Communication services from MAX Gigapop (MAX)
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 National Institutes of Health (NIH), under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is seeking Internet 2 (i2) communication services from MAX Gigapop (MAX). This is a sole-source Request for Quotation (RFQ) to support NIH researchers and scientists with high-speed data transfer to cloud service providers. Quotations are due by April 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM EST.
Scope of Work
This requirement includes continuous 24x7 monitoring of connectivity, access to a service request/ticketing system, timely status updates during outages, and weekly reports on maintenance or service interruptions. Specific Internet Connection Sites include NS ENG - NLM 10 Gbps Internet2 Connection, eRA.MAX.DirectConnect, NS ENG ERA.MAX Cross Connect at Equinix (Ashburn, VA), and CIT Strides Azure ER MAX Two 10G Layer 2 Ports and Transport.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm fixed price purchase for severable services.
- Period of Performance: May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027 (Base Year).
- Set-Aside: This is a sole-source procurement, restricted in accordance with FAR 12.102(a).
- NAICS Code: 517111 with a 1,500-employee size standard.
Submission & Evaluation
- Submission Deadline: Tuesday, April 28, 2026, no later than 11:00 AM EST.
- Submission Method: Via email to Kari Peterson (karina.peterson@hhs.gov) and Teferi Gebremariam (teferi.gebremariam@hhs.gov).
- Evaluation: Award will be made to the technically acceptable quotation that demonstrates the ability to meet technical requirements, shows knowledge/experience, and contains detailed pricing. The Government intends to make a single fixed-price award.
- Required Quote Contents: Cover letter (RFQ Number, TIN, UEI, Cage Code, Business size/designation, Point of Contact, Remit-to address), acknowledgement of amendments, and pricing/discount terms.
Additional Notes
This notice is not a request for competitive quotations. However, responsible sources may submit a capability statement. Contractors must be registered and have a valid certification through SAM.gov. All correspondence should reference solicitation number 75N98026Q00256.