Strengthening Digital Readiness for Veteran-Owned Businesses
As part of NVBDC’s ongoing commitment to helping veteran-owned businesses become more competitive, resilient, and digitally ready, the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) recently hosted the second installment of its cybersecurity education series, Cybersecurity 201: Building & Operating Your Security Posture, presented by cybersecurity expert Mike Rutallie, Founder and CEO of ValorPoint.
The session built upon the foundation established during Cybersecurity 101, moving beyond basic cybersecurity concepts and focusing on how businesses can develop, govern, and continuously improve a comprehensive cybersecurity program.
Cybersecurity Is a Business Function, Not Just an IT Issue
One of the webinar’s central messages was clear: cybersecurity is no longer solely a technology concern. It is a business, operational, and risk-management function that directly impacts an organization’s ability to win contracts, maintain customer trust, secure cyber insurance, and protect critical business operations.
For veteran-owned businesses pursuing opportunities within corporate supply chains, government contracting, and defense-related industries, cybersecurity has become an increasingly important differentiator.
Building a Security Program That Supports Growth
Rather than focusing exclusively on individual security tools or technologies, attendees learned how successful organizations build structured cybersecurity programs that align with recognized industry frameworks such as:
● NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF)
● CIS Critical Security Controls
● NIST 800-171
● Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)
Rutallie emphasized that cybersecurity maturity is not achieved overnight. Organizations should focus on establishing a baseline, identifying gaps, prioritizing improvements, and continuously strengthening their security posture over time.
Why Cybersecurity Matters for Business Development
As supply chains become increasingly interconnected, corporations and government agencies are placing greater scrutiny on the cybersecurity practices of their vendors and suppliers.
Strong cybersecurity programs can help businesses:
● Demonstrate credibility and operational maturity
● Meet customer and supplier security requirements
● Improve eligibility for cyber insurance coverage
● Reduce operational and financial risk
● Support compliance with government and defense contracting requirements
● Strengthen long-term business resilience
For many veteran-owned businesses, cybersecurity is quickly becoming a prerequisite for growth rather than an optional investment.
Governance, Risk Management, and Incident Preparedness
The webinar also explored key governance components that every organization should consider implementing, including:
● Written cybersecurity policies and procedures
● Risk assessments and security reviews
● Third-party and vendor risk management
● Incident response planning
● Security awareness and accountability
● Ongoing monitoring and continuous improvement processes
Participants learned practical approaches for evaluating vendor risks, preparing for cybersecurity incidents, and documenting security practices in ways that support compliance and customer confidence.
Supporting NVBDC’s Digital Readiness Mission
This webinar is part of NVBDC’s broader Digital Readiness initiative, designed to help veteran-owned businesses strengthen the capabilities needed to compete in today’s increasingly digital economy.
Through educational programs, training opportunities, strategic partnerships, and practical resources, NVBDC is helping certified veteran-owned businesses build the operational foundations necessary to succeed in corporate and government supply chains.
Cybersecurity readiness is no longer simply about preventing attacks—it’s about positioning businesses for sustainable growth, supplier diversity opportunities, and long-term success.
Resources Available to Attendees
Participants received several valuable tools and resources to help advance their cybersecurity programs, including:
● Security Posture Self-Assessment
● Vendor Security Review Template
● Incident Response Plan Template
● Cybersecurity 201 Presentation Slides
● Webinar Recording
Continuing the Digital Readiness Journey
NVBDC extends its appreciation to Mike Rutallie and ValorPoint for sharing their expertise and helping veteran-owned businesses better understand the strategic importance of cybersecurity.
As cyber threats continue to evolve and customer expectations increase, organizations that invest in cybersecurity governance, risk management, and continuous improvement will be better positioned to protect their businesses, serve their customers, and capitalize on new opportunities.
For veteran-owned businesses, cybersecurity is more than protection—it is a competitive advantage.
Missed the webinar or want to access the supporting materials?
- Takeaway 1 – Security-Posture-Self-
Assessment - Takeaway 2 – Vendor-Security-Review
- Takeaway 3 – Incident-Response-Plan
