AMENDMENT_36C26126Q0943 0002_8.20.26.pdf

5. PROJECT NUMBER (if applicable)

CODE 7. ADMINISTERED BY

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NUMBER

CODE

6. ISSUED BY

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NUMBER 3. EFFECTIVE DATE

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NUMBER

9B. DATED

PAGE OF PAGES

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER

10B. DATED

BPA NO. 1. CONTRACT ID CODE

FACILITY CODE CODE

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods:

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

E. IMPORTANT:

is extended,

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning __________ copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY is not extended.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

(REV. 11/2016)

is required to sign this document and return ___________ copies to the issuing office. is not, A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

15C. DATE SIGNED

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER

Contractor

16C. DATE SIGNED

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER 16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

STANDARD FORM 30 PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

(Type or print) (Type or print)

(Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

(Number, street, county, State and ZIP Code)

(If other than Item 6)

(Specify type of modification and authority)

(such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.)

(If required)

(SEE ITEM 11)

(SEE ITEM 13)

(X)

CHECK

ONE

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

1 35

36C261-26-AP-4658

640-26-3-171-0164

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 21

To all Offerors/Bidders

36C26126Q0943

08-10-2026

X

X X

** HOUR & DATE for Receipt of Offers is EXTENDED to: 08-28-2026 12:00 PM PDT

See CONTINUATION Page x (1)

The purpose of this amendment is to make the following changes and/or clarifications to the solicitation:

A. The offer due date and time specified in Block 8 of the SF 1449 is hereby extended from 08/17/2026, 12:00 PM PDT, to

08/28/2026, 12:00 PM PDT.

B. Provide responses to request for information (RFI). See Continuation Pages C. The revised solicitation, RFQ 36C26126Q0943, is incorporated into this amendment and supersedes the previously issued solicitation in its entirety. Offerors shall submit quotations based on the revised solicitation.

D. Offerors must acknowledge receipt of this amendment in their quote submission.

E. Except as expressly revised by this amendment and the revised solicitation, all other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

Edward Hunter Contracting Officer

RFQ 36C26126Q0943 - Amendment 0002 Questions and Government Responses

CONTINUATION PAGE

AMENDMENT 0002

QUESTIONS AND GOVERNMENT RESPONSES

RFQ 36C26126Q0943 - Million Veteran Program (MVP) Customized Logo Pins

Question 1 (Salient Characteristics - Enamel Specifications):

Can you please specify whether they need hard or soft enamel?

Government Response:

The pins shall use soft enamel. Hard enamel is not required. The finished pin shall have a clean, professional appearance consistent with the Government's existing MVP pin and the Government-approved preproduction sample.

Question 2 (Section C - FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies):

Must the pins be manufactured in the United States, or may offerors propose overseas production under an applicable exception to FAR 52.225-1?

Government Response:

The Buy American requirements apply to this solicitation. Offerors shall comply with FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies. FAR 52.225-2, Buy American Certificate, is being added by amendment. No Buy American Act waivers are being considered. Actual foreign end products, if offered, will be evaluated in accordance with the applicable solicitation requirements and FAR Part 25.

Question 3 (Salient Characteristics - Pin Construction):

Is a digitally printed domestic pin acceptable, or does the VA require a traditional die-struck enamel pin?

Government Response:

The Government requires a traditional die-struck soft-enamel lapel pin generally consistent with the construction and appearance of the existing MVP pin. A digitally printed pin that materially changes the raised/recessed metal detailing, enamel appearance, rope-edge design, or overall character of the existing pin is not acceptable.

Question 4 (Section C - FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies):

If overseas production is permissible, how should offerors identify the foreign end product and country of origin in their quote?

Government Response:

FAR 52.225-2, Buy American Certificate, is being added by amendment. Offerors proposing foreign end products shall identify the applicable line item and country of origin in accordance with FAR 52.225-2.

Question 5 (Salient Characteristics - Production Schedule; Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

What are the required delivery dates and addresses for the 10 initial samples and 100 preproduction samples?

Government Response:

CLIN 0002 (10 samples): 75 14th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. CLIN 0003 (100 samples):

Customer-selected delivery vendor address to be provided by the Government following award and prior to shipment. The contractor shall coordinate shipment with the designated Government point of contact and shall not proceed to the next production stage until the required Government approval has been received.

Question 6 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule vs. Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

Does the November 29, 2026 delivery deadline supersede the 90-days-ARO schedule shown in Section B3?

