D. RFQ 75N95024Q00097.pdf

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER)

THIS RFQ IS IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE

15. DATE OF QUOTATION

16. SIGNER

a. NAME (Type or print)

c. TITLE (Type or print)

b. TELEPHONE

AREA CODE

NUMBER

STANDARD FORM 18 (REV. 6/1995)

Prescribed by GSA-FAR (48 CFR) 53.215-1(a)

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition not usable

8. TO:

b. COMPANYa. NAME

c. STREET ADDRESS

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

9. DESTINATION

a. NAME OF CONSIGNEE

b. STREET ADDRESS

c. CITY

d. STATE e. ZIP CODE

7. DELIVERY

FOB DESTINATION

OTHER

(See Schedule)

10. PLEASE FURNISH QUOTATIONS TO THE

ISSUING OFFICE IN BLOCK 5a ON OR BEFORE CLOSE OF BUSINESS (Date)

IMPORTANT: This is a request for information and quotations furnished are not offers. If you are unable to quote, please so indicate on this form and return it to the address in Block 5a. This request does not commit the Government to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of the submission of this quotation or to contract for supplies or service. Supplies are of domestic origin unless otherwise indicated by quoter. Any representations and/or certifications attached to this Request for Quotation must be completed by the quoter.

11. SCHEDULE (Include applicable Federal, State and local taxes)

ITEM NUMBER

(a)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(b)

QUANTITY

(c)

UNIT

(d)

UNIT PRICE

(e)

AMOUNT

(f)

12. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

a. 10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) b. 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) c. 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) d. CALENDAR DAYS

NUMBER PERCENTAGE

NOTE: Additional provisions and representations are are not attached.

13. NAME AND ADDRESS OF QUOTER

a. NAME OF QUOTER

b. STREET ADDRESS

c. COUNTY

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

14. SIGNATURE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO

SIGN QUOTATION

PAGE OF PAGES

1. REQUEST NUMBER 2. DATE ISSUED 3. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NUMBER 4. CERT. FOR NAT. DEF.

UNDER BDSA REG. 2

AND/OR DMS REG. 1

RATING

5a. ISSUED BY 6. DELIVER BY (Date)

5b. FOR INFORMATION CALL (NO COLLECT CALLS)

NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER

AREA CODE NUMBER

To be specified at time of award75N95024Q00097

Office of Acquisition (OA), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Rieka Plugge, rieka.plugge@nih.gov

Interested Offerors

RFQ Project Title: NINDS Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course Program The purpose of this procurement is for a Contractor to provide support services for a Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course to prepare students from populations traditionally underrepresented in science, such as the American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN), to be competitive applicants for the NIH Summer Intern Program (SIP).

RFQ Attachments:

Attachment 1 - Statement of Work & Appendix 1 Attachment 2 - Supplemental Quotation Instructions Attachment 3 - Evaluation Criteria Attachment 4 - Pricing Table Attachment 5 - FAR 52.213-4 Attachment 6 - NIH Invoice Instructions with IPP Attachment 7 - FAR 52.204-26 & 52.204-24

301 827-7515

NIDA OA

11601 Landsdown Street

Bethesda

20892MD

03/08/2024

3/22/2024 4PM

SF-18 Continuation

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION #75N95024Q00097

PART I – GENERAL INFORMATION TO OFFERORS

1.1. Introduc�on

This Request for Quota�on (RFQ) is prepared in accordance with the Federal Acquisi�on Regula�ons (FAR) Part 13 - Simplified Acquisi�on Procedures. You are hereby invited to submit a quota�on in response to this RFQ. Respondents may submit a response in accordance with the instruc�ons in this document.

a. The Na�onal Ins�tute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) on behalf of the Na�onal Ins�tute of Neurological

Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has a requirement for a Scien�fic Research Preparatory Summer Course to prepare students from popula�ons tradi�onally underrepresented in science, such as the American Indian/Alaska Na�ve (AIAN), to be compe��ve applicants for the NIH Summer Intern Program (SIP). NIH seeks colleges, universi�es and medical schools uniquely situated near AIAN communi�es and suited to provide a scholarly scien�fic curriculum and administer the AIAN SIP Prep Program. The Tradi�onal Knowledge component of course cannot be presented by anyone outside the Na�ve community.

b. Acquisi�on Authority: This acquisi�on is being conducted under Federal Acquisi�on

Regula�ons (FAR) Part 13 - Simplified Acquisi�on Procedures and is not expected to exceed the simplified acquisi�on threshold, which is $250,000.00. The resultant contract award will include all applicable provisions and clauses in effect through Federal Acquisi�on Circular 2024-03, dated 02/23/2024.

c. North American Classifica�on System (NAICS) Code: 611310 Colleges, Universi�es, and

Professional Schools (Size Standard $34.5M)

d. Set-aside Status: No restric�ons

e. Compe��on Status: Full and Open Compe��on

1.2. NIH Contact Points

Contrac�ng Officer (CO):

Rieka Plugge Phone: (301) 827-7515 Email: rieka.plugge@nih.gov

Contrac�ng Officer’s Representa�ve (COR):

The following Contrac�ng Officer Representa�ve (COR) will represent the Government for the purpose of this contract:

[To be specified at time of award]

The COR is responsible for: (1) monitoring the Contractor's technical progress, including the mailto:rieka.plugge@nih.gov surveillance and assessment of performance and recommending to the Contrac�ng Officer changes in requirements; (2) interpre�ng the statement of work and any other technical performance requirements; (3) performing technical evalua�on as required; (4) performing technical inspec�ons and acceptances required by this contract; and (5) assis�ng in the resolu�on of technical problems encountered during performance.

