The U.S. General Services Administration is procuring a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution for the Air Force Research Laboratory's AFWERX program to facilitate operations of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This document outlines the Performance Work Statement (PWS) detailing the system's functionalities, which include proposal evaluations, automated data migration, contracting interfaces, and user experience design.
Key requirements include a secure, automated evaluation tool capable of managing fluctuating workflows, ensuring data integrity, and enhancing user interactions through a modern interface. The contractor must also provide project management, training, quality assurance, and customer support services, maintaining effective communication with government representatives.
The contract spans an initial 12-month period with options for extensions, demanding strict adherence to performance metrics and timelines. A phase-in and phase-out plan is required for seamless transitions. Security protocols, such as Tier 1 Background Clearances for personnel, and compliance with federal cybersecurity standards are mandatory.
This initiative aims to optimize government-funded research processes, enhance data reporting accuracy, and improve the overall experience for users involved in the SBIR/STTR programs.
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is conducting a Sources Sought Synopsis on behalf of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) for the AFVentures SBIR Evaluations Tool project. This initiative is aimed at gathering market research information regarding potential business sources, particularly focusing on small business classifications and their technical capabilities in providing a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution for the Department of Defense’s SBIR/STTR processes. The anticipated award is a Firm Fixed Price contract with an estimated value of $3.2 million.
Responses will assist the government in determining acquisition methods, including potential set-asides for small businesses. Businesses are encouraged to submit capability statements detailing their qualifications for meeting the project’s requirements, including experience with SBIR/STTR programs and existing commercial solutions. The government is particularly interested in capabilities that optimize automation and reduce user workload within the evaluation tool.
GSA will use this information for internal market research only, with no obligation for future procurement. If inadequate viable responses are received, GSA intends to negotiate on a Sole Source Basis with the incumbent contractor when the current contract expires. Interested businesses must submit their responses within 14 days of the notice posting.