How to bid on Fresh Apples and Pears for Food Assistance Programs from Agricultural Marketing Service

What the agency is buying

The Agricultural Marketing Service, an agency of the USDA, is seeking bids for fresh apples and pears. These fruits are intended for use in domestic food assistance programs. This is an invitation for bids, meaning the agency is looking for the most competitive pricing for the specified products.

This opportunity is specifically set aside for small business concerns, making it a valuable chance for smaller firms in the agricultural sector to supply the government.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on July 16, 2026. The deadline for submitting your bid is August 06, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. All offers must be submitted by this time.

It is crucial to submit your bid on time. Late submissions are generally not accepted and will not be considered for award.

Who this opportunity suits

This solicitation is ideal for small businesses involved in the supply of fresh produce, specifically apples and pears. Firms with established logistics for handling and delivering fresh fruit will be well-suited.

The opportunity falls under the food and agriculture category, making it relevant for growers, distributors, and suppliers in this sector.

How to respond

To access the full details of this solicitation, you need to go to the original source on the portal. 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 to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though for some bids, this is not required.

Tips for a competitive response

When preparing your bid, ensure your pricing for fresh apples and pears is highly competitive. Since this is an Invitation for Bid (IFB), price is a primary factor in the award decision.

Carefully review all specifications and requirements for the apples and pears, including any details on quality, packaging, and delivery. Ensure your offer fully complies with these requirements. Double-check all calculations and ensure your submission is free of errors.

Pay close attention to the instructions for bid submission to ensure your offer is formatted correctly and includes all necessary documentation. Submitting a complete and accurate bid on time is essential for consideration.