The Contrac�ng Officer is the only person with authority to act as agent of the Government under this contract. Only the Contrac�ng Officer has authority to: (1) direct or nego�ate any changes in the statement of work; (2) modify or extend the period of performance; (3) change the delivery schedule; (4) authorize reimbursement to the Contractor for any costs incurred during the performance of this contract; (5) otherwise change any terms and condi�ons of this contract; or

(6) sign writen licensing agreements. Any signed agreement shall be incorporated by reference into the resultant award.

The Government may unilaterally change its COR designa�on.

1.3. Quota�on Submission

a. Offerors must submit its quote package (business volume, technical volume, signed FAR provisions at 52.204-26 and 52.204-24 pursuant to FAR 4.2103 Procedures) to rieka.plugge@nih.gov by 4:00 P.M., Eastern Standard Time, on 3/22/2024.

The request for quote number 75N95024Q00097 and the Offeror’s company name must be referenced in the subject line of the email transmission.

b. The quote must be signed by an authorized signatory authority of the company.

c. Your quote package* should include:

Business Volume Technical Volume

*See Atachment 2 - Supplemental Quota�on Instruc�ons for more details on how to prepare your quote package.

1.4. Request for Clarifica�on/Ques�ons

a. Requests for clarifica�on/solicita�on ques�ons may be submited electronically to the

Contrac�ng Officer not later than 1:00 P.M., Eastern Standard Time on 3/13/2024.

b. When submi�ng requests for clarifica�on, respondents must cite the relevant sec�on, paragraph, and page number. Ques�ons should be writen in a way that enables clear understanding of the respondents’ issues or concerns. Statements expressing opinions, sen�ments, or conjectures are not considered valid inquiries and will not be provided a response. Further, respondents are reminded that the Contrac�ng Officer will not address hypothe�cal ques�ons aimed at receiving a poten�al “evalua�on decision.”

c. Respondents may submit no more than ten (10) ques�ons for clarifica�on.

d. Writen responses to the ques�ons will be provided to all respondents through an amendment to the solicita�on on Contract Opportuni�es on www.SAM.gov.

1.5. Award Date and Number of Awards

a. It is an�cipated that none, one or more awards will be made from this solicita�on and that the award(s) will be made on/about 4/05/2024.

b. It is an�cipated that any resultant purchase order award(s) from this RFQ is Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) type with an an�cipated period of performance of:

Base Period: 4/05/2024 – 4/04/2025 (12-months) Op�on Period One (1): 4/05/2025 – 4/04/2026 (12-months)

See Atachment 1 - Statement of Work for more details.

1.6. Late Quota�on Provisions

a. Any Quota�on, modifica�on, or revision that is received at the designated Government office a�er the exact date and �me specified for receipt of Quota�ons is “late” and may not be considered, at the discre�on of the Contrac�ng Officer. Quota�ons received “late” may not be evaluated or considered for award and may be returned to the offeror.

b. Acceptable evidence to establish the �me of receipt at the Government installa�on includes the �me/date stamp of that installa�on on the Quota�on wrapper, other documentary evidence of receipt maintained by the installa�on, or oral tes�mony or statements of Government personnel.

c. If an emergency or unan�cipated event interrupts normal Government processes so that

Quota�ons cannot be received at the Government office designated for receipt of Quota�ons by the exact �me specified in the solicita�on, and urgent Government requirements preclude amendment of the solicita�on closing date, the �me specified for receipt of Quota�ons will be deemed to be extended to the same �me of day specified in the solicita�on on the first work day on which normal Government processes resume.

1.7. Terms and Condi�ons

a. In responding to this RFQ, it is the respondent’s responsibility to provide current, relevant, complete, and accurate informa�on in their quota�on.

b. This RFQ does not commit the Government to pay any cost incurred in the submission of quotes-Quota�ons or make necessary studies or designs for the prepara�on thereof, nor to procure or contract for the products or services.

c. The Contrac�ng Officer is the only individual who can legally commit the Government to the expenditure of public funds in connec�on with this RFQ. Any other commitment, either explicit or implied, is invalid.

d. A response to this RFQ is not to be considered an offer that can be accepted by the

Government to form a binding contract. The actual purchase order is considered the offer by the Government to the contractor and the respondent’s writen acceptance of the purchase order, or the commencement of performance under the order, is the respondent’s indica�on of their acceptance of the offer.

e. In addi�on to the clauses and/or provisions of this RFQ, the resultant purchase order may include FAR Clause 52.213-4 Terms and Condi�ons—Simplified Acquisi�on (Other Than Commercial Items), and any other clauses and/or provisions required by Public Law, Execu�ve Order, or the Health and Human Services Acquisi�on Regula�ons (HHSAR) applicable to or in effect at the �me of execu�on of the award.

