How to bid on preventative maintenance for a Scan Module LSM 880 Microscope at NIH

What the agency is buying

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) plans to award a contract for preventative maintenance and service for a government-owned Carl Zeiss LSM 880/Axio Observer Z1 microscope system. This is a sole-source notice, meaning NIH intends to award the contract directly to Carl Zeiss Microscopy.

The work requires an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)-authorized service provider, factory-trained technicians, and OEM-certified parts. Vendors should note that NIH believes Carl Zeiss Microscopy is the only vendor with the necessary parts, inventory, and technical expertise.

Key dates and deadlines

This notice was published on August 06, 2026. The deadline for responses is August 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET. The acquisition is expected to occur around September 15, 2026.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is primarily for Carl Zeiss Microscopy, given the sole-source intent. However, other firms that can demonstrate they meet the strict requirements for OEM-authorized service, factory-trained technicians, and OEM-certified parts for the Carl Zeiss LSM 880/Axio Observer Z1 microscope system may choose to respond to challenge the sole-source determination. This falls under the equipment maintenance and repair category.

How to access and respond

To view the original source document, click the provided link on the portal. 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 to view all documents, though this is not always required.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even for a sole-source notice, if you believe your company can meet all stated requirements, provide a clear and concise explanation of your capabilities. Detail how your firm is an OEM-authorized provider, how your technicians are factory-trained, and how you use OEM-certified parts for the specific Carl Zeiss LSM 880/Axio Observer Z1 instrument.

Ensure your response directly addresses NIH's stated belief that Carl Zeiss Microscopy is the only known vendor. Provide concrete evidence and documentation to support your claims. Submit your response well before the August 21, 2026, 10:00 AM ET deadline.