Intent to Sole Source (1).pdf

Synopsis: Notice of Intent to Award a Sole-Source Contract

Announcement Number: 1333MG-25-Q-0013

Project Title: Preventative Maintenance Services on one axiVEND M2-iTWO-300P Protein Spotter – Aspirate/Dispense Platform

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Business Support Branch intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, under the statutory authority of FAR 13.106- 1(b)(1)(i), with AxiVend LLC to provide Preventative Maintenance Services on one axiVEND M2-iTWO-300P Protein Spotter – Aspirate/Dispense Platform at the NOAA Hollings Marine Laboratory in Charleston SC. The North American Industry Classification Code (NAICS) for this acquisition is 811210, Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance, with a business size standard of $34.0M.

Sole Source Justification The function of the axiVEND M2 iTWO-300P Protein Spotter-Aspirate/Dispense Platform currently owned/operated by NOAA/NCCOS scientists for mission essential work is to aspirate and dispense specialized ‘inks’ used for printing custom-designed membrane-based arrays employed to detect algal toxins. Annual preventative maintenance service is an absolute requirement for replacing worn components and recalibrating/realigning the system in order to keep the Instrument performing according to specifications. Certain components included in the Part Number axi-940 identified above are specific for ensuring full and complete integration and operability with the Instrument in terms of compatibility, connectivity/interfacing, highly specialized form, fit, and function, and overall coordination with the system. As part of the PM service: major motion systems are checked for square, tested for reproducibility of position and verified as level;

dispensing component is checked for accuracy, consistency of dispense volume; and, other routine maintenance tasks are completed as outlined in the manufacturer’s service and test manuals. The same technical requirements apply to the two on-site emergency visits per year under the Full-Service Support Plan, whereby any failed component(s) would be need to be replaced to complete repairs to the Instrument. axiVEND does not have any authorized resellers and therefore, it is deemed that no company other than axiVEND is capable of providing the compatible parts, service, and system performance specification checks supplied by the OEM.

Special Notice

This special notice is not a solicitation for competitive quotes, nor will one be posted on Contract Opportunities. However, if an interested party believes that it is capable of meeting the requirements and be in compliance with the above justification, they may submit substantiating documentation in writing within the open period of this notice. Responses can be sent via e-mail to scott.beliveau@noaa.gov. Documentation will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to conduct a competitive procurement, based upon response to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.

All responsible sources may submit a Capability Statement in accordance with the solicitation, which shall be considered by the agency if received on or before 11:00 AM EDT on January 20, 2025. The Capability Statement must contain material in sufficient detail to allow NOAA to determine if the party can meet all of the requirements.

All electronic correspondence shall have the subject line read:

Announcement Number: 1333MG-25-Q-0013

Project Title: Preventative Maintenance Services on one axiVEND M2-iTWO-300P Protein Spotter – Aspirate/Dispense Platform

It is the Offeror’s responsibility to ensure that any submission transmitted to the specified Government representative(s) is received prior to the due date specified herein.

All contractors doing business with this office must be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM). No award can be made to a company not registered in SAM. For additional information and to register in SAM, please access the following web site: www.sam.gov.

The notice will remain open from 1/06/2025 to 1/20/2025.

mailto:scott.beliveau@noaa.gov