Bid guide
How to bid on VISN 5 Optical Fabrication Laboratory Lens Production Machines for VA
What the VA is buying and why it matters
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking lens-production equipment and related peripherals for its VISN 5 Optical Fabrication Laboratory in Boise, Idaho. This purchase includes specific brand-name-or-equal Satisloh lens generators, tooling, performance packages, and preventive maintenance services.
This opportunity is for vendors who can supply specialized ophthalmic manufacturing equipment and provide ongoing maintenance. The equipment is critical for the VA's optical lab operations, ensuring veterans receive necessary ophthalmic goods.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This solicitation was published on September 03, 2026. All offers must be submitted by September 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions are typically not considered.
The equipment is required to be delivered within 120 days after the contract award. Following the initial warranty period, there will be three one-year option periods for preventative annual maintenance, with a possible six-month extension.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in ophthalmic goods manufacturing, particularly those with experience supplying or servicing high-precision lens production equipment. The NAICS code for this acquisition is 339115, Ophthalmic Goods Manufacturing.
This is an unrestricted acquisition, meaning it is open to all businesses and is not set aside for small business concerns. Vendors should be capable of providing brand-name-or-equal Satisloh equipment as specified.
How to respond to this solicitation
This is a combined synopsis/solicitation, meaning it serves as both an announcement and a request for quotation. A separate written solicitation will not be issued. To access the full details and prepare your offer, you will need to view the original source document.
To view the opportunity, click the 'View original source' link. 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 on the portal to access all documents, though this is not always required.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Carefully review all specifications, especially the 'brand name or equal' requirements. Ensure your proposed equipment meets or exceeds the salient characteristics outlined in the performance work statement.
Pay close attention to the delivery timeline of 120 days after award for all equipment. Also, clearly detail your plan for providing the preventative annual maintenance for the initial three option years and the potential six-month extension. Highlight your firm's experience with similar equipment and maintenance services.
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 Veterans Affairs, Department of; the original posting controls.