9280-26-R-RFQI-00004

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is pursuing a sole source procurement for specialized fish tracking transponders and receivers from InnovaSea, with a procurement identification number of 9280-26-R-RFQI-00004. The procurement seeks advanced telemetry devices with unique technological capabilities, including backward and forward compatibility with existing marine research infrastructure, superior data precision, and comprehensive cloud-based storage options. USM has determined that InnovaSea is the only vendor capable of providing technology that seamlessly integrates with their current tracking systems and those of their Gulf region collaborators. The notice of proposed sole source purchase was posted on July 31, 2025, with a deadline for comments and objections set for August 19, 2025, at 8:00 AM Central Time. Potential objectors are invited to submit written notices to Jacob Cochran, Director of Procurement & Contracts, explaining why the procurement should not be a sole source. If no viable alternative sources are identified, USM will proceed with an appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board to validate the sole source determination.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. InnovaSea is positioned as the sole potential vendor, with no mention of alternative suppliers or incumbent contractors. The university has conducted extensive market research and determined that no other company offers comparable technological capabilities for fish tracking and data management. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the documentation suggests that InnovaSea has maintained stable pricing for over a decade and provides additional value through workshops, training, and customer service. The procurement is specifically for marine research equipment, targeting scientific institutions and research organizations working in marine ecosystem tracking and monitoring. Contact information for potential inquiries or objections includes the email bids@usm.edu and phone number 601-266-4131, providing multiple channels for interested parties to engage with the procurement process.