Bid guide
How to bid on USDA OASCR Final Agency Decision Support Services
What the USDA is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR) is seeking information from contractors who can provide support for EEO complaint processing. This includes non-ADR counseling, decisions on complaint acceptance or dismissal, and final agency decisions.
The work requires adherence to federal EEO regulations, specifically 29 C.F.R. Part 1614 and EEOC Management Directive 110 (MD-110). Deliverables must meet professional legal drafting standards. This is an important opportunity for firms specializing in legal support and EEO compliance, as the USDA is using this RFI to explore potential small business set-asides for a future solicitation.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on September 08, 2026. Responses are due by September 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
This is a market research tool, not a request for quotes or a commitment to award a contract. The USDA is using responses to develop its acquisition strategy for a possible future Request for Quote (RFQ) and to determine if a small business set-aside is feasible. No contract will be awarded based on this RFI, and no proposals will be considered at this stage. Submitting a response is voluntary and not required to participate in any future formal RFQ process.
Who this opportunity suits
This RFI is suitable for professional services firms with expertise in Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaint processing, legal drafting, and compliance with federal EEO regulations and EEOC Management Directive 110. Firms with a background in providing support to government agencies in legal or HR compliance areas would be well-suited.
The USDA is specifically considering whether a small business set-aside is possible for this procurement, making this an important RFI for small businesses in the professional services category.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full details and respond to this opportunity, you will need to go to the original source on the portal. Click the link provided to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view documents, though this is not always necessary for every bid. Follow any instructions provided on the portal for submitting your response to the RFI.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Even though this is an RFI and not a solicitation for a contract, your response is crucial for informing the agency's future plans. Clearly articulate your firm's capabilities and experience in EEO complaint processing, legal drafting, and compliance with 29 C.F.R. Part 1614 and EEOC MD-110.
Highlight any specific experience working with federal agencies or similar large organizations. If you are a small business, ensure your response clearly indicates your small business status, as the USDA is exploring set-aside possibilities. Focus on demonstrating your firm's ability to deliver timely, impartial, and high-quality services that meet professional legal drafting standards.
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 USDA, Office of Procurement and Property Management; the original posting controls.