How to bid on Translation and Interpreting Service BPAs for Dept of the Navy

What the agency is buying

The Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD) in Maryland is looking to establish Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) for translation and interpreting services. This includes a specific need for American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services. These BPAs will allow the agency to make purchases for individual requirements that do not exceed the Simplified Acquisition Threshold.

This is a small business set-aside opportunity. Vendors who are found to have technical and past performance merit will be issued a Master BPA, enabling them to bid on future specific requirements.

Key dates and deadlines

The government intends to issue Master BPAs on a 6-month rotation. To be considered for a June award, you must submit your documentation and references by April 30th. For a December award, submissions are due by October 31st. The overall solicitation period extends until November 11, 2028, at 12:01 AM ET.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for small businesses that provide translation and interpreting services. Firms with capabilities in American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting are particularly encouraged. The relevant NAICS code is 541930, for Translation and Interpreting Services. If your company holds a GSA contract, you should note your GSA contract number in your response.

How to respond

To respond, you need to email your documentation and references to [email protected]. Your submission must include a cover sheet with your official company name, CAGE code, and point of contact details (name, phone, email).

You must also provide documentation addressing your capabilities and expertise, specifically mentioning your ability to provide American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services. If applicable, include a complete price list. You are required to provide a minimum of three past performance references using the attached sheet, detailing the business/organization name, address, contract/order number, award amount, point of contact, telephone number, and a description of the service provided. Ensure you have an active account in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) for invoicing.

Tips for a competitive response

Focus on clearly demonstrating your past performance. The agency will evaluate references based on customer satisfaction, timeliness, technical success, program management, and quality. Provide detailed and verifiable information for each reference. The government reserves the right to use additional references, so ensure your public records are strong.

Highlight your specific capabilities, especially regarding American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting, as this was explicitly mentioned. Organize your submission clearly with all required information on the cover sheet and ensure all attachments, like the past performance reference sheet, are complete. Providing a price list or catalog prices can be helpful for direct awards under the $10,000 threshold.