Nucleic Acid Platform

The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has issued a Request for Qualifications and Quotes (RFQQ K6624) for an automated nucleic acid extraction platform on behalf of the Lake Ketchum CDP. The procurement seeks a single vendor to supply and install a compact automated system capable of purifying DNA and RNA for real-time PCR and next-generation sequencing applications, with processing capacity for 1 to 48 samples per run. The system must incorporate magnetic particle-based extraction technology, integrated barcode reader functionality, automated sample tracking, liquid handling system compatibility, and built-in safeguards including camera-based verification and visual indicators. Deliverables include equipment delivery and installation by June 29, 2026, with the contract period beginning June 1, 2026, and concluding December 30, 2026. Minimum bidder qualifications include current Washington State Statewide Vendor status or willingness to obtain it within 30 days of award, a minimum of ten years' experience in laboratory instrument manufacturing or services, and at least three non-bidder-owned customer references demonstrating similar services within the preceding thirty-six months. Evaluation criteria include mandatory compliance with system requirements (100 points), cost factor (25 points), small or veteran-owned business status (10 points), Executive Order 18-03 compliance (5 points), and equipment delivery verification (pass/fail). Questions must be submitted by May 11, 2026, with bids due May 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time, apparent successful bidders announced May 15, 2026, and contract awards announced by May 18, 2026.

No set-asides are specified for disadvantaged enterprises; however, the procurement provides 10 points for Washington Small Businesses or Certified Veteran-Owned Businesses, and reserved awards are available for these classifications that do not receive the main contract award. The solicitation does not identify any incumbent vendors or existing contractors that require integration. Bidders must submit a single total price with no additional costs beyond the quoted amount, and all pricing information must be provided through a structured pricing exhibit that includes the primary equipment unit price along with optional ancillary items such as warranty coverage, training services, shipping, and maintenance and service agreements. The anticipated contract value is less than $100,000 based on historical purchasing data, with a fixed budget of $50,000 (excluding sales tax and tariffs) provided as a fixed-price, deliverable-based purchase order contract; Washington State sales tax at 10 percent will be applied to the final award. All bids are subject to public disclosure under Washington's Public Records Act, and the resulting contract will not anticipate contractor involvement beyond June 30, 2026.