HQ JROTC NATIONAL DRONE CHAMPIONSHIP
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 the Army, MICC-FT KNOX, has issued a Sources Sought Notice for a non-personal service contract to support the JROTC Army Drone National Championship from May 20-24, 2026. This notice aims to identify qualified small businesses capable of providing comprehensive event management and facility rental services, with the intent to set aside the future solicitation for small businesses if sufficient responses are received. Responses are due by April 3, 2026, at 9:00 AM EST.
Purpose
This is a market research effort to determine industry capabilities for a potential small business set-aside. The U.S. Government is seeking information from all small businesses (including 8(a), SDB, HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB) to assess their ability to meet the requirement at a fair market price. This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or a promise to issue one.
Scope of Work
The contractor will provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, and supervision necessary to facilitate the rental of a contractor facility and support the JROTC Army Drone National Championship. Key requirements include:
- Supporting approximately 1,000 JROTC cadets, spectators, educators, and media.
- Securing a facility of at least 100,000 square feet, including specific areas for drone competition (approx. 10,000 sq ft), judging/scoring (approx. 10,000 sq ft), and team inspection (approx. 10,000 sq ft).
- Providing registration services for up to 80 teams.
- Offering audio/video and livestream services.
- Providing seating for 1,000 spectators, coaches, and cadets.
- Ensuring access to loading docks and equipment/personnel ramps.
- Coordinating janitorial/custodial services.
- Providing food concessions at no cost to the Government.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought
- Anticipated Set-Aside: Potential Small Business Set-Aside (contingent on responses)
- NAICS Code: 711310 (Promoters of performing arts, sports and similar events with facilities)
- Size Standard: $40 Million
- Period of Performance: May 20-24, 2026
- Place of Performance: Columbus Trade and Convention Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus, GA, 31901
- Response Due Date: April 3, 2026, 9:00 AM EST
- Published Date: March 25, 2026
Response Requirements
Interested firms should provide:
- Firm name, point of contact, phone, email, DUNS, CAGE, small business status/certifications, and NAICS code.
- Statement of interest as a prime contractor, including any subcontracting, joint ventures, or teaming arrangements.
- Detailed information on previous experience with similar requirements (size, scope, complexity, timeframe, government or commercial).
- Information on commercial availability, including pricing, delivery schedules, terms, and warranties.
- Recommendations on how the Army can best structure contract requirements to facilitate small business competition.
- Identification of any conditions restricting competition, with rationale.
- Recommendations to improve the draft Performance Work Statement (PWS).
Additional Notes
A draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) is attached for review. This notice does not commit the U.S. Government to contract for any supply or service, nor will it pay for information submitted. Not responding does not preclude participation in any future solicitation. For competition concerns, contact Scott Kukes at scott.d.kukes.civ@army.mil.
Submission: Responses must be emailed to Contract Specialist Renete L. Barnett-Morgan (renete.l.barnett-morgan.civ@army.mil) and Contracting Officer Ranetta DeRamos (ranetta.m.deramos.civ@army.mil).