Government Response:

Yes. The controlling final delivery requirement for CLIN 0001 is delivery of all 140,000 finished production pins no later than November 29, 2026. The contractor's production schedule shall accommodate the required preproduction sample stages, Government review and approval, bulk production, packaging, and final delivery by November 29, 2026.

Question 7 (SF 1449 Block 5 - Solicitation Number vs. Continuation-Page Headers):

Please confirm the correct solicitation number that offerors should reference in their quotation and correspondence.

Government Response:

The correct solicitation number is 36C26126Q0943. Offerors shall reference RFQ 36C26126Q0943 in quotations and related correspondence.

Question 8 (Salient Characteristics - Metal Specifications):

(a) Please clarify the required base metal and metal finish/plating.

(b) If Pantone 104C is intended to represent a color-coated surface rather than exposed metal plating, please confirm.

Government Response:

Pantone 104C is intended to identify the approximate gold-tone appearance of the exposed metal areas.

It is not intended to require a Pantone-matched paint or enamel coating over those areas. The finished pin shall have a bright/polished gold-tone metal finish generally consistent with the Government's existing MVP pin. Actual gold or other precious-metal plating is not required. The final finish is subject to Government approval of the preproduction sample.

Question 9 (Section B.2 - CLIN 0002/0003 Production Sequencing):

Please clarify whether the 10 samples under CLIN 0002 must be approved before production of the 100 samples under CLIN 0003, or concurrently.

Government Response:

The preproduction sample process shall be sequential. The contractor shall first produce and deliver the 10 samples required under CLIN 0002. Production of the 100 samples under CLIN 0003 shall not begin until the Government has approved the CLIN 0002 samples. Full production of the 140,000 pins under CLIN 0001 shall not begin until the Government has approved the CLIN 0003 samples.

Question 10 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule vs. Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

Please confirm the required delivery location for each preproduction sample CLIN.

Government Response:

CLIN 0002 (10 samples): 75 14th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. CLIN 0003 (100 samples):

Customer-selected delivery vendor address to be provided by the Government. The VA Palo Alto Health Care System address identified in Section B.3 is not the intended physical delivery location for these preproduction sample quantities.

Question 11 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule vs. Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule;

Section E.5 - Evaluation Factor 2, Delivery):

Please confirm the controlling delivery requirement for CLIN 0001 and whether an earlier proposed delivery schedule would be considered beneficial.

Government Response:

The controlling final delivery requirement for CLIN 0001 is delivery of all 140,000 finished pins no later than November 29, 2026. Offerors may propose an earlier delivery schedule. However, earlier delivery will not receive additional evaluation credit unless expressly provided for in the solicitation's evaluation criteria. Any proposed schedule must allow sufficient time for completion and Government approval of both required preproduction sample stages prior to bulk production.

Question 12 (Salient Characteristics - Enamel Specifications):

Should the pins use soft enamel or hard enamel?

Government Response:

The pins shall use soft enamel. Pantone 541C and Pantone 188C are the required enamel color references. Minor commercially reasonable color variation is acceptable, provided the finished colors are consistent with the approved preproduction sample.

Question 13 (Salient Characteristics - Metal Specifications):

(a) Is a particular base metal required, such as iron, brass, or zinc alloy?

(b) Does this require actual gold plating, or is a gold-tone metal finish matching Pantone 104C acceptable?

(c) If gold plating is required, is there a required plating type or thickness?

Government Response:

No specific base metal is required. The contractor may use iron, brass, zinc alloy, or another commercially standard base metal suitable for production of a durable die-struck enamel lapel pin. Actual gold plating is not required. A commercial gold-tone plated finish generally consistent with the appearance of the Government's existing MVP pin is acceptable. There is no required precious-metal content or minimum plating thickness. Standard commercial manufacturing practices are acceptable, provided the finished pin is durable, professional in appearance, and materially consistent with the Government-approved preproduction sample.

Question 14 (Salient Characteristics - Pin Dimensions):

(a) Is there a required overall pin thickness or finished weight?

(b) What dimensional tolerance is acceptable for the specified 1.125-inch diameter?

(c) Are there required specifications for pin-post length, post position, rubber-backing size/color, or may contractor propose standard hardware?

Government Response:

There is no required finished weight or exact overall pin thickness. The nominal finished diameter shall be

1.125 inches. Normal commercial manufacturing tolerances are acceptable, provided the finished pin is materially consistent with the Government-approved preproduction sample. The pin shall have one pin post/needle and a black rubber clutch/backing, generally consistent with the existing MVP pin. No specific post length, exact post position, or rubber-backing dimensions are required. Standard commercial hardware appropriate for a lapel pin of this size is acceptable. The post shall be securely attached, and the rubber backing shall securely retain the pin during normal use.