f. Poten�al award without discussions. The Government reserves the right to issue an award(s) without discussions if the Contrac�ng Officer determines that the ini�al prices are fair and reasonable and that discussions are not necessary.

g. If an award(s) will be made without conduc�ng discussions, the respondent may be given the opportunity to clarify certain aspects of its Quota�on to which the respondent has not previously had an opportunity to respond or to resolve minor or clerical errors.

h. The RFQ may be amended or canceled, as necessary, to meet the Government’s requirements.

i. All documents and deliverables described in this RFQ and amendments or modifica�ons, shall be submited in a professional manner and on the prime respondent’s leterhead. All work (hardware, so�ware, and services) must be Year 2000 Compliant.

j. The following FAR Provisions and Clauses are either incorporated by reference or included in full text.:

1) FAR 52.252-1 Solicita�on Provisions Incorporated by Reference (FEB 1998)

This solicita�on incorporates one or more solicita�on provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contrac�ng Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cau�oned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submited with its quota�on or offer. In lieu of submi�ng the full text of those provisions, the offeror may iden�fy the provision by paragraph iden�fier and provide the appropriate informa�on with its quota�on or offer. Also, the full text of a solicita�on provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

htps://www.acquisi�on.gov/ htps://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/contracts/contract-policies-regula�ons/hhsar/part-352-solicita�on-provisions-contract-clauses/index.html

(End of provision)

2) FAR 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 Contrac�ng Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

htps://www.acquisi�on.gov/ htps://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/contracts/contract-policies-https://www.acquisition.gov/ https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/hhsar/part-352-solicitation-provisions-contract-clauses/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/hhsar/part-352-solicitation-provisions-contract-clauses/index.html https://www.acquisition.gov/ https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/hhsar/part-352-solicitation-provisions-contract-clauses/index.html regula�ons/hhsar/part-352-solicita�on-provisions-contract-clauses/index.html

(End of clause)

3) FAR Provision 52.204-7 System for Award Management (OCT 2018)

4) FAR Provision 52.204-16 Commercial and Government En�ty Code Repor�ng (AUG 2020)

5) FAR Clause 52.204-13 System for Award Management Maintenance (OCT 2018)

6) FAR Clause 52.204-18 Commercial and Government En�ty Code Maintenance (AUG 2020)

7) FAR Provision 52.204-24 Representa�on Regarding Certain Telecommunica�ons and

Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (NOV 2021) and FAR Provision 52.204-26 Covered Telecommunica�ons Equipment or Services-Representa�on (OCT 2020) in accordance with FAR 4.2103 Procedures – Atachment 7

8) FAR Clause 52.213-4 Terms and Condi�ons – Simplified Acquisi�on (Other Than Commercial Items or Services) (FEB 2024) – Atachment 5.

9) FAR Provision 52.217-5 Evalua�on of Op�ons (JUL 1990)

10) FAR Clause 52.217-9 Op�on to Extend the Term of the Contract (MAR 2000)

The Government may extend the term of this contract by writen no�ce to the Contractor within the current period of performance provided that the Government gives the Contractor a preliminary writen no�ce of its intent to extend at least 30 days before the contract expires. The preliminary no�ce does not commit the Government to an extension.

If the Government exercises this op�on, the extended contract shall be considered to include this op�on clause.

The total dura�on of this contract, including the exercise of any op�ons under this clause, shall not exceed two (2) years.

(End of Clause)

11) FAR Clause 52.227-14 Rights in Data-General (MAY 2014)

12) FAR Clause 52.227-16 Addi�onal Data Requirements (JUN 1987)

13) FAR Clause 52.227-17 Rights in Data – Special Works (DEC 2007)

14) FAR Clause 52.242-17 Government Delay of Work (APR 1984)

15) HHSAR Clause 352.222-70 Contractor Coopera�on in Equal Employment Opportunity

Inves�ga�ons (December 18, 2015) https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/hhsar/part-352-solicitation-provisions-contract-clauses/index.html

(a) In addi�on to complying with the clause at FAR 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity, the Contractor shall, in good faith, cooperate with the Department of Health and Human Services (Agency) in inves�ga�ons of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaints processed pursuant to 29 CFR part 1614. For purposes of this clause, the following defini�ons apply:

(1) Complaint means a formal or informal complaint that has been lodged with Agency management, Agency EEO officials, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), or a court of competent jurisdic�on.

(2) Contractor employee means all current Contractor employees who work or worked under this contract. The term also includes current employees of subcontractors who work or worked under this contract. In the case of Contractor and subcontractor employees, who worked under this contract, but who are no longer employed by the Contractor or subcontractor, or who have been assigned to another en�ty within the Contractor’s or subcontractor’s organiza�on, the Contractor shall provide the Agency with that employee’s last known mailing address, e-mail address, and telephone number, if that employee has been iden�fied as a witness in an EEO complaint or inves�ga�on.

