5836--Sources Sought VA Sioux Falls Health Care Center Research Department Noldus EthoVision and UtraVox XT
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically the Sioux Falls Health Care System, is conducting a Sources Sought for market research to identify vendors capable of providing Noldus EthoVision and UtraVox XT systems for their Research Department. This equipment is crucial for animal behavioral research, particularly in studying stress-induced disorders like PTSD and addiction. Responses are due by February 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for Brand Name or Equal items, including:
- Noldus EthoVision Software Licenses: EV160-01298-AANEIAAA (with Social Interaction Module) and EV160-05746-AAFEIAAA (with Multiple Arena & Social Interaction Module).
- Noldus UltraVox XT System: With 4 microphones, compatible with Windows 11 Pro (64-bit) 23H2/24H2, Dell Precision 3680 or higher desktop, or Dell 3591 Mobile laptop (with specific USB, RAM, and storage requirements).
- Hardware: 2x Deep Learning Workstations, 2x Mouse-Sized Light Dark Chambers, 4x Mouse PhenoTypers, and 4x Mouse-Sized Fear Conditioning Setups.
- Services: Onsite integration, installation, and training, estimated delivery fee, and a 3-year NoldusCare maintenance plan or manufacturer's warranty (whichever is greater).
Delivery is required to the Research building at Sioux Falls VA Medical Center, 2501 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, 90-120 days after award. Installation is tentatively scheduled for July 2026.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified; market research is being conducted to determine potential socio-economic categories and small business participation.
- Response Due: February 27, 2026, 11:00 AM Central Time
- Published: February 19, 2026
Evaluation
This is a market research effort to identify qualified businesses. Vendors must provide their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), proof of capability, and answers to specific questions regarding socio-economic category, manufacturer status, country of origin, existing government contract eligibility, small business status (13 CFR 121.406), subcontracting plans, and estimated shipping/delivery information.
Additional Notes
This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or guarantee a future award. The equipment will be used to track and analyze movement, activity, and behavior of mice for various animal behavior applications.