Autonomous Robotic Weeder

The Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is seeking an autonomous robotic weeder for Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The procurement is anticipated to be a firm fixed-price contract under NAICS code 333111 for agricultural technology applications. The robotic weeder must be a compact, electric, fully autonomous agricultural robot with specific technical requirements including dual 100 AH lithium batteries, GNSS RTK antenna, remote control capabilities, 4-wheel drive, and advanced navigation systems with 2 cm precision. Vendors must demonstrate compliance with detailed technical specifications and provide comprehensive support services including GNSS RTK correction subscription, mapping service, mobile connectivity, and software updates. Electronic responses are due by Tuesday, 29 April 2025 at 2:00 p.m. CDT, with interested companies required to submit company details, capabilities statements, and specification compliance documentation.

While no specific set-aside has been definitively applied, the solicitation indicates potential set-asides for Indian Economic Enterprises (IEE) and Indian Small Business Economic Enterprises (ISBEE). The procurement includes not only the robotic weeder hardware but also requires two-day technical training for SIPI staff. The small business size standard for this contract is set at 1,250 employees, which provides flexibility for mid-sized manufacturers. Technical requirements are rigorous, including multiple weeding tool attachments like spring tine harrow and brush systems, and advanced technological features such as camera and laser navigation. Although no specific award value is mentioned, the complexity of the robotic system and associated services suggests a significant investment in agricultural technology education infrastructure for the institution.