How to respond to the U.S. Department of State’s Digital Forensics Equipment RFI

What the State Department is asking for

The U.S. Department of State is gathering vendor information about digital forensics equipment to shape a possible future purchase. This is market research, not a request for bids or quotes, and it does not promise that a future solicitation will be issued.

The agency says the information may help refine requirements, procurement strategy, contract type, and possible small-business set-asides. Vendors are not being asked to submit a price or proposal at this stage.

Key date and deadline

The RFI was published October 22, 2026. Responses are due November 13, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. CST, according to the notice’s submission instructions.

Who this opportunity may suit

This RFI may suit vendors that provide digital forensics equipment and can describe their ability to deliver a complete solution. It is also relevant to small businesses interested in informing the agency’s planning for a possible future procurement.

How to access the documents and respond

Open the opportunity through the portal’s “View original source” option. The first click may lead to the portal homepage; click again to reach the opportunity. A free account may be needed to view documents.

For the restricted RFI documents, download and sign Restricted Access Request Form 19AQMM26N0006. Email the signed form to [email protected], then use SAM.gov’s “Request Access” button. The user requesting access must have the appropriate role in the SAM.gov entity registration. The attachments are available for direct download from SAM.gov after access is granted; the Contracting Officer will not email them.

Review the RFI document and follow its response instructions. Email a capability statement as one PDF or Word attachment to [email protected], with “19AQMM26N0006: Digital Forensics” in the subject line. Send questions about the notice to the same email address.

Prepare a clear, useful capability statement

Describe the digital forensics equipment your firm provides and explain how your capabilities could support delivery of a complete solution. Keep the information specific and easy to assess.

Follow the attached RFI’s formatting instructions, check that the email subject line is exact, and confirm the capability statement is a single PDF or Word file before sending. Treat this as market research: do not submit a bid or quote.