Bid guide
How to bid on a Table-Top Free Space Measuring System for USDA-ARS Auburn AL
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Auburn, Alabama, is seeking information from businesses that can provide a specialized table-top free space measuring system. This instrument is crucial for their National Soil Dynamics Laboratory (NSDL) to measure reflection and transmission data of samples without touching or damaging them. The system needs to operate between 2.5 GHz and 20 GHz and connect to a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA).
This is a "Sources Sought" notice, which means the government is conducting market research. They are not asking for bids yet, but gathering information to determine if a future solicitation will be issued and what acquisition method to use. Responding to this notice allows your business to inform the agency about your capabilities and potentially influence future bidding opportunities.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This notice was published on December 15, 2025. All responses must be received by December 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. This is a firm deadline for submitting your capability statement.
After the deadline, the government will review the submitted information to assess the availability and capability of qualified sources. They will use this information for planning purposes and to decide on the appropriate acquisition method, including whether a set-aside for small businesses is possible. There will be no award made based on responses to this inquiry.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers or suppliers of analytical laboratory instruments, specifically those specializing in microwave instruments for non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of materials. The relevant NAICS code is 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing.
The USDA ARS is particularly interested in responses from various small business categories, including Small Businesses, HUBZone small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, 8(a) small businesses, veteran-owned small businesses, woman-owned small businesses, and small disadvantaged businesses.
How to respond to this notice
To respond, you need to submit a capability statement to the Contracting Officer. This statement should clearly document your firm's ability to provide the requested table-top free space measuring system.
Your capability statement must include: an acknowledgment that you can provide the supplies/services, your size standards according to the Small Business Administration, at least three previous similar requirements (including contract type, delivery method, and duration), and any other relevant information. Do not include proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information, and do not submit pricing information.
Practical tips for preparing your response
Focus on clearly demonstrating your firm's expertise in specialized microwave instruments and non-destructive material characterization. Detail how your proposed system meets or exceeds the specified requirements, such as the frequency range (2.5 GHz to 20 GHz) and the ability to connect to a VNA.
When describing past performance, choose examples that are as similar as possible to the USDA's stated needs. Highlight your experience with similar government or research institutions if applicable. Ensure your capability statement is complete and detailed enough for the government to fully understand your qualifications, as they will not provide feedback on submissions.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Agricultural Research Service; the original posting controls.