9250-27-R-RFIN-00004

Mississippi State University is announcing its sole-source intent to purchase a tufting (stitching) head for an Inteva stitching cell, with objections due August 6, 2026. MSU has determined that Inteva Products is the sole capable source because Inteva designed the original stitching cell for the university and possesses the proprietary control-system integration required for any future stitching heads. Inteva is identified as the only manufacturer willing to develop the novel tufting head technology required for stitching applications involving thick or highly curved structures.

The estimated total cost is $387,111 based on Inteva Products' attached quote. MSU conducted efforts to identify alternative sources but was unable to locate other manufacturers willing to develop the required stitching head. The university is replacing an obsolete stitching cell that no longer receives maintenance or service support.

Any party objecting to the sole-source designation must submit written notice to Jennifer Mayfield, CPPO Director of Procurement & Contracts, by August 6, 2026. If objections with supporting documentation are deemed valid by MSU, the procurement will be withdrawn and submitted to competitive bidding. If MSU determines the sole-source claim is justified, the matter will be appealed to the Public Procurement Review Board, with MSU bearing the burden of proof that only one source exists for the commodity.