Pathways-2-Partnership

Building Cyber-Ready Partnerships for Small and Medium Businesses

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.

The ‘so what’ behind the Rapid Innovation Accelerator – Miami (RIA-M)

In this episode, Solomon Stavis, Director of the Rapid Innovation Accelerator - Miami (RIA-M), joins us to discuss how the RIA-M is helping emerging and non-traditional businesses and universities successfully navigate and access the federal contracting space. This podcast unpacks the 'so what' behind the RIA-M’s impact, from helping companies submit proposals to building critical partnerships across government, academia, and industry. 

Securing America’s Lifelines: Building Resilience in Critical Supply Chain

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.

Entering the Federal Supply Chain: Top 5 Essentials for Dual-Use Manufacturers (

In the next episode of Pathways-2-Partnership, Jay Davis, Business Counselor at the MoveAmerica APEX Accelerator, shares insights on Entering the Federal Supply Chain: Top 5 Essentials for Dual-Use Manufacturers. This episode is designed for businesses looking to bring their dual-use products into the federal marketplace.
Jay breaks down the critical components every company needs, starting with obtaining a CAGE code and developing a compelling capability statement, to identifying federal opportunities that align with your strengths. You’ll gain practical, step-by-step guidance to position your company effectively, meet regulatory requirements, and unlock the vast potential of federal contracts.

Negative Four to Secure: Starting Your Cybersecurity Journey

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.

Mitigating FOCI: How to Protect Your Business and IP

What do you do when your business already has FOCI exposure? In this episode of Pathways-2-Partnership, Dr. Christophe McCray walks us through real-world examples of how foreign influence has compromised U.S. innovation—and what companies can do about it. From red flags and risk factors to voting trusts and mitigation strategies, this episode provides a playbook for protecting your IP and staying eligible for federal contracts.

Breaking Into the Federal Market: Innovation Pathways with Earl Wyatt

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.

Understanding FOCI: What Small Businesses Need to Know

In this episode of Pathways-2-Partnership, Dr. Christophe McCray of MoveAmerica breaks down the essentials of FOCI—Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence—and why it’s a growing concern for small businesses entering the federal marketplace. Learn how adversarial nations exploit legal loopholes, what red flags to look out for, and how to protect your intellectual property before signing that next contract.