RFI CT2395-26.Filters.RawMaterial.pdf

U. S. Department of Justice

UNICOR

Federal Prison Industries, Inc.

SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE and

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

FPI-RFI-CT2395-26 September 1, 2026

Title: Sources Sought Notice and Request for Information for Comprehensive Outline for Supplier Sourcing and Specification

BACKGROUND:

Federal Prison Industries, Inc., (“UNICOR”), is a wholly owned, self-sustaining Government corporation established by Executive Order 6917 in 1934 to provide meaningful work experience and vocational training for federal inmates. Operating within the Department of Justice, UNICOR offers a diverse portfolio of high-quality products and services—ranging from office furniture and apparel to electronics manufacturing and administrative services—primarily to federal agencies. As a mandatory source of supply for federal procurement under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 8.3, UNICOR utilizes this market research to identify qualified commercial partners and evaluate industry capabilities to support its manufacturing and service operations.

UNICOR, manufactures and supplies a variety of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) filters for distribution to federal agencies nationwide.

The purpose of this Sources Sought Notice (Notice) and Request for Information (RFI) is to obtain market research from qualified filter manufacturers to source HVAC filter manufacturing materials. The information will establish a foundation for government requirements, clarify expectations, and guide the development of a formal solicitation for filter materials. The responses will also assist UNICOR staff in developing an acquisition plan and exploring opportunities to expand product offerings within U.S. federal agencies.

This Notice and RFI are issued solely for market research and planning purposes. It does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Quotation (RFQ), or a commitment to award a contract. This RFI is being issued to identify qualified firms interested and capable of providing HVAC filter manufacturing materials for our product line within U.S. federal agencies.

SCOPE:

UNICOR seeks to establish a contract with a qualified awardee that would consist of a 1-year base period and four additional option years, if exercised. Respondents must specify required materials, outline respondent information, detail pricing expectations, include product sample clauses, define quality requirements, and address quantity needs.

INTERESTED FIRMS SHOULD PROVIDE INFORMATION ADDRESSING THE

FOLLOWING TO ASSIST UNICOR IN EVALUATING MARKET CAPABILITY AND

PLANNING FUTURE PROCUREMENT ACTIONS:

CONTRACTOR NAME:____________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION:________________________________

1. Company Information

Companies must provide the following detailed information.

• Company name, contact details, and relevant certifications.

• Manufacturing capabilities, production lead times, and supply chain details.

• References from prior contracts or similar projects.

2. Materials of Interest

• List each material required for HVAC filter production (e.g., filter media, frames, adhesives, gaskets).

• Provide brief descriptions of material specifications, grades, and any performance characteristics.

• Note any substitutes or alternatives that may be acceptable.

4. Pricing Details

• Request unit pricing for each material and volume-based discounts.

• Specify requirements for freight terms, delivery timelines, and payment conditions.

• Include a clause for price validity period and adjustment mechanisms.

6. Quality Requirements

• Define minimum quality standards and relevant industry certifications (e.g., ISO, UL).

• Describe material suitability for intended applications, referencing applicable standards.

• Outline procedures for quality assurance and ongoing compliance monitoring.

• Provide applicable certifications/listing numbers, testing laboratories, applicable UL standard(s), scope of certification and any limitations or conditions associated with the certification. If UL certification is not available for the proposed material product, respondent shall identify any equivalent applicable certification or testing standard.

7. Quantity Requirements

• Discuss whether to specify individual quantities needed for each material in the document.

• Provide guidance on referencing consignment amounts from current contracts if applicable, including how these should be disclosed or requested from suppliers. In addition, specify the option for consignment inventory to be maintained on site at government locations, allowing for real-time access to products and facilitating efficient operations. Respondents should detail their ability to support onsite consignment arrangements, including inventory management and replenishment procedures.

• Clarify expectations regarding order flexibility and potential for future volume increases.

PROPOSALS OFFERING COST SAVINGS WITHOUT AFFECTING THE QUALITY

AND PERFORMANCE ARE WELCOMED.

RESPONSE DEADLINE: FOR PLANNING PURPOSES AND TO ENSURE BEING

INCLUDED IN OUR MARKET RESEARCH FOR THIS SERVICE, RESPONSES MUST

BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 2:00 PM (EST) ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21,

2026.

RESPONSES SHALL BE SENT VIA EMAIL ONLY TO RENEE STANCIL AT

Renee.Stancil@usdoj.gov mailto:Renee.Stancil@usdoj.gov