How to bid on Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and IT Services (CNECTS) for Dept of Defense

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Department of Defense's Space Acquisition and Integration Office is exploring a potential $330 million consolidation of communications, network, engineering, cybersecurity, and information technology services. These services would support Peterson, Schriever, and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force facilities in Colorado Springs, CO. This is a significant opportunity for technology firms.

The agency is seeking interest from both large and small businesses, including those interested in teaming, joint ventures, and prime or subcontractor roles. This consolidation aims to streamline various existing communications contracts.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The final deadline for submitting the teaming questionnaire was August 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM MST. The final partner spreadsheet was released by 2:00 PM MST on the same day. No further submissions for the questionnaire are being accepted.

The overall solicitation deadline is December 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. This is the date by which formal proposals or responses to the main solicitation will be due.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for technology firms specializing in communications, network engineering, cybersecurity, and general information technology services. Businesses with experience supporting Department of Defense or other government facilities, particularly in secure or sensitive environments, would be well-suited.

The agency explicitly encourages participation from both large and small businesses, indicating a desire for diverse partnerships. Firms interested in forming joint ventures or acting as subcontractors should review the released teaming matrix to identify potential partners.

How to respond

To access the opportunity details and any released documents, 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 some documents, though this is not always required.

The deadline for submitting teaming questionnaires has passed. However, the agency has released a Teaming and Partnering Matrix spreadsheet. This spreadsheet lists interested vendors, their business size, socioeconomic status, core capabilities, and contact information. Industry partners are encouraged to use this resource to identify and contact potential business partners directly.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Thoroughly review all available documents, including any industry day slides or transcripts, to understand the agency's specific needs and priorities for this consolidation. Pay close attention to the scope of services required across the Peterson, Schriever, and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force facilities.

If you are considering a teaming arrangement, ensure your proposed partnership clearly demonstrates a comprehensive capability to meet all aspects of the requirement. Highlight how your combined strengths address the agency's goals for consolidating these services. Clearly define roles and responsibilities within your team.

For a large, consolidated effort like this, emphasize your firm's experience with similar complex projects, especially those involving multiple locations or critical infrastructure. Detail your approach to cybersecurity and network management, as these are key components of the solicitation.