How to bid on a Seed Counting Carousel for USDA-ARS-MWD Ames IA

What the agency is buying

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking quotes for a seed counting carousel. This equipment will be used by The Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project for maize breeding research across Iowa. Specifically, it will count yield trial location entries. The new carousel must be compatible with existing planting equipment.

This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and is a total small business set-aside. Vendors must comply with Buy American requirements, and failure to complete the Buy American Certificate will result in your quote not being considered.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on July 31, 2026. All quotes must be submitted by August 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. This is a firm deadline, and quotes received after this time may not be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for small business concerns. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard (NAICS) Code is 333111, which has a small business size standard of 1,250 employees. Firms that manufacture or supply agricultural machinery and equipment, particularly those with seed handling or counting solutions, would be suitable. Vendors must also be able to meet the Buy American requirements.

How to respond

To access the solicitation, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.

Ensure your quotation includes the completed FAR Provision 52.225-2 Buy American Certificate, as this is mandatory for your quote to be considered.

Tips for a competitive response

Carefully review all specifications to ensure your proposed seed counting carousel is fully compatible with the USDA's current planting equipment. Highlight this compatibility in your response.

Pay close attention to the Buy American requirements. Double-check that you have accurately completed and included the Buy American Certificate with your submission. Missing this certificate will disqualify your quote.

As this is an RFQ, focus on providing a clear, concise quote that directly addresses all requirements and offers a competitive price for the specified equipment.