What It Takes to Be a GCC and GCC High Reseller


What It Takes to Be a GCC and GCC High Reseller

When it comes to securing data for government contractors and organizations in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), Microsoft’s Government Community Cloud (GCC) and GCC High environments are the gold standard. But becoming an authorized reseller in these environments isn’t simply a matter of filling out a form. It requires unmatched compliance, infrastructure, and expertise, qualities that only a select group of providers in the United States can demonstrate.

The High Bar for GCC and GCC High Resellers

Microsoft created GCC and GCC High to help government agencies and their contractors meet the strictest data security requirements. These cloud environments isolate sensitive data, helping organizations stay compliant with U.S. federal regulations such as:

  • FedRAMP High: The highest level of the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, ensuring rigorous security controls.

  • ITAR: International Traffic in Arms Regulations, which mandate that certain defense-related data remain within the United States.

  • DFARS: The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement, which governs data security for defense contractors.

  • CMMC: The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, a framework designed to safeguard sensitive federal information.

To qualify as a GCC or GCC High reseller, a company must be U.S.-based, meet these compliance standards, and pass Microsoft’s rigorous vetting process. Just obtaining the required certifications can take years of investment and careful preparation.


Infrastructure Built for Sensitive Government Workloads

Compliance alone isn’t enough. GCC High resellers also need robust infrastructure capable of supporting highly sensitive government workloads. This includes secure data centers, strict access controls, and a proven track record in handling complex security configurations.

In other words, resellers must prove they can protect some of the nation’s most critical data, every day, around the clock. This level of operational maturity is rare, which is why the list of approved resellers is so short.

An Exclusive Club: Only 43 in the U.S.

The numbers tell the story. Only 43 companies across the entire United States have achieved the distinction of becoming an AOSG (Azure Government Cloud)–approved Microsoft partner authorized to resell GCC High licenses.

It’s a small, highly vetted group trusted to serve government agencies, defense contractors, and organizations that handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Charles IT: Connecticut’s Only AOSG-Approved Microsoft Partner

Among this elite group stands Charles IT, the only Microsoft AOSG-approved GCC High reseller headquartered in Connecticut.

This accomplishment reflects years of dedication to compliance, security, and operational excellence. Charles IT’s team has built the infrastructure and developed the expertise necessary to guide government contractors and defense suppliers through every stage of their GCC or GCC High journey, from planning and licensing to implementation and ongoing management.

For businesses in the DIB or any organization working with the U.S. government, partnering with Charles IT means working with a provider that understands not only Microsoft’s complex licensing but also the intricate compliance landscape that surrounds government cloud environments.

Why This Matters for Government Contractors

If your organization handles sensitive government data, choosing the right cloud environment and the right partner is critical. A GCC High reseller can help you:

  • Achieve and maintain compliance with federal cybersecurity requirements.

  • Migrate workloads securely to Microsoft’s protected cloud environments.

  • Stay ahead of evolving regulations with expert guidance and proactive support.

Failing to meet compliance standards can jeopardize contracts and expose your organization to significant risk. Working with an approved partner like Charles IT removes those concerns and gives you a trusted advisor to navigate the complexities.

Ready to Explore GCC or GCC High?

Becoming a GCC or GCC High reseller is no easy feat, and that’s by design. The rigorous standards protect government data and ensure only the most capable organizations can provide these services.

Charles IT’s recognition as Connecticut’s sole AOSG-approved Microsoft partner underscores our commitment to safeguarding sensitive information and delivering secure, compliant cloud solutions.

If you’re a government contractor or part of the defense industrial base, partner with Charles IT to get the expert guidance and high-security solutions you need. Contact us today to learn how we can help you meet federal compliance requirements and leverage Microsoft’s GCC or GCC High environments with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microsoft GCC and GCC High?
Microsoft’s Government Community Cloud (GCC) and GCC High are secure cloud environments designed to help U.S. government agencies and contractors meet strict federal data protection and compliance requirements. These environments isolate sensitive data and comply with standards like FedRAMP High, ITAR, DFARS, and CMMC.
Who can become a GCC or GCC High reseller?
Only U.S.-based organizations that meet Microsoft’s rigorous compliance and security standards can become GCC or GCC High resellers. These companies must demonstrate advanced infrastructure, strict access controls, and proven experience supporting sensitive government workloads.
Why are there so few GCC High resellers in the U.S.?
Becoming an authorized GCC High reseller requires years of investment in compliance, infrastructure, and operational maturity. Only 43 companies nationwide hold this status, making it a highly exclusive group trusted to support defense contractors and agencies handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
What are the compliance requirements for GCC High environments?

GCC High environments support compliance with several federal standards, including:

  • FedRAMP High

  • ITAR

  • DFARS

  • CMMC
    Meeting these requirements ensures that sensitive defense and government data stays secure and within U.S. borders.

 

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