(3) Good faith coopera�on cited in paragraph (a) includes, but is not limited to, making Contractor employees available for:

(i) Formal and informal interviews by EEO counselors or other Agency officials processing EEO complaints;

(ii) Formal or informal interviews by EEO inves�gators charged with inves�ga�ng complaints of unlawful discrimina�on filed by Federal employees;

(iii) Reviewing and signing appropriate affidavits or declara�ons summarizing statements provided by such Contractor employees during the course of EEO inves�ga�ons;

(iv) Producing documents requested by EEO counselors, EEO inves�gators, Agency employees, or the EEOC in connec�on with a pending EEO complaint; and

(v) Preparing for and providing tes�mony in deposi�ons or in hearings before the MSPB, EEOC and U.S. District Court.

(b) The Contractor shall include the provisions of this clause in all subcontract solicita�ons and subcontracts awarded at any �er under this contract.

(c) Failure on the part of the Contractor or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contrac�ng Officer to terminate this contract for default.

16) HHSAR Clause 352.227-70, Publica�ons and Publicity (December 18, 2015)

(a) Unless otherwise specified in this contract, the Contractor may publish the results of its work under this contract. The Contractor shall promptly send a copy of each ar�cle submited for publica�on to the Contrac�ng Officer’s Representa�ve. The Contractor shall also inform the Contrac�ng Officer’s Representa�ve when the ar�cle or other publica�on is published, and furnish a copy of it as finally published.

(b) Unless authorized in wri�ng by the Contrac�ng Officer, the Contractor shall not display the HHS logo including Opera�ng Division or Staff Division logos on any publica�ons.

(c) The Contractor shall not reference the product(s) or service(s) awarded under this contract in commercial adver�sing, as defined in FAR 31.205-1, in any manner which states or implies HHS approval or endorsement of the product(s) or service(s) provided.

(d) The contractor shall include this clause, including this sec�on (d) in all subcontracts where the subcontractor may propose publishing the results of its work under the subcontract.

17) HHSAR Clause 352.231-70 Salary Rate Limita�on (December 18, 2015)

(a) The Contractor shall not use contract funds to pay the direct salary of an individual at a rate in excess of the Federal Execu�ve Schedule Level II in effect on the date the funding was obligated.

(b) For purposes of the salary rate limita�on, the terms “direct salary,” “salary,” and “ins�tu�onal base salary,” have the same meaning and are collec�vely referred to as “direct salary,” in this clause. An individual's direct salary is the annual compensa�on that the Contractor pays for an individual's direct effort (costs) under the contract.

Direct salary excludes any income that an individual may be permited to earn outside of du�es to the Contractor. Direct salary also excludes fringe benefits, overhead, and general and administra�ve expenses (also referred to as indirect costs or facili�es and administra�ve costs). The salary rate limita�on does not restrict the salary that an organiza�on may pay an individual working under a Department of Health and Human Services contract or order; it merely limits the por�on of that salary that may be paid with contract funds.

(c) The salary rate limita�on also applies to individuals under subcontracts.

(d) If this is a mul�ple-year contract or order, it may be subject to unilateral modifica�on by the Contrac�ng Officer to ensure that an individual is not paid at a rate that exceeds the salary rate limita�on provision established in the HHS appropria�ons act used to fund this contract.

(e) See the salaries and wages pay tables on the Office of Personnel Management website for Federal Execu�ve Schedule salary levels.

18) HHSAR Clause 352.237-75 Key Personnel (December 18, 2015)

The key personnel specified in this contract are considered to be essential to work performance. At least 30 days prior to the contractor voluntarily diverting any of the specified individuals to other programs or contracts the Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer and shall submit a justification for the diversion or replacement and a request to replace the individual. The request must identify the proposed replacement and provide an explanation of how the replacement's skills, experience, and credentials meet or exceed the requirements of the contract (including, when applicable, Human Subjects Testing requirements). If the employee of the contractor is terminated for cause or separates from the contractor voluntarily with less than thirty days notice, the Contractor shall provide the maximum notice practicable under the circumstances. The Contractor shall not divert, replace, or announce any such change to key personnel without the written consent of the Contracting Officer. The contract will be modified to add or delete key personnel as necessary to reflect the agreement of the parties.

(End of clause)

The following individual(s) is/are considered to be essential to the work being performed hereunder:

Name Title

19) HHSAR Provision 352.239-73 Electronic Informa�on and Technology Accessibility

No�ce (December 18, 2015)

(a) Sec�on 508 of the Rehabilita�on Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d), as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the Architectural and Transporta�on Barriers Compliance Board Electronic and Informa�on (EIT) Accessibility Standards (36 CFR part 1194), require that when Federal agencies develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and informa�on technology, Federal employees with disabili�es have access to and use of informa�on and data that is comparable to the access and use by Federal employees who are not individuals with disabili�es, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency. Sec�on 508 also requires that individuals with disabili�es, who are members of the public seeking informa�on or services from a Federal agency, have access to and use of informa�on and data that is comparable to that provided to the public who are not individuals with disabili�es, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency.

(b) Accordingly, any offeror responding to this solicita�on must comply with established HHS EIT accessibility standards. Informa�on about Sec�on 508 is available at htps://www.hhs.gov/web/508. The complete text of the Sec�on 508 Final Provisions can be accessed at htps://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/communica�ons-and-it/about-the-sec�on-508-standards.

