FedRAMP at Startup Speed: Lessons Learned
Jun 18, 2025
DevSecOps / Security Architecture
For organizations eyeing the federal market, FedRAMP can feel like a gated fortress. With strict compliance requirements and a notoriously long runway, many companies assume the path to authorization is reserved for the well-resourced enterprise. But that's changing. In this post, we break down how fast-moving startups can realistically achieve FedRAMP Moderate authorization without derailing product velocity, drawing from real-world lessons, technical insights, and the bruises earned along the way from a cybersecurity startup that just went through the process. Why It Matters Winning in the federal space starts with trust—and that trust begins with FedRAMP. But pursuing authorization is not a simple compliance checkbox. It's a company-wide shift that requires intentional strategy, deep security investment, and a willingness to move differently than most startups. Let's get into what that actually looks like. Keys to a Successful FedRAMP Authorization 1. Align to NIST 800-53 fro...