Question 15 (Salient Characteristics - Packaging):

(a) Must the bag be clear?

(b) Are there required dimensions, thickness, material, or closure method (for the bag)?

(c) Are there any required master-carton quantities, labels, or packing configurations beyond safe delivery?

Government Response:

Each pin shall be individually enclosed in a clear, unprinted plastic/poly bag sufficient to protect the pin during shipment, handling, and storage. No specific bag dimensions, thickness, polymer composition, or closure method are required. Standard commercial resealable, self-sealing, or heat-sealed packaging is acceptable. No specific master-carton quantity or packing configuration is required beyond commercially reasonable packaging sufficient to protect the pins and ensure safe delivery. No advertising, manufacturer wording, or other unnecessary markings shall appear on the individual pin bags.

Question 16 (Salient Characteristics - Production Schedule):

(a) Should the 10 initial samples be produced and approved before the 100 additional samples are produced?

(b) Should the proposed delivery schedule include Government review time between the two sample stages?

(c) Is there an expected Government approval turnaround time for each sample stage?

(d) Is an approved physical sample required to serve as the controlling production reference for the bulk order?

Government Response:

Yes. The 10 samples under CLIN 0002 shall be produced, delivered, and approved before production of the 100 samples under CLIN 0003. Offerors should include reasonable Government review and approval time between the two sample stages when developing their proposed production schedule. Offerors should assume up to five (5) business days for Government review of each preproduction sample submission. The final Government-approved preproduction sample, together with the approved artwork and solicitation requirements, shall serve as the controlling visual and quality reference for bulk production.

Question 17 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule vs. Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

(a) Please confirm the correct delivery address for each CLIN.

(b) Please confirm whether the 90-day ARO requirement applies to the entire sequence.

(c) Please confirm whether November 29, 2026, or 90 days ARO is the controlling bulk-delivery requirement.

Government Response:

The intended physical delivery locations are: CLIN 0002 - 10 Preproduction Samples: 75 14th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. CLIN 0003 - 100 Preproduction Samples: Customer-selected delivery vendor address to be provided by the Government. CLIN 0001 - 140,000 Finished Production Pins: Customer-selected delivery vendor address to be provided by the Government. The VA Palo Alto Health Care System address appearing in Section B.3 is not the intended physical delivery location for these quantities. The contractor's production schedule shall account for the entire required sequence. The controlling requirement for CLIN 0001 is delivery of all 140,000 finished production pins no later than November 29, 2026.

Question 18 (No Corresponding Section - QA/QC and Acceptance Standards):

(a) Does the Government require a particular AQL inspection level, allowable defect rate, or other formal inspection standard?

(b) Is 100% visual inspection required?

(c) Are there required dimensional, color, plating, post-retention, or packaging tests?

(d) Is independent third-party inspection required?

(e) Must a manufacturer QA/QC plan, SOP, or inspection checklist be submitted with the quotation?

(f) Are there any additional acceptance criteria beyond conformance to the approved samples and stated salient characteristics?

Government Response:

The Government does not require a specific AQL inspection level, allowable defect percentage, independent third-party inspection, or submission of a manufacturer QA/QC plan, SOP, or inspection checklist with the quotation unless otherwise specified in the solicitation. The contractor is responsible for applying standard commercial quality-control practices sufficient to ensure that all delivered pins conform to the solicitation requirements and Government-approved preproduction sample. Government acceptance will be based on conformance with the solicitation requirements, approved artwork, and Government-approved preproduction sample. Minor variations inherent in normal commercial manufacturing are acceptable provided they do not materially affect appearance, function, durability, legibility, or consistency with the approved sample.

Question 19 (Section C - FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies; Salient Characteristics - No Additional Wording):

(a) Are pins manufactured in China acceptable if accurately identified as foreign end products and evaluated under Buy American requirements?

(b) Is a Buy American certificate or separate country-of-origin representation required with the quotation?

(c) If imported, how should legally required COO markings be handled given the no-markings design rule?

Government Response:

(a) Foreign end products are not automatically rejected solely because they are foreign. If a foreign end product is offered, it will be evaluated in accordance with the applicable solicitation requirements and FAR Part 25. No Buy American Act waivers are being considered.

(b) FAR 52.225-2, Buy American Certificate, is being added by amendment. Offerors shall complete the applicable certification and identify foreign end products and country of origin as required.

(c) The solicitation's design requirement prohibits additional country-of-origin wording or markings on the pin.

