IBM Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) Request for Information (RFI)
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), through its IT Procurement Office (ITPO), has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for an IBM Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA). This RFI seeks information from potential sources capable of providing IBM Software and Services Special Options (SSSO), including software products, subscription renewals, Expert Lab Services, and Remote Services. NASA intends to establish a BPA to sustain and expand its critical IBM portfolio. Responses are due by March 3, 2026.
Purpose
This RFI is for information and planning purposes only, not a request for quotation. NASA aims to gather industry input to verify the reasonableness and feasibility of its requirements, promote competition, and finalize a future Request for Quotation (RFQ). The information will help NASA ensure long-term sustainment, strategic expansion, secure access, compliant licensing, and minimized operational risk for its extensive IBM technology reliance.
Scope of Work
The anticipated BPA will cover a comprehensive range of IBM offerings:
- IBM Software Products and Programs
- IBM Subscription & Support (S&S) renewals for previously acquired Programs
- Expert Lab Services
- Remote Services The contractor will support current IBM utilization and provide offerings to maintain resilience and adaptability to evolving technological demands across all NASA centers, mission directorates, and partner organizations.
Key Requirements & Questions for Respondents
NASA is asking interested parties to address several key questions, including:
- Ability to meet requirements via GSA Federal Supply Schedule and/or SEWP V contract.
- Possession of IBM Partner Certification (Platinum, Gold, or Silver) and IBM "Special Software Terms" certification for Enterprise License Agreements.
- Ability to provide a named dedicated Software License Specialist with at least 2 years of IBM licensing experience.
- Capability to provide purchase reports with specific data fields and formatting for NASA's Software License and Asset Management (SLAM) system, with flexibility for adjustments.
- Ability to provide training materials and expert guidance on IBM license compliance.
- Opinion on the necessary IBM Partner Certification level for the attached SOW.
- Any additional cost implications for reporting or deliverable requirements.
- Firm's business size.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified (for market research)
- Product Service Code: DA10 (Support Services, SaaS/Subscription, Application Development)
- Anticipated Duration: Five (5) year ordering period for the future BPA.
- Place of Performance: NASA Centers and facilities across the United States, including remote and hybrid work environments.
- Response Due: March 3, 2026 (Close of Business)
- Published: February 27, 2026
Additional Notes
A draft Statement of Work (SOW) outlines performance standards, including maintaining IBM Platinum level partner and Special Software Terms certifications, providing a dedicated representative and IBM License Specialist, and ensuring NASA access to IBM support systems. A separate document, "NASA IBM Site IDs.pdf," provides lists of known NASA IBM Site IDs, including those with Maximo entitlement, which bidders should review for scope understanding. This notice is not a commitment by the Government, and responses will not be paid for.