12905B25S1143390 - Sources Sought for Lettuce Targeted Metabolomics USDA ARS PWA Salinas CA

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Pacific West Area, has issued a Special Notice for a potential contract opportunity involving lettuce targeted metabolomics analysis. The notice is specifically focused on a single-source procurement to be awarded to Bridging Pieces, a contractor previously engaged in similar analytical work. This opportunity is classified under NAICS Code 541714 for Research and Development in Biotechnology and will utilize a Firm Fixed Price purchase order. The procurement will be processed using FAR Part 12 and Part 13 procedures, which govern acquisition of commercial items and simplified acquisition methods. The anticipated period of performance is estimated at 60 days following award issuance.

Potential contractors are invited to submit written substantiating documentation within seven calendar days of the notice's publication, with the understanding that this is an informational notice and not a formal solicitation. The primary objective is to analyze 1,100 lettuce samples for at least 100 phytohormones, with a focus on maintaining analytical consistency with previous research. Only small businesses are eligible to participate, and oral communications will not be accepted in response to the notice. The government retains sole discretion in determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement based on received responses. Contractors should note that no telephone calls will be accepted, and all submissions must be in writing. The justification for single-source selection is primarily based on the contractor's previous successful performance and the ability to utilize remaining tissue samples from prior analyses, which would significantly reduce cultivation and preparation expenses.