How to bid on a Secure Cloud Platform for Screening System Data Sharing Consortium for the Office of Procurement Operations

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL) is conducting market research for a secure cloud platform. This platform will support the Screening System Data Sharing Consortium (SSDSC). Its purpose is to migrate, store, curate, protect, index, and share large datasets from screening systems. These datasets include non-sensitive data and Sensitive Security Information (SSI). The goal is to help develop and test threat-detection algorithms.

This is a Request for Information (RFI) only. It is not a request for bids or proposals. The government is gathering information and may or may not issue a formal solicitation later. There is no existing incumbent contractor for this work.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on July 22, 2026. Responses are due by August 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. This is a deadline for submitting information, not a bid. The government will use the information received for market research and planning purposes. No contract will be awarded based on RFI responses.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for technology firms with expertise in secure cloud platforms, data migration, storage, curation, protection, and indexing. Experience with large datasets, especially those requiring rigorous security and privacy compliance for sensitive information, is relevant. Companies that can provide program management, communications, business operations, and acquisition and financial management support for such a platform would also be a good fit.

How to respond

To access the RFI, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required.

Remember, this is an RFI for market research. Do not submit proprietary data, trade secrets, or business-sensitive information unless absolutely necessary and properly marked. The government is seeking general product and service information.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Even though this is an RFI, a well-prepared response can position your company favorably for future solicitations. Clearly articulate your capabilities in managing secure cloud platforms, handling large and sensitive datasets, and supporting advanced algorithm development.

Focus on demonstrating your technical expertise and experience with similar projects. Highlight any relevant certifications or compliance frameworks your solutions adhere to, especially concerning data security and privacy. Since the TSL is moving towards an open architecture approach, emphasize your ability to integrate with standards-based, interoperable software and hardware components.