(c) The Sec�on 508 accessibility standards applicable to this solicita�on are stated in the clause at 352.239-74, Electronic and Informa�on Technology Accessibility.

In order to facilitate the Government’s determina�on whether proposed EIT supplies meet applicable Sec�on 508 accessibility standards, offerors must submit an HHS

Sec�on 508 Product Assessment Template, in accordance with its comple�on instruc�ons. The purpose of the template is to assist HHS acquisi�on and program officials in determining whether proposed EIT supplies conform to applicable Sec�on 508 accessibility standards. The template allows offerors or developers to self-evaluate their supplies and document—in detail—whether they conform to a specific Sec�on 508 accessibility standard, and any underway remedia�on efforts addressing conformance issues. Instruc�ons for preparing the HHS Sec�on 508 Evalua�on Template are available under Sec�on 508 policy on the HHS website htps://www.hhs.gov/web/508.

In order to facilitate the Government’s determina�on whether proposed EIT services meet applicable Sec�on 508 accessibility standards, offerors must provide enough informa�on to assist the Government in determining that the EIT services conform to Sec�on 508 accessibility standards, including any underway remedia�on efforts addressing conformance issues.

(d) Respondents to this solicita�on must iden�fy any excep�on to Sec�on 508 requirements. If a offeror claims its supplies or services meet applicable Sec�on 508 accessibility standards, and it is later determined by the Government, i.e., a�er award of a contract or order, that supplies or services delivered do not conform to the described accessibility standards, remedia�on of the supplies or services to the level of conformance specified in the contract will be the responsibility of the Contractor at its expense.

(End of provision)

20) HHSAR Clause 352.239-74 Electronic and Informa�on Technology Accessibility (December 18, 2015)

(a) Pursuant to Sec�on 508 of the Rehabilita�on Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d), as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, all electronic and informa�on technology (EIT) supplies and services developed, acquired, or maintained under this contract or order must comply with the “Architectural and Transporta�on Barriers Compliance Board Electronic and Informa�on Technology (EIT) Accessibility Standards” set forth by the Architectural and Transporta�on Barriers Compliance Board (also referred to as the “Access Board”) in 36 CFR part 1194. Informa�on about Sec�on 508 is available at htps://www.hhs.gov/web/508. The complete text of Sec�on 508 Final Provisions can be accessed at htps://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/communica�ons-and-it/about-the-sec�on-508-standards.

(b) The Sec�on 508 accessibility standards applicable to this contract or order are iden�fied in the Statement of Work or Specifica�on or Performance Work Statement.

The contractor must provide any necessary updates to the submited HHS Product Assessment Template(s) at the end of each contract or order exceeding the simplified acquisi�on threshold (see FAR 2.101) when the contract or order dura�on is one year or less. If it is determined by the Government that EIT supplies and services provided by the Contractor do not conform to the described accessibility standards in the contract, remedia�on of the supplies or services to the level of conformance specified in the contract will be the responsibility of the Contractor at its own expense.

(c) The Sec�on 508 accessibility standards applicable to this contract are:

(Contract staff must list applicable standards)

(d) In the event of a modifica�on(s) to this contract or order, which adds new EIT supplies or services or revises the type of, or specifica�ons for, supplies or services, the Contrac�ng Officer may require that the contractor submit a completed HHS Sec�on 508 Product Assessment Template and any other addi�onal informa�on necessary to assist the Government in determining that the EIT supplies or services conform to Sec�on 508 accessibility standards. Instruc�ons for documen�ng accessibility via the HHS Sec�on 508 Product Assessment Template may be found under Sec�on 508 policy on the HHS website: (htps://www.hhs.gov/web/508). If it is determined by the Government that EIT supplies and services provided by the Contractor do not conform to the described accessibility standards in the contract, remedia�on of the supplies or services to the level of conformance specified in the contract will be the responsibility of the Contractor at its own expense.

(e) If this is an Indefinite Delivery contract, a Blanket Purchase Agreement or a Basic Ordering Agreement, the task/delivery order requests that include EIT supplies or services will define the specifica�ons and accessibility standards for the order. In those cases, the Contractor may be required to provide a completed HHS Sec�on 508 Product Assessment Template and any other addi�onal informa�on necessary to assist the Government in determining that the EIT supplies or services conform to Sec�on 508 accessibility standards. Instruc�ons for documen�ng accessibility via the HHS Sec�on 508 Product Assessment Template may be found at htps://www.hhs.gov/web/508. If it is determined by the Government that EIT supplies and services provided by the Contractor do not conform to the described accessibility standards in the provided documenta�on, remedia�on of the supplies or services to the level of conformance specified in the contract will be the responsibility of the Contractor at its own expense.

PART II – SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES OR SERVICES

2.1. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SUPPLIES OR SERVICES

The purpose of the Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course is to prepare students from populations traditionally underrepresented in science, such as the American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN), to be competitive applicants for the NIH Summer Intern Program (SIP). NIH seeks colleges, universities and medical schools uniquely situated near AIAN communities and suited to provide a scholarly scientific curriculum and administer the AIAN SIP Prep Program. The Traditional Knowledge component of course cannot be presented by anyone outside the Native community.

2.2. DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

See Atachment 1 - Statement of Work and Atachment 2 - Supplemental Quota�on Instruc�ons for more details.

