provide docketing, tracking, payment and reporting services for foreign applications/patents.
ID: 1141588Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFAGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERVICEUSDA ARS AFM APDBELTSVILLE, MD, 20705, USA

NAICS

All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (541990)

PSC

SUPPORT- PROFESSIONAL: PROGRAM MANAGEMENT/SUPPORT (R408)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/a8ed550456864aa7899821effc69e879/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Agriculture, specifically the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), is seeking qualified contractors to provide docketing, tracking, payment, and reporting services for approximately 800 foreign patent applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The objective of this procurement is to ensure timely payment of annuities, maintenance fees, and taxes associated with these patents, utilizing a computerized docketing system that complies with international regulations. This initiative is crucial for protecting and commercializing agricultural research findings, thereby enhancing competitiveness in the global patent landscape. Interested parties must submit a Capabilities Statement to Scott Ballweg at scott.ballweg@usda.gov by November 4, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET, as this notice serves as a market survey and not a solicitation for proposals.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Scott Ballweg
    scott.ballweg@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DRAFT SOW.docx
    The Office of Technology Transfer (OTT) at the USDA, ARS seeks a contractor to manage foreign patent services, including docketing, tracking, and reporting on approximately 800 Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) applications. This initiative is aligned with ARS's mission to protect and commercialize research findings related to agricultural innovations, which may yield significant economic benefits. The contractor will ensure timely payment of annuities, maintenance fees, and taxes for foreign patents, utilizing a computerized docketing system capable of handling international regulations. Key deliverables include quarterly Tax Maintenance Reports detailing estimated payment costs and monthly confirmations of payments made, supporting ARS's extensive patent portfolio. Confidentiality is paramount, with strict adherence to applicable laws and regulations regarding the treatment of government data. This RFP underscores the government's commitment to fostering technological advancement while maintaining competitiveness and compliance in the global patent landscape.
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