Cost Estimating Modeling Data Analytics and Research (CEMDAR) RFI

The Department of the Air Force Headquarters is seeking research and development services to develop the Cost Estimating Modeling Data Analytics and Research (CEMDAR) system, which will strengthen Air Force and Space Force cost estimating capabilities through data analytics, cloud-based platforms, and integrated databases. The Air Force Cost Analysis Agency (AFCAA) has identified critical gaps in its current cost estimating databases, methods, and tools and aims to improve data quality, build enterprise relational databases using data science best practices, develop predictive cost and schedule estimating relationships, and provide centralized datasets and analytical tools for cost analysts. Key contract requirements include maintaining a minimum 85 percent staffing level with vacancies filled within 14 days, ensuring all personnel hold minimum SECRET security clearances, achieving 95 percent on-time delivery of all required products, and reporting labor hours through the Cost and Software Data Reporting system. The contract will be structured across eight task areas encompassing data pipeline development, data-driven analysis and model deployment, contracts database updates, and cost reporting support, with required deliverables including status reports, datasets, databases, source code, documentation, and training materials. The Request for Information (RFI) closing date is February 17, 2026, and interested vendors are invited to submit capability statements (maximum two pages) and detailed feedback on the draft Performance Work Statement using the provided Comment Resolution Matrix.

This is an RFI with no set-aside designation, and the government has not disclosed specific award values or budget ranges in the pre-solicitation notice. No incumbent contractors or current contract holders are identified in the available documentation. The contract timeline and service duration are not specified in the RFI materials provided, though the Performance Work Statement indicates multiple task phases including enabling tasks, four core tasks, and two optional surge support tasks. The required personnel include a Program Manager, Chief Cost Data Scientist, Expert Cost Estimators and Analysts, Senior Data Scientists, and specialized subject matter matter experts across various domains related to cost analysis and data science. The government is actively seeking vendor input and recommendations on the proposed Performance Work Statement, contract type, structure, and vehicle options before issuing the formal solicitation, making this RFI phase critical for interested contractors to shape the eventual requirements and contracting approach.