How to bid on Digital GI Bill Automation and Modernization for the VA

What the VA is buying and why it matters

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking information from industry to modernize its Digital GI Bill (DGIB) platform. This effort aims to automate and improve how education benefits are processed for veterans, servicemembers, and their dependents.

The VA wants to transition the DGIB platform to a VA-owned/managed cloud-based infrastructure, enhance automation in claims processing, and improve the overall user experience for both veterans and VA employees. This is a critical platform, processing over $12 billion in education benefits annually.

This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a solicitation for a contract. The VA is gathering insights on technical and acquisition strategies to achieve its modernization goals. Your input will help the VA shape its future plans and potential solicitations.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Information was published on July 16, 2026. Responses are due by August 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline.

At the deadline, the VA will stop accepting submissions. Since this is an RFI, the VA will review the submitted information to help develop its acquisition strategy and Performance Work Statement (PWS). There will be no contract award based on this RFI, and responses will not be evaluated for technical merit or provide any competitive advantage in future procurements.

Who this opportunity suits

This RFI is suitable for companies with expertise in computer systems design services, particularly those specializing in cloud migration, enterprise platform development, claims processing automation, and improving user experience for large-scale government systems. The VA is considering NAICS Code 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services).

Firms with experience in modernizing legacy systems, transitioning to cloud environments, and implementing automation solutions for complex benefit administration programs would find this RFI particularly relevant. Experience with federal government IT projects, especially within the VA, would also be beneficial for understanding the context.

How to respond to this RFI

To access the full RFI and prepare your response, you need to go to the official portal. Click “View original source” to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.

You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents. However, for many bids, you can view documents without an account. Follow the instructions within the RFI document for specific submission requirements and formats. Do not include pricing information or a proposal in your response, as this is solely for market research.

Practical tips for a competitive RFI response

When preparing your response, focus on providing clear, concise, and actionable insights regarding technical and acquisition strategies. Highlight your firm's capabilities and experience that directly address the VA's stated goals of cloud transition, automation, and user experience improvement for the Digital GI Bill.

Ensure your response directly addresses the questions or areas of interest outlined in the RFI. Clearly mark any proprietary or sensitive information. While this RFI does not lead to a contract, a well-crafted response demonstrates your expertise and understanding of the VA's needs, which can be valuable for future opportunities.