How to bid on Account Management, Planning, and Maintenance for Online Crowd-Sourced Surveys and Cognitive Tasks for Individuals for the National Institute of Mental Health

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is conducting market research for small businesses capable of managing online research accounts and collecting responses for surveys and cognitive tasks. This work involves gathering data from at least 2,720 respondents across four specific mental health categories, plus an additional 1,500 English-speaking adults. Participants will be compensated $20 each.

This is an opportunity for businesses specializing in online survey platforms, participant recruitment, and data collection, particularly those with experience in health-related research. While this is not a direct request for bids, responding to this Request for Information (RFI) can help NIMH understand the market and potentially shape future solicitations.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on September 01, 2026. Responses are due by September 16, 2026, at 9:00 AM ET. This is a Sources Sought notice, meaning it is for information gathering only and not a solicitation for proposals or quotes. No award will be made as a direct result of this notice, and the government will not cover any costs incurred by respondents.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses under NAICS code 541990, 'All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services,' with a size standard of $19.5 million. Firms should have expertise in managing online crowd-sourced research, providing participant panels, and handling participant reimbursement. Experience with collecting data for mental health surveys and cognitive tasks, including those requiring specific computer operating systems (Windows 10 or MacOS), is relevant.

The RFI specifically asks for information regarding various small business classifications, including HUBZone, service-disabled veteran-owned, 8(a), veteran-owned, woman-owned, and small disadvantaged businesses.

How to respond

To access the original source and respond, you will need to click the 'View original source' link 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 documents, though this is not always required.

Your response should include documentation of your company's capabilities to meet the requirements, your small business status (including any specific classifications), your size classification relative to NAICS code 541990, and confirmation of domestic sources if applicable for equipment/supply requirements. Include required registration and contact details.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even though this is an RFI, a well-crafted response can position your company favorably for future solicitations. Clearly articulate your firm's experience with online survey platforms, participant recruitment, and data management for research studies. Highlight any specific capabilities related to mental health research or cognitive task administration.

Ensure your response explicitly addresses all information requested in the Sources Sought notice, including your small business status and NAICS code. Provide concrete examples of past projects that demonstrate your ability to manage large-scale data collection, handle participant compensation, and meet specific demographic or technical requirements. Pay close attention to the requested participant numbers and compensation details, showing you understand the scope.