How Did NFC Become A Certification Authority?
NFC initially established its PKI program in 1997 to support USDA’s Rural Development (RD) and Farm Services Agency (FSA) processing of Type 60 Purchase Order Invoices. NFC continued to focus on its PKI services by pursuing becoming an accredited CA. NFC contracted with Klynvel Peat Marwick Goerdelr (KPMG) to become certified and accredited as a Trusted Certification Authority. After an 18-month process, NFC received its Certification and Accreditation as a Medium Assurance CA in September 2002. Required audits continue to be performed each year. Additionally, NFC will be undergoing its next required Certification and Accreditation during the Fall of 2005.
