Mitigating Foreign Investment While Securing Your FCL: Understanding FOCI

Foreign investment can be a powerful avenue for growth. However, when pursuing classified US government contracts, it’s crucial to understand how foreign ownership, control, or influence (FOCI) can impact your Facility Clearance (FCL) application.

Here at Nooks Services, we’ll simplify the complexities of the FOCI landscape and provide end-to-end FCL consultation for a smooth FCL journey for your business.

FOCI: Balancing International Investment with National Security

The government wants to be confident that classified information entrusted to your company remains secure. Simply put, FOCI presents a potential risk to that security. FOCI assesses the potential risks associated with foreign involvement in your company, focusing on several key criteria:

• Ownership Structure: A high percentage of foreign ownership can raise questions about potential foreign influence.
• Management Structure: The nationalities and potential control exerted by foreign decision-makers are evaluated.
• Foreign Investment: Significant foreign investments in your company can be a factor in the FOCI assessment.
• Type of Classified Information: The sensitivity of the classified information your company seeks to handle plays a role in the FOCI assessment.
• International Partnerships: The nature of your company’s relationships with foreign governments can be a factor.

The government also considers a broader range of factors during a FOCI review, as outlined in the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM).

Why FOCI Matters for Your FCL

An FCL authorizes your company to handle classified information at a specific level (Secret, Top Secret) for your specified classified contract. A company determined to be under a certain degree of FOCI is ineligible for a FCL until the FOCI factors have been favorably resolved. Demonstrating a low FOCI risk strengthens your application and increases your chances of securing the desired FCL.

Mitigating FOCI: Strategies for Success

Even if your company has some level of foreign involvement, all is not lost. The good news is that there are strategies you can implement to mitigate FOCI concerns and improve your chances of FCL eligibility. Here at Nooks Services, we’re well-versed in these strategies and can guide you through the process.

Some potential mitigation strategies may include:

• Strengthening your corporate governance structure: This can involve ensuring clear lines of authority and decision-making within your company, with US citizens holding key leadership positions.
• Implementing robust security policies and procedures: Developing and enforcing comprehensive security protocols can demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding classified information.
• Partnering with a trusted security advisor: Nooks Services can provide invaluable expertise and guidance throughout the FOCI mitigation and FCL application process.

Ready to Secure Your FCL and Elevate Your Business?

Don’t let FOCI complexities hold your ambitions back. Contact Nooks Services today and let our expertise guide you through the process and help you achieve FCL eligibility (if applicable) or navigate the FOCI resolution process.