How to bid on CPE ST3 Professional Services with the Dept of the Army

What the Army is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Army is seeking professional, scientific, and technical services for its CPE ST3 program. This is a Request for Information (RFI) to gather details from potential vendors. The Army plans to set this opportunity aside specifically for small businesses, which means it could be a significant chance for smaller firms to secure a government contract.

The acquisition strategy is being altered to use a FAR Part 12 Combined Synopsis/Solicitation as a Commercial Service Set Aside. This indicates the Army's intent to streamline the procurement process for these services.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on July 09, 2026. The deadline for responses is September 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. All submissions must be received by this time.

A new draft solicitation is expected to be posted on or about July 24, 2026. Vendors should monitor the official portal for this update, as it will provide more specific details about the upcoming bid.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is ideal for small businesses that provide professional, scientific, and technical services. The Department of the Army is specifically targeting small business vendors for this requirement.

Firms with experience in commercial services, particularly those that align with the anticipated FAR Part 12 Combined Synopsis/Solicitation approach, will find this RFI relevant.

How to access and respond to the RFI

To view the original source of this opportunity, click the 'View original source' link. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.

You may need a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid. Review all available documents, including the Q&A, to understand the Army's needs and the anticipated strategy.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Since this is an RFI, focus on providing clear, concise information about your firm's capabilities and experience in professional, scientific, and technical services. Highlight your qualifications that align with the Army's stated needs.

Pay close attention to the upcoming draft solicitation expected around July 24, 2026. This will likely contain more specific requirements and evaluation criteria. Begin preparing your internal team and gathering relevant past performance examples now.

Ensure your company is properly registered and that all your small business certifications are current and accurate. This is crucial for set-aside opportunities.