AFN Radio Imaging Services
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 War Information Activity (DWIA), under the HQ DEFENSE MEDIA ACTIVITY, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for full-service radio imaging production for the American Forces Network (AFN) "The Eagle" radio services. The intent is to identify capable firms for a future competitive procurement. This opportunity is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Responses are due by May 12, 2026, 01:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The successful contractor will be responsible for delivering a comprehensive, modern, dynamic, and professional sonic brand identity for AFN "The Eagle," consistent with U.S. top-market Hot AC/Top40 radio stations. AFN "The Eagle" operates 26 overseas affiliate stations and two region-specific network feeds (Europe & Asia-Pacific).
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing a complete package of custom-produced and voiced imaging for all 26 overseas local affiliate stations and the two regional network feeds.
- Ensuring the sonic branding remains fresh and current through regular updates (quarterly, biannually, or annually).
- Granting authorized AFN producers access to an online, comprehensive, and regularly updated library of industry-standard radio imaging assets.
Key Deliverables include:
- Imaging packages: Sweepers, station IDs, and promos suitable for a Hot AC/Top40 music format.
- Imaging elements library: Music beds, ramps, drones; sweeper shells, templates, production work parts; sound effects, impacts, whooshes, zaps, stings, and other audio elements; topical and seasonal imaging elements; artist drops and other vocal samples.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- PSC: R426 - Communications Services
- NAICS: 512290 - Other Sound Recording Industries
- Response Due: May 12, 2026, 01:00 PM EST
- Published: April 14, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested parties are requested to submit a capability statement (no more than 10 pages) demonstrating their ability to provide the described services. The statement should include:
- Company Information: Name, address, CAGE code, UEI, and socio-economic status.
- Experience: Details of similar services provided, with an emphasis on major-market or syndicated radio experience.
- Capabilities: An outline of their approach to radio imaging, access to talent, production facilities, libraries, and proposed update frequency.
- Past Performance: At least three client references from the past three years.
Important Notes
This is a Sources Sought notice for market research purposes only and is NOT a Request for Proposal (RFP). Responses will not be considered proposals, and no award will be made from this notice. The government will not pay for any information received, and all submissions become government property. Any future solicitation will be announced separately on SAM.gov.
Contact Information
- Primary: Nastashia Willoughby (nastashia.d.willoughby.civ@mail.mil)
- Secondary: Thomas Brown (thomas.j.brown314.civ@mail.mil, 301-222-6908)