Developing a Compliance Strategy for Your Expansion into the US

by: A-LIGN 45 min

Master US Compliance for Your Global Expansion

Expanding into the US market presents a world of opportunity, but it also comes with a unique set of challenges — especially around cybersecurity compliance. For international businesses, particularly software firms from Europe and Asia, simply having an ISO 27001 certification often isn’t enough. US clients frequently demand specific certifications like SOC 2, FedRAMP, CMMC, or HIPAA to even consider a partnership.

The good news? A smart compliance strategy doesn’t just open doors; it accelerates your growth. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Why compliance is your ultimate sales tool

In the competitive US market, compliance is more than a regulatory hurdle; it’s a sales enabler. Without the right certifications prominently displayed on your website, you risk being filtered out by automated vendor-vetting tools before you even get a chance to make your pitch.

By proactively securing the right credentials, you can:

  • Shorten sales cycles: Reduce the friction of lengthy security questionnaires.
  • Boost revenue: Gain credibility and access deals you would otherwise miss.
  • Build trust: Show potential partners that you take data security seriously.

Key US compliance frameworks to know

Navigating US compliance means understanding which frameworks matter most to your target clients.

  • SOC 2: Essential for software companies, SOC 2 validates your data security and privacy controls. You can opt for a Type 1 audit, which assesses your control design at a single point in time, or a Type 2 audit, which provides a more thorough review of your controls’ effectiveness over a period.
  • FedRAMP: If you plan to sell to the US federal government, FedRAMP is a must. It’s a rigorous standard, but it unlocks access to a massive market.
  • CMMC: This is critical for manufacturers and defense contractors working with the US government.
  • HIPAA & HITRUST: HIPAA is mandatory for any organization handling healthcare data. HITRUST offers an even higher level of assurance, building on HIPAA’s foundation for enhanced security.

A smarter, harmonized approach to audits

Preparing for multiple audits can be a daunting and expensive process. That’s where a strategic partner like A-LIGN can make all the difference.

We offer a harmonized approach that bundles audits to save you time and money. For example, up to 60% of the evidence required for ISO 27001 can be reused for a SOC 2 audit. By consolidating these processes, you streamline your path to compliance.

With a global presence and a track record of issuing certifications for over 6,000 clients, our team has the international expertise to guide you. We lead the industry in SOC 2 issuance and were one of the first to integrate new frameworks like ISO 42001.

Your next steps to success

Ready to make your move into the US market? Start by identifying the certifications that align with your sales goals. A-LIGN’s readiness assessments can prepare your team by ensuring your documentation, processes, and stakeholders are audit-ready from day one.

Contact the A-LIGN team for personalized guidance and get started on your path to success.