to learn more about CPCSC? Grab a double-double and let’s break down what CPCSC means for Canadian defense companies – and how we can help you get ahead of the curve.
What is the CPCSC?
Like the U.S. Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program, the CPCSC is expected to introduce a tiered framework requiring defense contractors and government suppliers to meet specific cybersecurity standards based on the sensitivity of the information they handle. CPCSC draws heavily from the widely-recognized NIST SP 800-171 – the same framework that underpins CMMC.
However, because the CPCSC is a Canadian program, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS) has been working to "Canadian-ize" these requirements (their words, not ours). Instead of directly referencing NIST controls, CCCS is publishing its own set of guidance in the form of Information Technology Security Guidance for Practitioners (ITSP) documents to adapt the standards to the Canadian context, including via ITSP.10.171.
While the specifics are still being finalized, it’s clear that CPCSC compliance will require aligning with CCCS's ITSP guidance, which will mirror the core principles of NIST SP 800-171. This month, the Canadian government launched the first phase of the CPCSC including "a pilot program focusing on select defence contracts through self-assessment." (Canada.ca)
CPCSC vs. CMMC: A Familiar Framework
Having worked extensively with CMMC, we can tell you that CPCSC is cut from the same cloth. The table below highlights some of the key similarities between the two.
CPCSC | CMMC |
Tiered certification levels (1-3) | Maturity levels (1-3 in CMMC 2.0) |
Based on NIST SP 800-171 (Rev. 3) via ITSP.10.171 | Directly based on NIST SP 800-171 (Rev. 2) |
Focus on defense and public sector contracts | Required for U.S. DoD contracts |
Emphasis on continuous improvement & monitoring | Emphasis on sustained cybersecurity maturity |
Third-party audits required for higher levels | Third-party assessments for Levels 2 and 3 |
Intends to offer reciprocity with CMMC | Reciprocity status TBD |
The CPCSC essentially serves as Canada’s localized version of CMMC – but with CCCS tailoring the requirements through the ITSP framework to better reflect Canadian security priorities and legal considerations. If you've already navigated CMMC or worked with NIST SP 800-171, the CPCSC requirements will feel like a familiar playbook – just with a bit of maple flavor!
Why CPCSC Matters for Canadian Defense Companies
Cyber threats don’t stop at the border. Canadian companies face the same risks as their U.S. counterparts – from ransomware and phishing attacks to supply chain breaches. The CPCSC aims to close the security gap and provide Canadian companies with a clear framework for protecting sensitive information.
By achieving CPCSC compliance, Canadian companies can:
Improve their overall security posture
Increase their competitiveness for Canadian government contracts
Align more easily with U.S.-based partners and CMMC requirements
Given the close ties between the Canadian and U.S. defense industries, CPCSC compliance could also simplify cross-border collaboration – making Canadian companies more attractive partners for U.S.-based contractors, despite the current trade challenges.
Final Thoughts
The CPCSC represents a major step for Canadian cybersecurity – but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With our proven track record in CMMC and deep understanding of defense sector compliance, Triumvirate Cybersecurity is uniquely positioned to help Canadian companies rise to the challenge.
As a CyberAB Registered Provider Organization (RPO) with experience in the CMMC program, we’re excited to bring our expertise to Canada and help Canadian companies prepare for CPCSC. Ready to get started? Reach out today – let’s make your cybersecurity as strong as a Canadian winter!