PART III – OFFEROR INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

3.1. General

a. Responses to this RFQ will be evaluated to determine the contractor(s) that can best meet the

Government’s needs at the best value. The evalua�on results in assessment of the respondent’s ability to successfully accomplish the requirement. Therefore, the Contractor should read the RFQ carefully before preparing their response. The offer should be prac�cal, clear, and concise; and should comprehensively address the requirements of this RFQ.

b. Assump�ons, condi�ons, or excep�ons with any of the terms and condi�ons of this RFQ must be noted. If not noted, the Government will assume that no assump�ons, condi�ons, or excep�ons are made, and the respondent agrees to comply with all the terms and condi�ons as set forth in the RFQ.

c. Informa�on requested herein must be furnished in wri�ng fully and completely in compliance with the RFQ. The informa�on requested and the manner of submital is essen�al to permit prompt evalua�on of all offers on a fair and uniform basis. Simple statements of compliance (i.e., “understood”; “will comply”) or phrases such as “standard procedures will be used” or “well known techniques will be u�lized” and other generali�es, without the detailed descrip�on of how compliance will be met, may not be considered sufficient evidence that the Quota�on can technically meet the project requirements. Accordingly, any Quota�on in which material informa�on requested is not furnished or where indirect or incomplete answers or informa�on are provided may be considered not acceptable.

d. Respondents may, at their discre�on, submit alternate Quota�ons or Quota�ons that deviate from the RFQ provided that a Quota�on for performance of work, as specified in the SOW, is also submited. The alternate Quota�on may be considered if overall performance would be improved or not be compromised and if it is in the best interest of the Government. Alternate Quota�ons or devia�ons from any requirements of this RFQ must be clearly iden�fied.

e. The quote must be signed by an official authorized to bind the respondent’s organiza�on.

f. The Government may request clarifying informa�on from the respondent as it relates to its

Quota�on.

g. The Government reserves the right to reject any or all offers or any part thereof and to waive any minor informality or irregularity in offers received.

3.2. Evalua�on of Quotes and Award Determina�on

a. The Government will evaluate all responses received using the evalua�on criteria as set forth in Atachment 3 - Technical Evalua�on Criteria. Each response will be evaluated in strict conformity with the evalua�on factors, u�lizing writen cri�ques. The evalua�on will be based upon the demonstrated capabili�es of the prospec�ve contractor(s) in rela�on to the needs of the project as set forth in the RFQ and Statement of Work.

b. The price quoted will also be evaluated. A price reasonable determina�on will be made, and a best value analysis will be performed. The best value analysis will take into considera�on the results of the technical evalua�on and price evalua�on. The Government will award a contract resul�ng from this solicita�on to the responsible offeror whose offer conforming to the solicita�on will be most advantageous to the Government, price and other factors considered.

c. All aspects of the quote are subject to discussion, including price, technical approach and terms and condi�ons. At the comple�on of discussions, the contractor will ensure their technical plan and price quote reflects the mutual understanding of the requirement and if requested, submit a revised technical plan and price quote to the Contrac�ng Officer. The Technical plan should consist of the contractor’s intent and approach to this effort.

d. The Government may request clarifying informa�on from the contractor, as it relates to its quote.

e. If an award(s) will be made without conduc�ng discussions, contractors may be given the opportunity to clarify certain aspects of their quote or to resolve minor or clerical errors.

f. The Government reserves the right to make a single award, mul�ple awards, or no award at all because of this RFQ. In addi�on, the RFQ may be amended or canceled as necessary to meet the Government’s requirements.

g. Offerors should review the atached Supplemental Quota�on Instruc�ons.

3.3. Technical Quota�on Instruc�ons and Format

a. The technical Quota�on is the most important item in the evalua�on of the respondent’s capability to perform the desired services. Therefore, the Quota�on must present sufficient informa�on to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the work requirements and a detailed technical approach for achieving project objec�ves as set forth in the SOW.

b. All aspects of a Quota�on are subject to discussion, including price, technical approach, and terms and condi�ons. At the comple�on of discussions, the contractor must ensure its technical plan and price-cost Quota�on reflect the mutual understandings of the requirement and, if requested, submit a revised technical plan and price-cost Quota�on. The technical plan should consist of the respondent’s intent and approach to the requirements, any considera�ons that should be made by the Government, as well as any addi�onal informa�on that expresses the respondent’s posi�on above compe�tors for this effort.

See Atachment 2 - Supplemental Quota�on Instruc�ons for more details.

3.4. Price Quota�on Instruc�ons

a. A firm-fixed price (FFP) type purchase order is contemplated. The quote should include a fixed price for performance of one 12-month Base Period, one 12-month Op�on Period One (1), and a total inclusive of the base and op�on periods. This is not a cost reimbursable type contract;

therefore, it is not expected that your quote includes es�mated cost elements that is more tradi�onally part of a cost reimbursable requirement.

See Atachment 2 - Supplemental Quota�on Instruc�ons and Atachment 4 - Pricing Table for more details.

3.5. Evalua�on Factors

a. The Government will award none, one or more purchase orders resul�ng from this requirement on the basis of best value, technical factors and price considered. All evalua�on factors other than cost or price, when combined are significantly more important than cost or price.