Question 20 (Section D - Attachments; Section E.5 - Factor 1, Technical):

(a) Will a production-ready vector artwork file be provided, or should the model-sheet PDF be used as production artwork?

(b) Does the descriptive-literature requirement require physical samples, or are specs/photos/prior-work sufficient?

Government Response:

The attached model sheet shall serve as the Government's design reference. The contractor shall prepare any production artwork or manufacturing proofs necessary to reproduce the required pin based on the Government-furnished design materials. Production artwork/proofs shall be subject to Government review and approval prior to manufacture of the required preproduction samples. If additional Government artwork files are available, they may be provided to the awardee. For quotation purposes, the descriptive-literature requirement does not require submission of a physical customized MVP pin sample unless specifically requested by the Contracting Officer. Descriptive literature may include product specifications, proposed materials and finishes, photographs, renderings, and examples of comparable prior work sufficient to demonstrate the offeror's ability to meet the solicitation requirements.

Question 21 (SF 1449 Block 5 - Solicitation Number vs. Continuation-Page Headers):

Please confirm which solicitation number should be used on the quotation and related documents.

Government Response:

The correct solicitation number is 36C26126Q0943. Offerors shall use RFQ 36C26126Q0943 on quotations and related documents.

Question 22 (SF 1449 Block 27a; Section E - Solicitation Provisions):

Are FAR provisions 52.212-3 and 52.212-5 missing from the solicitation, and if so, how should offerors address them?

Government Response:

The solicitation is being amended to correct the FAR 52.212-3 and 52.212-5 references. Offerors shall comply with the solicitation as amended.

Question 23 (Section D - Attachments / Model Sheet):

Which model-sheet version controls where the solicitation package contains three conflicting file names/versions?

Government Response:

The controlling model-sheet/design attachment is the file titled "MVP Logo Pin_Model Sheet" (PDF).

Offerors shall use that model sheet together with the solicitation's salient characteristics as the design reference. Following award, the Government-approved production artwork and approved preproduction sample will serve as the controlling references for bulk production.

Question 24 (Section C.3 - VAAR 852.212-71, Gray Market and Counterfeit Items):

Does VAAR 852.212-71, Gray Market and Counterfeit Items, including its OEM authorization requirements, apply to this requirement?

Government Response:

No. VAAR 852.212-71 does not apply to this requirement and is removed by this amendment.

Question 25 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule vs. Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

Please confirm whether the 90-day ARO requirement is the final outside delivery deadline for the overall order.

Government Response:

No. The 90-day ARO language is not the controlling final outside delivery deadline. The controlling requirement for CLIN 0001 is delivery of all 140,000 finished production pins no later than November 29, 2026. The 10-piece and 100-piece preproduction sample stages must occur earlier and sequentially, with Government approval between stages.

Question 26 (Salient Characteristics - Production Schedule; Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

Is there a required/preferred timeline for delivery and approval of the 10-pc and 100-pc samples before mass production?

Government Response:

Offerors shall propose a realistic schedule that shows the anticipated delivery of each sample stage, allows up to five (5) business days for Government review of each submission, and provides sufficient time for bulk production and final delivery by November 29, 2026. No separate preferred sample-delivery dates are established beyond these sequencing requirements.

Question 27 (Section C - FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies; Berry Amendment Applicability):

Does it require Buy American Act or Berry Amendment compliant products?

Government Response:

The Buy American requirements apply to this solicitation. Offerors shall comply with FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies. FAR 52.225-2, Buy American Certificate, is being added by amendment. The Berry Amendment does not apply to this VA requirement.

Question 28 (Salient Characteristics - Pin Design / Front Description):

Will the new run have a rope border like past versions?

Government Response:

Yes. The new production shall include the gold-tone rope-edge design consistent with the existing MVP pin.

Question 29 (Salient Characteristics - Pin Design / Back Description):

Is it acceptable to produce the backside text as raised (as shown/previous)?

Government Response:

Yes. The backside shall contain "mvp.va.gov" and no other wording except as otherwise required by law or the solicitation. The website text does not need to be printed in black. The text may be engraved, recessed, raised, stamped, or otherwise permanently formed into the metal surface, provided it is clearly legible, professional in appearance, and acceptable in the Government-approved preproduction sample.

Question 30 (No Corresponding Section - Prior Award/Pricing Request):

Can you provide the winning bid from the last time you received quotes for these pins?

Government Response:

No. The Government will not provide the prior winning bid in response to this solicitation.

