IFB #24-0101a Sanger Sequencing

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 24-0101a) for Sanger Sequencing services through its Plant Pest Diagnostics Branch. The procurement seeks a California-based contractor to perform DNA sequencing on extracted DNA samples to accurately identify plant pests and pathogens. Specific service requirements include DNA sample pickup, sequencing with 99% accuracy for sequences up to 700 bases, and result delivery within 24 hours. The contract will cover DNA sequencing services where one sequencing reaction involves one DNA template and one primer, with an anticipated annual workload between 10,000 to 25,000 reads. The IFB was released on November 21, 2024, with emailed bids due by December 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM PT. The contract term is set for January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2027, with no renewal options. Evaluation will be based on a tiered pricing structure across three read volume categories (1-47 reads, 48-93 reads, and 94-469 reads), with the total read costs serving as the basis for bid comparison.

The solicitation includes specific provisions for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation, though DVBE requirements have been waived for this contract. DVBE incentives still apply, with percentage benefits ranging from 3-5% based on participation levels, and small businesses can receive a 5% preference if certified. Contractors must maintain specific insurance coverages, including $1M commercial general liability per occurrence, $2M aggregate liability, $1M automobile liability, and workers' compensation coverage. While no specific total contract value is mentioned, bidders are responsible for all costs related to licensing, permits, insurance, and other requirements outlined in the IFB. The contractor must be located in California and provide comprehensive services including all necessary labor, materials, equipment, and supplies to perform the DNA sequencing work. The pricing structure requires detailed per-read costs across different volume tiers, with any blank or zero-dollar entries potentially resulting in bid rejection.