See Atachment 3 - Technical Evalua�on Criteria for more details.

3.6. NIH Invoice and Payment Instruc�ons

a. See Atachment 6 - NIH Invoice Instruc�ons with IPP for more details.

RFQ #75N95024Q00097

Attachment 1

Version 11-30-2016-1 FAR Part 11—Describing Agency Needs

STATEMENT OF WORK (SERVICES)

(SOW)

GENERAL INFORMATION

Title of Project:

NINDS Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course Program

Statement of Need and Purpose:

The purpose of the Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course is to prepare students from populations traditionally underrepresented in science, such as the American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN), to be competitive applicants for the NIH Summer Intern Program (SIP). NIH seeks colleges, universities and medical schools uniquely situated near AIAN communities and suited to provide a scholarly scientific curriculum and administer the AIAN SIP Prep Program. The Traditional Knowledge component of course cannot be presented by anyone outside the Native community.

Background Information and Objective:

Brief History: The 2023 Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course is a two-year program to prepare students from traditionally underserved populations to be competitive applicants for the NIH Summer Internship Program (SIP). As recent NIH policy dictates that students under 18 years old are no longer eligible for the program unless accompanied by a legal guardian, many students, especially those from underserved areas, are no longer able to make arrangements to attend the program. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is taking this opportunity to approach this very important part of the NIH mission from a different tact. NINDS in collaboration with the NIH Tribal Health Research Office, shall provide a program that shall not only continue to provide an opportunity for underserved students to have a science research experience, but shall prepare theses students so that once able to attend the students shall be competitive with their peers.

Moreover, the mission of the NIH is to develop, maintain, and renew scientific human resources that shall ensure the Nation's capability to prevent disease. Therefore, encouraging enrollment of new trainees in NIH Program would be in line with the mission along with the NIH SIP site’s Diversity and Inclusion information that states the following:

Diversity strengthens our community. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and strongly encourage applications from individuals:

from racial and ethnic groups that have been underrepresented in biomedical research and healthcare fields with disabilities who are/were Pell Grant-eligible in college who are/were enrolled in Tribal Colleges and Universities, community colleges, Hispanic-serving institutions, or Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who identify as LGBTQ+ disadvantaged by life circumstances that have negatively impacted their educational opportunities.

https://www.training.nih.gov/research-training/pb/sip/

The objective of this program is to expose diverse students to basic laboratory procedures, including planning experiments, evaluating data, keeping a laboratory notebook, reading and evaluating journal articles, and understanding basic laboratory techniques. Each program shall also include a medical or clinical component exposing the students to opportunities and research in the medical field as well as a Traditional Knowledge component and internship and college application preparation. The objective of this contract is to provide comprehensive summer training to AIAN students in support and preparation of attending the NIH in the next few years.

This is to include strategic planning and program development to support the Scientific Research Preparatory Summer Course.

Period of Performance:

The anticipated period of performance shall include one 12-month Base Period effective at time of award and one 12-month option period.

The Base Period shall include a seven (7) week summer program provided with the attached schedule and curriculum. The Base Period shall also include a one-day activity to be held during Fall of 2024 for the same students who participated in the summer program.

Option Period One (1) shall include a one-day activity to be held during the Spring of 2025 and an eight

(8) week summer program.

SCOPE OF WORK

General Requirements:

Independently and not as an agent of the Government, the Contractor shall furnish all the necessary services, qualified personnel, material, equipment, and facilities, not otherwise provided by the Government as needed to perform the Statement of Work below:

Specific Requirements:

The Contractor shall conduct a summer internship program. The Base Period summer program shall be based on the NINDS Schedule and Curriculum (SOW – Appendix A). The internship participants shall number between 10-15 rising junior AIAN high school students for an introductory to research session (Base Period summer program) and a one day fall activity that shall build off the summer program for the students. Option Period One (1) shall have a one-day spring of 2025 activity building off the prior summer curriculum and fall activity for the same group of students. The Contractor is expected to develop their own curriculum for the first option period’s summer program which is more advanced and builds off the lessons learned in the Base Period summer program. In Option Period One (1), the Contractor shall utilize best efforts to retain the same group of students who participated in the Base Period. In the event a student who participated in the Base Period summer program elects to not participate in the first option period summer program, the Contractor shall recruit and replace the departing student with a rising senior student capable of meeting the requirements of the more advanced curriculum in the option period summer program. This requirement is specific to AIAN students, therefore any recruitment of students who are not specifically AIAN are subject to approval from the Contracting Officer's Representative

(COR).

The Contractor shall:

Furnish services, qualified personnel, material, equipment, and facilities, not otherwise provided by the Government under the terms of this contract. The Contractor must have demonstrated extensive experience providing program support services, working with underserved populations, specifically AIAN populations, and coordinating programs to increase scientific experience. The Contractor must have evidence of an ongoing relationship with the tribal community for whom they shall provide training.

