RFQ 25-071 STARlet instruments and accessories

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) in Contra Costa County is conducting a Request for Quotation (RFQ 25-071) for the procurement of two STARlet laboratory automation instruments and associated accessories. The solicitation seeks high-precision liquid handling systems with specific requirements including autoload barcode scanning capabilities, modular arms, channel pairs, control systems, and VENUS 6.0 software. Deliverables include full equipment delivery to 1001 West Cutting Boulevard in Richmond, California, with a comprehensive package involving unpacking, debris removal, volume verification of pipetting devices, installation services, method programming, and operator training by a factory-authorized application specialist. The procurement timeline is rigorous, with bidder questions due by November 12, 2025, responses required by November 20, 2025 at 4:00 PM PT, and a planned contract award on December 4, 2025. Evaluation criteria will primarily focus on pricing, with the contract term running from December 1, 2025 through November 30, 2026, and all equipment mandated to be new, in current production, and meeting stringent specifications.

The solicitation includes multiple set-aside and certification opportunities for disadvantaged businesses, specifically targeting Small Business (SB), Microbusiness (MB), and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participants. Bidders must complete several mandatory compliance forms, including the Commercially Useful Function (CUF) Vendor Compliance Form, DVBE Declaration, and California Civil Rights Laws Certification. Contractors must demonstrate compliance with state civil rights laws and provide documentation verifying their business classification. While the exact budget is not explicitly stated, the cost worksheet indicates approximately $39,500 in appropriated funds across multiple fiscal years. Potential contractors must be factory-trained, authorized personnel located within the United States, and capable of providing comprehensive service including travel, lodging, and all associated implementation costs. The state reserves the right to modify or cancel the RFQ and will evaluate responses based on lowest cost to the state while ensuring responsiveness and responsibility of the bidder.