Bid guide
How to bid on Human Capital Commercial Solutions Opening for 338 ESS, DEPT of Defense
What the Air Force is buying
The Department of Defense, specifically the 338th Enterprise Sourcing Squadron (338 ESS) at Joint Base San Antonio, is seeking innovative commercial solutions for Human Capital (HC) services. These services include training, education, and human resources support for the Air Education and Training Command (AETC). This is an ongoing Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), meaning specific needs will be announced as 'Areas of Interest' (AOIs) over time. Vendors should monitor for new AOIs.
The government is looking for strategic sourcing solutions. While a previous Area of Interest (AOI 0001) for an AI-enabled marketing and communications system is now closed, future AOIs will be posted. This opportunity is relevant for businesses that provide a range of human capital services.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Commercial Solutions Opening was published on July 29, 2026, and remains open until June 12, 2030, at 1:00 PM ET. This is the overall deadline for the CSO itself. However, individual Areas of Interest (AOIs) will have their own specific submission deadlines. Vendors must pay close attention to the deadlines for each AOI as they are released.
For each AOI, vendors will be required to submit White Papers by the specified deadline. The previous AOI 0001 had a White Paper submission deadline of November 3, 2025, at 11:00 AM CST, and submissions were sent via email. Future AOIs will outline their own submission instructions and deadlines.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in various human capital services. Anticipated NAICS codes include Flight Training (611512), Professional and Management Development Training (611430), Other Technical and Trade Schools (611519), Educational Support Services (611710), Computer Training (611420), Language Schools (611630), and Administration Management and General Consulting Services (541611). Other relevant NAICS codes may be considered for specific AOIs.
Businesses involved in advertising, media purchasing, film/video production, engineering services, and research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences may also find relevant opportunities under specific AOIs, depending on the nature of the human capital solution sought.
How to respond
To respond to this opportunity, you must monitor the official government portal for new Areas of Interest (AOIs). Each AOI will detail its specific requirements and submission process. The previous AOI 0001 required White Paper submissions via email to the listed Contracting Officers and a specific Air Force email address, with a separate email to confirm receipt.
You will need to access the opportunity on the portal. Click the 'View original source' link. If you land on the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When preparing your response, focus on clearly demonstrating how your commercial solution is innovative and directly addresses the specific needs outlined in each Area of Interest. Since this is a Commercial Solutions Opening, the government is looking for novel approaches.
Pay close attention to the formatting and content requirements for White Papers specified in the attachments for each AOI. Ensure your submission is concise, well-organized, and highlights the unique value proposition of your services. Confirm receipt of your submission if instructed, as this ensures your proposal is officially logged. Regularly monitor the government portal for amendments or new AOIs to stay informed.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.