The Contractor shall recruit 10-15 rising high school junior AIAN students to participate in the Base Period summer program curriculum and fall activity. Students shall be capable of returning for Option Period One (1) spring activity and summer program. The Contractor shall replace any students who participated in the Base Period activities but have subsequently not returned for Option Period One (1) activities with capable rising senior students to participate in the Option Period One (1) summer program. The Government may extend the term of this contract by written notice to the Contractor pursuant to applicable FAR clause 52.217-9 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract (MAR 2000).

The Contractor shall oversee a developing summer science curriculum for underrepresented individuals living on an AIAN reservation or living near the tribal community. The Base Period Summer Schedule and Curriculum is provided by NINDS (SOW – Appendix A). The Contractor shall develop their own Option Period One (1) summer program curriculum.

The Contractor shall develop a one day fall activity in the Base Period building off the student lessons learned in the Base Period summer curriculum. The Contractor shall coordinate with student participants for scheduling that works best to maximize participation for the fall activity.

The Contractor shall develop a one-day spring activity within Option Period One (1) building off the student lessons learned in the Base Period summer curriculum and fall activity. The Contractor shall coordinate with student participants for scheduling that works best to maximize participation for the spring activity.

The Contractor shall develop and oversee an eight (8) week summer science curriculum in Option Period One (1) that is more advanced and builds off the seven (7) week Base Period curriculum and contract activities. The Contractor shall utilize their best efforts to maximize retention of student participation. The goal is the same students who participated in the Base Period shall participate in Option Period One (1) (should the Government elect to exercise Option Period One (1)), In the event that a participating student elects to not participate in the Option Period One (1) summer curriculum, the Contractor shall utilize best efforts in identifying and recruiting a replacement student (a rising senior) capable of meeting the more advanced science curriculum of Option Period One (1).

The Contractor shall:

• Coordinate with local high schools to recruit 10-15 rising junior students capable of participating in the Base Period summer program and fall activity.

o Students who are recruited shall be capable of returning for the first option period’s Spring activity and summer program. If a student participant from the Base Period does not return for the Spring activity and summer program in Option Period One (1), the Contractor shall coordinate with local high schools on a rising senior student capable of meeting the more advanced summer curriculum of Option Period One (1).

• Coordinate with its own or local universities and/or medical schools in its region to provide a laboratory environment to host the summer program.

• Provide personnel to staff the summer program and Fall activities.

• Coordinate local travel for students to the summer program and Fall activities.

• Coordinate with local universities to provide oversight for a Traditional Knowledge activity.

Contractor tasks include the following:

• Find personnel; travel personnel as needed; procure transportation for students in program;

provide for supplies for students to include handouts, name tags, etc.

• Coordinate with universities, colleges, medical schools in the region to locate qualified personnel to coordinate the program.

• Coordinate with local Tribal High Schools in the region to locate qualified personnel to coordinate the program, and to identify the appropriate students.

• Coordinate with identified personnel to define list of supplies, both office and scientific and confirm other curriculum needs.

• Provide certificates for students for closeout ceremony.

LEVEL OF EFFORT:

The Contractor shall furnish services, qualified personnel, materials, equipment, and facilities, not otherwise provided by the Government under the terms of this contract. The Contractor must have extensive experience in providing academic support services to students from underrepresented populations as well as coordinating scientific research projects in the medical field.

The Contractor must oversee the curriculum in its entirety and provide the personnel for all employment needs of the program. A sample curriculum will be provided by NINDS, and coordination with the institution’s science departments and other local universities are highly recommended for access to laboratory and clinical facilities as well as the curriculum development for various scientific topics such as neuroscience and health disparities.

GOVERNMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Review an individual’s credentials before the final selections are made for all levels of the required personnel. No access to government facilities required. The government will not provide any space or equipment to contract personnel.

REPORTING AND DELIVERABLE REQUIREMENTS

Satisfactory performance of the final contract shall be deemed to occur upon performance of the work described in the Statement of Work of this purchase order and upon delivery and acceptance by the Contracting Officer, or the duly authorized representative, of the following items in accordance with the stated delivery schedule:

a. The items specified below will be required to be delivered F.o.b. Destination as set forth in FAR 52.247-35, F.o.b. DESTINATION, WITHIN CONSIGNEES PREMISES (APRIL 1984), and in accordance with and by the date(s) specified below:

Item Description Quantity Delivery Schedule

(1) Monthly Progress Reports

These reports will require descriptive information about the activities undertaken during the reporting period and will require information about planned activities for future reporting periods. Final training materials, schedule, and curriculum shall be delivered for review and approval by the COR prior to the start of the course.

1 electronic copy Within 15 calendar days following the end of each reporting period

(2) Final Report

This report is to include a summation of the work performed and results obtained for the entire contract period of performance. This report shall be in sufficient detail to describe comprehensively the results achieved. A Monthly Report will not be required for the period when the Final Report is due.

a. The Final Report for the Base Period shall include a summary of student’s weekly comments/thoughts on what worked and did not work with the program. Students are to submit their comments to the Contractor weekly. This information/data shall be collected on a weekly basis for quality control. In the event data is to be published prior Tribal and IRB approval is required.

b. The Final Report for Option Period One (1) if exercised shall include a summary of student’s weekly comments/thoughts on what worked and did not work with the program during each

1 electronic copy On or before contract expiration date week of the program. Students are to submit their comments to the Contractor weekly.