Question 31 (Statement of Requirement / Salient Characteristics - Manufacturing Location):

Is there a required location of manufacturing for the pins?

Government Response:

The salient characteristics do not establish a separate geographic manufacturing-location requirement.

The contractor must comply with all applicable solicitation terms and clauses, including any domestic-preference, trade, country-of-origin, or other sourcing requirements applicable to the acquisition.

Question 32 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule):

Will the entire order ship at once, or in monthly lower-quantity orders?

Government Response:

The Government anticipates one complete shipment of the 140,000 finished production pins under CLIN 0001. Monthly or recurring lower-quantity shipments may be accepted. Partial or phased deliveries may be made only if approved in advance by the Government. The complete production quantity must be delivered no later than November 29, 2026.

Question 33 (Section E.4 - Small Business Program Representations; 13 CFR 121.406 - Nonmanufacturer Rule):

Does the Nonmanufacturer Rule (13 CFR 121.406) apply to this solicitation?

Government Response:

Yes. The Nonmanufacturer Rule applies to this total small business set-aside. Offerors that are nonmanufacturers must comply with the applicable requirements of 13 CFR 121.406.

Question 34 (Section E.4 - Small Business Program Representations; 13 CFR 121.406 - Nonmanufacturer Rule Waiver):

Has an individual or class NMR waiver been granted or determined to apply to this procurement?

Government Response:

No. No individual or class waiver of the Nonmanufacturer Rule has been granted or determined to apply to this procurement.

Question 35 (Section E.4 - Small Business Program Representations; Section C - FAR 52.225- 1):

Would a small-business reseller/nonmanufacturer using an overseas manufacturer be eligible to quote if fully compliant?

Government Response:

Offerors may submit quotations in accordance with the solicitation. Eligibility for award will be determined based on compliance with all applicable solicitation requirements, including the Nonmanufacturer Rule and Buy American requirements. The Government will not make an advance eligibility determination based on a hypothetical supply arrangement.

Question 36 (No Corresponding Section - Export of Items):

Can the items be exported?

Government Response:

The solicitation does not include a requirement for the Government to export the items. The contractor is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws and regulations associated with its proposed method of performance.

Question 37 (Salient Characteristics - No Additional Wording / Country-of-Origin Marking):

(a) Does the Government intend the "no additional wording" requirement to prohibit a country-of-origin mark on the reverse of the pin?

(b) If a manufacturer states it cannot/will not omit a COO mark, would the pin be deemed technically unacceptable?

Government Response:

(a) Yes. The "no additional wording" requirement prohibits country-of-origin markings on the pin.

(b) The offered product must conform to the solicitation's required design and salient characteristics. A pin containing additional wording or markings prohibited by the solicitation would not conform to the stated technical requirement.

Question 38 (Salient Characteristics - Production Schedule; Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

(a) What turnaround should offerors assume between sample delivery and Government approval decision?

(b) If Government approval is delayed, will the CLIN 0001 delivery date be adjusted accordingly?

(c) Is more than one sample submission anticipated?

Government Response:

Offerors should assume up to five (5) business days for Government review of each preproduction sample submission. One conforming submission is anticipated for each sample stage; additional submissions will be required only if a sample is not approved. If a Government-caused approval delay extends beyond the stated review period and affects the contractor's ability to meet the required final delivery date, the contractor shall promptly notify the Contracting Officer. Any adjustment to the delivery schedule will be made only by written modification, as appropriate.

Question 39 (Salient Characteristics - Delivery Schedule; Section B.3 - Delivery Schedule):

Please confirm the delivery address for CLIN 0003, or confirm it should match CLIN 0002.

Government Response:

The exact delivery address for CLIN 0003 will be provided by the Government following award and prior to shipment. Offerors should not assume that CLIN 0003 will be delivered to the same address as CLIN 0002. For quotation purposes, offerors shall include delivery of CLIN 0003 to a Government-designated destination within the contiguous United States (CONUS).

Question 40 (Salient Characteristics - Packaging):

(a) Please confirm that a plain unprinted poly bag with no labelling is required.

(b) Is there any requirement governing how bagged pins are grouped into cartons?

Government Response:

(a) Yes. Each individual pin shall be packaged in a plain, clear, unprinted plastic/poly bag with no advertising, manufacturer information, sticker, or other unit-level labeling applied to the bag. Normal shipping and identification markings may be applied to outer shipping cartons as necessary.

(b) No fixed quantity per master carton is required. The contractor may use a commercially reasonable carton configuration that protects the individually bagged pins during shipment and handling. No special carton-level marking is required beyond normal carrier/shipping information and any contract, destination, or quantity identification necessary for delivery and receipt.

