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

What the Space Force is buying

The Space Force is planning one consolidated contract for Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS). This contract will cover Peterson, Schriever, and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Stations in Colorado.

This is a significant opportunity for small businesses in the technology sector, as the future solicitation is planned as a 100% small-business set-aside.

Key dates and deadlines

The request window for Small Business One-on-One meetings closed on August 5, 2026, at 9:30 AM MDT. If you submitted a request before this cutoff, your meeting will be scheduled for the week of August 24, 2026.

A Pre-Release Virtual Industry Day is scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This event is open to all interested industry partners and will provide updates on the CNECTS requirement, including a walk-through of the draft Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) and Area of Interest (AOI) documents.

The overall deadline for this solicitation is December 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses specializing in communications, networking, engineering, cybersecurity, and information technology services. The Space Force is exploring a consolidated contract, indicating a need for firms with broad capabilities in these areas.

The acquisition strategy is planned as a 100% small-business set-aside, making it ideal for eligible small businesses in the technology category.

How to respond

To access the opportunity details, click the “View original source” link. 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 on the portal to view all documents, though some bids allow document viewing without an account. No registration is required for general attendance at the Virtual Industry Day on August 19, 2026; formal MS Teams dial-in links and draft CSO/AOI materials will be posted on the portal in the coming weeks.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Attend the Virtual Industry Day on August 19, 2026, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the forthcoming Commercial Solutions Offering (CSO) and Area of Interest (AOI). This will provide critical insights into the Space Force's requirements.

While CMMC Phase II requirements are suspended, remember that CMMC Phase I self-assessment requirements remain active. All defense contractors must comply with DFARS 252.204-7012, which mandates the implementation of NIST SP 800-171 security controls to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Ensure your cybersecurity posture meets these standards.

Given the consolidation of services, highlight your firm's ability to provide integrated solutions across communications, networking, engineering, cybersecurity, and IT. Demonstrate how your capabilities can streamline operations and provide comprehensive support to the Space Force.