9280-26-R-RFIN-00006

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has issued a Notice of Proposed Sole Source Purchase (RFx: 3150006462) for an Echo Respirometer upgrade, specifically seeking to procure specialized equipment from Green Science Solutions. This procurement is uniquely positioned as a sole source acquisition, with the vendor identified as the exclusive United States partner for Echo's respirometer components. The procurement aims to upgrade existing scientific equipment to enhance the university's research capabilities, with specific objectives including increased client sample processing capacity and reduced lead time for research operations. The solicitation was advertised on August 18, 2025, and August 25, 2025, with a formal deadline for comments and objections set for September 4, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Central Time. Potential respondents or alternative providers are required to submit written notices directly to Jacob Cochran, Director of Procurement & Contracts, detailing their ability to provide comparable equipment or services.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, though the sole source nature significantly limits potential competition. Green Science Solutions is positioned as the sole authorized provider, with the university maintaining the option to convert to a competitive bid if an alternative provider is identified during the review period. If no viable alternatives emerge, USM will seek approval from the Public Procurement Review Board, bearing the responsibility of demonstrating that the commodity is available from only one source. The procurement process includes a mechanism for potential withdrawal and conversion to a competitive solicitation. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the upgrade is characterized as a cost-reduction strategy that eliminates international travel for technical support and enhances research infrastructure. The procurement is focused on a highly specialized scientific instrument upgrade, targeting improvements in research sample processing capabilities.