Question 41 (Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 - Submittal Instructions):

Please confirm the quotation submission mechanics and whether there is a separate bidding platform for this solicitation.

Government Response:

SAM.gov Contract Opportunities is the posting location for this solicitation; quotations are not submitted through SAM.gov. PIEE is not used for this VA solicitation. Quotations shall be submitted by email in accordance with the submission instructions contained in the solicitation.

Question 42 (Salient Characteristics - Pin Construction / Post Position):

Is it possible the nail would be on the bottom of the pin (upside-down concern)?

Government Response:

The pin post/needle shall be positioned on the upper portion of the back of the pin, generally consistent with the existing MVP pin, so that the pin maintains the intended upright orientation when worn. The post shall not be positioned at the bottom of the pin. Exact placement may follow standard commercial manufacturing practice and is subject to approval of the preproduction sample.

Question 43 (Salient Characteristics - Pin Construction / Rubber Backing):

Does "rubber backing" mean replacing a metal military clutch with a rubber clutch?

Government Response:

Yes. The required rubber backing means a rubber clutch/backing shall be used in place of a metal military-style clutch. A black rubber clutch/backing, generally consistent with the existing MVP pin, is required.

Question 44 (Salient Characteristics - Metal Specifications):

There were no specifications regarding base metal (brass, iron?)

Government Response:

No specific base metal is required. The contractor may use iron, brass, zinc alloy, or another commercially standard base metal suitable for production of a durable die-struck soft-enamel lapel pin.

The finished pin must meet the required appearance, durability, and Government-approved preproduction sample.

Question 45 (Salient Characteristics - Enamel Specifications):

Will colors be soft enameled or hard enameled?

Government Response:

The pins shall use soft enamel. Hard enamel is not required. Pantone 541C and Pantone 188C are the required enamel color references, subject to Government approval of the preproduction sample.

Question 46 (Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 - Submittal Instructions):

Should the quotation/bid be submitted through SAM.gov or PIEE?

Government Response:

Neither. SAM.gov Contract Opportunities is the posting location for this solicitation; quotations are not submitted through SAM.gov. PIEE is not used for this VA solicitation. Quotations shall be submitted by email in accordance with the submission instructions contained in the solicitation.

Question 47 (Statement of Requirement vs. Section B.2 - CLIN Structure):

Are CLINs 0002/0003 in addition to the 140,000 under CLIN 0001 (140,110 total), or included within 140,000?

Government Response:

CLIN 0001 consists of 140,000 finished production pins. The 10 preproduction samples under CLIN 0002 and the 100 preproduction samples under CLIN 0003 are in addition to the 140,000 finished production pins under CLIN 0001. The total quantity, including preproduction samples, is therefore 140,110 pins.

Question 48 (Section E.5 - Factor 1, Technical):

Are offerors required to submit a physical sample with their quote, or are photos/prior-work/descriptive literature sufficient for Factor 1?

Government Response:

A physical customized MVP pin sample is not required with the quotation. Photographs, examples of comparable prior work, product specifications, proposed material and finish information, and other descriptive literature sufficient to demonstrate the offeror's ability to meet the technical requirements are acceptable for evaluation under Factor 1. Required physical preproduction samples will be furnished following award under CLINs 0002 and 0003.

Question 49 (Salient Characteristics - Sample Approval/Rejection; VAAR 852.246-71, Rejected Goods):

Is the contractor required to correct and resubmit rejected samples at no additional cost?

Government Response:

Yes. If a preproduction sample does not conform to the solicitation requirements, approved artwork, or required design characteristics, the contractor shall correct the identified deficiencies and submit replacement samples at no additional cost to the Government. The contractor shall not proceed to the next production stage until the applicable corrected sample has been approved by the Government.

Question 50 (Salient Characteristics - Sample Approval/Rejection; VAAR 852.246-71, Rejected Goods):

If so, what is the required timeframe for resubmission?

Government Response:

The Contracting Officer will establish the required resubmission date based on the nature of the deficiency and the remaining production and delivery schedule.

Question 51 (Section E.5 - Evaluation - More Than the Minimum / Additional Benefits):

What constitutes "more than the minimum" or an "additional benefit" for this requirement?

Government Response:

An offeror must meet all minimum solicitation requirements. An offeror may also provide features or benefits that exceed the minimum requirements, provided the offered product remains fully compliant with the required salient characteristics. The Government may consider such additional benefits as part of its comparative evaluation.

PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. UEI: EFT:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

36C261-26-AP-4658

640-26-3-171-0164

36C26126Q0943 08-10-2026

Janetra Johnson 5592256100 08-28-2026

12PM PDT

339999

550 Employees

N/A

** See Delivery Schedule **

FMS-VA-2(101) Financial Services Center

PO BOX 149971

Austin TX 78714-9971

REQUEST FOR QUOTE: For custom Million Veteran lapel pins.

QUOTES ARE DUE: SEE BLOCK #8

Pay particular attention to addendum to FAR 52.212-1 and 52.212-2 for submission instructions and requirements.

Questions and quotes shall be submitted to:

- Edward Hunter at edward.hunter@va.gov

- Janetra Johnson at janetra.johnson@va.gov

Edward Hunter Contracting Officer

Table of Contents

A.1 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE ......................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

ITEM INFORMATION .................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

A.2 DELIVERY SCHEDULE ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.3 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.2 VAAR 852.203-70 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING (MAY 2018)

C.3 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2018)

C.4 VAAR 852.242-71 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICER (OCT 2020) ... 23

C.5 VAAR 852.246-71 REJECTED GOODS (OCT 2018)

C.6 VAAR 852.247-73 PACKING FOR DOMESTIC SHIPMENT (OCT 2018)

C.7 52.219-28 POSTAWARD SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REREPRESENTATION

(NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.2 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (OCT 2025) (DEVIATION)

E.3 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

E.4 52.219-1 SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATIONS (NOV 2025)

(DEVIATION)

E.5 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL

SERVICES (OCT 2025) (DEVIATION)

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C261

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

[X] 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System For Award Management, or

[] 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

a. Quarterly []

b. Semi-Annually []

c. Other [X] Upon Government Inspection and Acceptance

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

AMENDMENT NO DATE

System for Award Management (SAM)

System updates may lag policy updates. The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in agency solicitations. Examples include 52.222-25, Affirmative Action Compliance, and paragraph (d) of 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications—Commercial Products and Commercial Services.

Contracting officers will not consider these representations when making award decisions or enforce requirements. Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.

Statement of Requirement

The Research Service (151A) at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System requires the purchase of custom Million Veteran Program (MVP) lapel pins, including design, manufacture, rubber backing, individual packaging, and delivery. The requirement consists of 140,000 finished production pins, plus 10 initial preproduction samples and 100 additional preproduction samples, for a total quantity of 140,110 pins.

These pins are distributed to MVP research participants upon enrollment as a recognition and engagement item supporting one of VA's largest research initiatives, with over 1.1 million Veterans currently enrolled. This procurement will replenish that stock to ensure uninterrupted recognition of newly enrolled participants.

The preproduction sample process shall be sequential.

1. The Contractor shall first produce and deliver 10 preproduction samples for Government review and approval.

2. The Contractor shall not begin production of the 100 additional preproduction samples until the Government has approved the initial 10 samples.

3. Full production of the 140,000 finished production pins shall not begin until the Government has approved the 100 additional preproduction samples.

4. The Contractor shall allow up to five (5) business days for Government review of each preproduction sample submission.

Salient Characteristics

Million Veteran Program (MVP) Pins

Customized lapel pin design (see attachment MVP Logo Pin_Model Sheet (PDF)).

• Construction: Traditional die-struck, soft-enamel metal lapel pin. A digitally printed pin that materially changes the raised/recessed metal detailing, enamel appearance, rope-edge design, or overall character of the Government's existing MVP pin is not acceptable.

• Size: Nominal 1.125-inch diameter circular metal pin. Normal commercial manufacturing tolerances are acceptable, provided the finished pin is materially consistent with the Government-approved preproduction sample. No specific finished weight or exact overall thickness is required.

• Front Design: The front of the pin shall contain a map of the USA with the MVP logo on top, three stars on each side of the pin, the wording “DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS” at the top, “MILLION VETERAN PROGRAM” at the bottom, and a gold-tone rope-edge design. No other wording or markings shall appear on the front of the pin.

• Back Design: The back of the pin shall contain “mvp.va.gov” and no other wording or markings. The website text may be engraved, recessed, raised, stamped, or otherwise permanently formed into the metal surface, provided it is clearly legible and professional in appearance.

• Base Metal: No specific base metal is required. Iron, brass, zinc alloy, or another commercially standard base metal suitable for production of a durable die-struck soft-enamel lapel pin is acceptable.

• Metal Finish: Exposed metal areas shall have a bright/polished gold-tone finish generally consistent with the Government's existing MVP pin. Pantone 104C identifies the approximate gold-tone appearance and does not require Pantone-matched paint or enamel over the exposed metal. Actual gold or other precious-metal plating is not required. No minimum plating thickness is required.

