Intent to Award a Single Source Contract

The Department of the Air Force Space Command has published a Special Notice announcing its intent to award a single source contract for cybersecurity training courses to SANS (The Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies Inc). The notice is for a requirement involving multi-day cybersecurity training courses delivered by experienced instructors, featuring management tools to track student progress and regularly updated curriculum content. The contract opportunity is valued at an estimated $33,648 and is classified under NAICS code 611420 (Computer Training) and PSC category U012 (Education/Training- Information Technology/Telecommunications Training). The agency has determined that SANS is the sole source provider for this specific training requirement. The notice was posted on August 20, 2025, with responses due by September 25, 2025.

The procurement is being conducted as a single source award because SANS maintains exclusive rights to produce and deliver SANS Security 504 training courses and GIAC certification exams, with copyrighted courseware that is updated multiple times per year. The specific requirement includes 4 SANS Security 504 classes and 4 GIAC test bundles for the 3rd Training and Education Services (3 TES) organization. The contracting officer has justified the single source approach based on SANS's unique capabilities and proprietary training materials that cannot be obtained from other providers. While no other small businesses were deemed viable for this particular contract, the justification document suggests exploring competitive alternatives for future similar requirements. Contractors interested in this opportunity should review the attached Single Source Justification document and respond by the September 25, 2025 deadline, though the agency has already indicated its intent to award to SANS based on their exclusive market position.