Facial Recognition Software Licenses

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), under the Department of Homeland Security, published this Special Notice on February 10, 2026, regarding the procurement of Facial Recognition Software Licenses. CBP intends to negotiate a sole source award with Clearview AI, Inc. for fifteen software licenses to support the U.S. Border Patrol Headquarters Intelligence Division's National Targeting Center. This procurement is being conducted under FAR 6.302-1, citing only one responsible source, which justifies the sole source approach. The NAICS code 541519 applies, with a small business size standard of $34 million. The total contract value is $225,000 for the one-year base period. Interested parties who believe they can meet the requirements may submit capability information to contest the sole source determination.

The primary objective of this procurement is to provide CBP agents and analysts with facial recognition technology capabilities that leverage a database of over 60 billion publicly available images to enhance tactical targeting, analysis, vetting, and counter-network operations for national security purposes. Interested contractors must submit information demonstrating their capabilities to the designated email address (amoz.j.samuel@cbp.dhs.gov) no later than 2:00 PM ET on February 17, 2026, which is the only deadline for participation. Only contractors capable of meeting extensive security and compliance requirements, including DHS 4300A Policy Directive compliance, Authority to Operate certification, encryption standards (FIPS 197 AES 256 and NSA Type 2), and PIV credential enablement, are eligible to participate. The contract requires contractors to deliver licenses within 30 days of award, provide ongoing technical support and monthly license management reporting, and maintain strict security protocols including incident reporting within one hour of discovery. Contractors must also ensure all personnel with access to sensitive information complete required security training, execute non-disclosure agreements, and comply with DHS Rules of Behavior.