• Enamel: Soft enamel shall be used. Required enamel color references are Pantone 541C and Pantone 188C. Minor commercially reasonable color variation is acceptable, provided the finished colors are consistent with the Government-approved preproduction sample.

• Font: Myriad Pro:

o Bold o Semibold o Semibold Condensed

• Pin Post and Backing: The pin shall have one securely attached pin post/needle positioned on the upper portion of the back of the pin so that the pin maintains its intended upright orientation when worn. The pin shall use a black rubber clutch/backing in place of a metal military-style clutch. Standard commercial hardware appropriate for a lapel pin of this size is acceptable.

• Packaging: Each finished pin shall be individually enclosed in a plain, clear, unprinted plastic/poly bag sufficient to protect the pin during shipment, handling, and storage. No advertising, manufacturer information, sticker, or other unit-level labeling shall be applied to the individual bag. No specific bag dimensions, thickness, polymer composition, or closure method are required. Standard commercial resealable, self-sealing, or heat-sealed packaging is acceptable. No fixed master-carton quantity or configuration is required. Outer shipping cartons may contain normal carrier/shipping information and contract, destination, or quantity identification necessary for delivery and receipt.

• Quantity: CLIN 0001 consists of 140,000 finished production pins. The 10 preproduction samples under CLIN 0002 and 100 preproduction samples under CLIN 0003 are in addition to the CLIN 0001 production quantity, for a total quantity of 140,110 pins.

Production and Approval Schedule

1. CLIN 0002 — 10 Preproduction Samples: The Contractor shall first produce and deliver 10 preproduction samples to 75 14th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. The Contractor shall not begin production of CLIN 0003 until the Government has approved the CLIN 0002 samples.

2. Government Review — CLIN 0002: The Contractor shall allow up to five (5) business days for Government review of the CLIN 0002 sample submission.

3. CLIN 0003 — 100 Preproduction Samples: Following Government approval of CLIN 0002, the Contractor shall produce and deliver 100 preproduction samples to a Government-designated destination within the contiguous United States (CONUS). The exact delivery address will be provided following award and prior to shipment.

4. Government Review — CLIN 0003: The Contractor shall allow up to five (5) business days for Government review of the CLIN 0003 sample submission. Full production under CLIN 0001 shall not begin until the Government has approved the CLIN 0003 samples.

5. Sample Correction/Resubmission: If a preproduction sample does not conform to the solicitation requirements, approved artwork, or required design characteristics, the Contractor shall correct the identified deficiencies and submit replacement samples at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor shall not proceed to the next production stage until the applicable corrected sample has been approved. The Contracting Officer will establish the required resubmission date based on the nature of the deficiency and remaining production and delivery schedule.

6. Controlling Production Reference: The final Government-approved preproduction sample, together with the approved artwork and solicitation requirements, shall serve as the controlling visual and quality reference for bulk production.

7. CLIN 0001 — Full Production: Following Government approval of CLIN 0003, the Contractor shall produce 140,000 finished production pins.

Final Delivery

The Contractor shall deliver all 140,000 finished production pins under CLIN 0001 to a Government-designated destination to be provided following award and prior to shipment. The Government anticipates one complete shipment. Partial or phased deliveries may be made only if approved in advance by the Government.

The complete CLIN 0001 production quantity shall be delivered no later than November 29, 2026.

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

140,000.00 EA __________________ __________________

Custom Lapel Pins for the national Million Veteran Program

Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 339999 - All Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 8455 - Badges and Insignia

MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): TBD

10.00 EA __________________ __________________

Sample Custom Lapel Pins for the national Million Veteran Program

Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 339999 - All Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing

100.00 EA __________________ __________________

Sample Custom Lapel Pins for the national Million Veteran Program

Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 339999 - All Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing

GRAND TOTAL __________________

B.3 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

ITEM

NUMBER SHIPPING INFORMATION QUANTITY DELIVERY DATE

0001 SHIP TO: TBD

140,000.00 11-29-2026

MARK FOR: TBD

INSTRUCTIONS: Government-designated destination; address provided after award. NLT 11/29/2026

FOB: DESTINATION

0002 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program (MVP) Pins 75 14th Street NE Washington, DC 20002

USA

10.00

MARK FOR: TBD

0003 SHIP TO: TBD

100.00

MARK FOR: TBD

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-

52#FAR_52_252_2

http://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/index.asp

(End of Clause)

FAR

Num…