Bid guide
How to bid on Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and IT Services (CNECTS) for the Dept of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Department of Defense's Space Acquisition and Integration Office is looking for a wide range of communications, networking, engineering, cybersecurity, and information technology services. This requirement, known as CNECTS, will support Peterson, Schriever, and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force installations in Colorado.
This is a significant opportunity, with an estimated value of $330 million. The government is actively encouraging both large and small businesses to form teams, joint ventures, or prime-subcontractor relationships to pursue this contract.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The deadline for new vendors to submit the teaming questionnaire is Friday, August 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM MST. No submissions will be accepted after this time. If your company previously submitted a questionnaire and is already on the current matrix, no further action is required.
An updated CNECTS Teaming and Partnering Matrix spreadsheet will be released and available for public access on SAM.gov no later than 2:00 PM MST on Friday, August 28, 2026. This matrix will help interested parties identify potential business partners.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for technology firms specializing in communications, network engineering, cybersecurity, and information technology services. Given the large scope and value, it is particularly well-suited for businesses capable of handling complex, multi-faceted projects within a defense context.
The government's emphasis on teaming, joint ventures, and prime-subcontractor relationships means this is also a good fit for small businesses looking to partner with larger firms, or for larger businesses seeking to include small business partners to strengthen their proposals.
How to respond
To access the opportunity on the portal, click “View original source” above. 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 for many bids this is not necessary.
If your company is not on the current teaming matrix and wishes to be added, you must complete the short questionnaire by the August 28, 2026, 1:00 PM MST deadline. The link to the questionnaire is provided within the full description of the solicitation.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Review the updated Teaming and Partnering Matrix carefully once it is released. Proactively reach out to potential partners to explore collaboration opportunities. Remember that the government will not assist in forming these private business arrangements.
Thoroughly review all available informational materials from the virtual industry day, including slides and transcripts. These resources provide valuable insights into the agency's specific needs and priorities, which can help you tailor a more competitive response. If you need the video recording, request access via email as instructed.
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 the Air Force; the original posting controls.