How to bid on an Illumina NextSeq 2000 and DRAGEN for the VA

What the VA is buying and why it matters

The Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHS) is looking to purchase an Illumina NextSeq 2000 Sequencer, a DRAGEN Server, installation services, and training. This is a brand-name-or-equal request, meaning the agency will consider equivalent products that meet the specified characteristics.

This opportunity is for a firm-fixed-price supply order. Vendors should be aware that the delivery location is North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Key dates and deadlines

Quotes are due by 3:00 PM Central Standard Time (CST) on July 10, 2026. All quotes must be emailed to the Contracting Officer.

Written questions about this solicitation must be submitted by 12:00 PM CST on July 30, 2026. Note that the deadline for questions is after the quote submission deadline, so plan accordingly if you have questions.

Who this opportunity suits

This solicitation is unrestricted, meaning businesses of all sizes can bid. The relevant North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code is 334516, for Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, with a small business size standard of 1000 employees.

This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers or authorized distributors of laboratory sequencing equipment and related server technology, as well as companies capable of providing installation and training for such systems.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Sometimes the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, so you may need to click the link a second time to reach the specific bid.

Quotes must be emailed to [email protected] by the deadline. The email subject line must include "RFQ 36C25626Q1003 Trumpf Bed". Your quote can be submitted on the provided document or your own form. It must include a completed Trade Agreements Certificate 52.225-6. If you are not the manufacturer, you must provide an authorized distributor letter. You also need to include sufficient documentation to show your product meets or exceeds the required characteristics, and state your product's delivery date.

Tips for a competitive response

Since this is a Brand Name or Equal (BNOE) request, ensure your documentation clearly demonstrates how your proposed product meets or exceeds all the salient characteristics of the specified Illumina NextSeq 2000 and DRAGEN system. Generic product brochures may not be enough; provide specific details.

Pay close attention to all required supporting documentation, such as the Trade Agreements Certificate and, if applicable, the authorized distributor letter. Missing these items can lead to your quote being considered non-responsive. Also, clearly state your proposed delivery date in your quote.

Submit any questions in writing to the Contracting Officer by the stated deadline, even though it is after the quote deadline. Ensure your email subject line for questions includes the solicitation number 36C25626Q0961. Do not make telephone inquiries.