How to bid on Imtakt Liquid Chromatography Columns for the CDC

What the CDC is buying and why it matters

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) plans to purchase Imtakt Unison UK-C-18 and Cadenza HS-C18 liquid chromatography columns. These columns are essential for assays that measure antiretroviral drugs in biological specimens.

The CDC states these specific columns are required because their existing assays were developed and validated using these exact products. Substituting different columns could affect assay results and require costly revalidation, potentially disrupting critical antiretroviral drug monitoring.

This is a sole-source purchase, meaning the CDC intends to buy these items directly from Imtakt USA, as they are identified as the only authorized source for these proprietary products. However, other suppliers who believe they can meet the requirements are invited to submit a capability statement.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 22, 2026. The deadline for submitting capability statements is August 06, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.

At the deadline, the Contracting Officer will review any submitted capability statements. The government will use this information to decide whether to proceed with a sole-source award to Imtakt USA or to consider a competitive procurement. No competitive solicitation is currently planned.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is for firms that can supply Imtakt Unison UK-C-18 and Cadenza HS-C18 liquid chromatography columns. It specifically targets suppliers who believe they can provide these exact proprietary products, or equivalent products that meet the CDC's stringent requirements for assay validity and continuity.

The relevant category for this procurement is laboratory equipment and consumables, specifically liquid chromatography columns used in scientific assays.

How to respond to this RFI

If you believe you can meet the CDC's requirements, you must submit a written capability statement. This statement should be sent to Liubov Kriel via email at [email protected].

Ensure you reference solicitation #2026-Q-97212 in the subject line of your email. The Contracting Officer will not respond to verbal requests; all communications must be in writing.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When preparing your capability statement, clearly demonstrate how your firm can supply the exact Imtakt Unison UK-C-18 and Cadenza HS-C18 liquid chromatography columns. If you are not Imtakt USA, you must clearly explain your authorization or ability to provide these specific proprietary products.

Focus on addressing the CDC's stated need for exact column chemistry to maintain assay validity and reproducibility. Highlight how your offering ensures no alteration to retention time, resolution, or reproducibility, thereby avoiding costly revalidation and disruption to ongoing monitoring.

Ensure your statement is concise, professional, and directly addresses the requirements outlined in the RFI. Provide evidence or clear explanations of your capacity to meet these specific needs by the stated deadline.