Notice of Intent to Sole Source: Grape Genome Sequencing Services (Req 1174046)

NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE

Requisition Number: 1174046
Proposed Contractor: University of Delaware (Delaware Biotechnology Institute)
UEI: T72NHKM259N3

1. Description of Requirement:
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Northeast Area (NEA) Grape Genetics Research Unit, has a requirement for specialized commercial genome sequencing services for unique accessions of wine and table grapes housed within the federal grape repository. These services encompass high molecular weight (HMW) DNA extraction with quality control (QC), PacBio HiFi DNA library preparation with QC and size selection, and PacBio SMRT sequencing utilizing a Sequel II platform (~20 Gb HiFi data delivery). The requirement covers a 12-month base period and two (2) subsequent 12-month option periods, with an total estimated value of $120,219.00 (and an evaluated total ceiling of $140,255.50 inclusive of FAR 52.217-8).

2. Sole Source Rationale:
The Government intends to solicit and award a standalone, Firm-Fixed-Price contract on a sole-source basis to the University of Delaware under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) and FAR 12.102(a). Grapevine samples possess high levels of secondary metabolites, making them highly recalcitrant and exceptionally difficult to extract clean, intact large molecular weight DNA from without severe degradation. The Delaware Biotechnology Institute has uniquely optimized and established specialized workflows designed specifically for these challenging grapevine species. Furthermore, the USDA possesses extensive legacy data generated exclusively by this laboratory using these identical protocols. Utilizing an alternative commercial platform or laboratory would introduce critical experimental variables, invalidate comparative data integrity, and compromise ongoing federal research initiatives.

3. Response Instructions:
This is a notice of intent and not a request for competitive proposals. However, responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation, which shall be considered by the agency. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

All capability statements, technical profiles, or inquiries must be submitted electronically via email to the primary Contracting Point of Contact no later than the response deadline indicated on this notice.