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), specifically the Information Technology 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) offerings, including IBM software products, subscription and support renewals, Expert Lab Services, and Remote Services. The purpose is to gather information for planning and to establish a 5-year BPA to sustain and expand NASA's IBM portfolio. Responses are due by close of business March 3, 2026.
Scope of Work
NASA relies on IBM technologies for its business operations, IT infrastructure, and mission systems across all centers. The anticipated BPA will ensure long-term sustainment and strategic expansion of NASA's broad IBM portfolio, enabling secure access to IBM software and tools, and managing licensing compliantly and cost-effectively. The SOW details requirements for providing access to all IBM Software and SSSO offerings, supporting current IBM utilization, and maintaining resilience to evolving technological demands.
Key Requirements & Questions
NASA is seeking responses to specific questions, including:
- Ability to meet requirements via GSA Federal Supply Schedule and/or SEWP V contract.
- Firm's IBM Partner Certification level (Platinum, Gold, Silver) and "Special Software Terms" certification.
- Ability to provide a named, dedicated Software License Specialist with at least 2 years of IBM licensing experience.
- Capability to provide customized purchase reports for NASA's Software License and Asset Management (SLAM) system.
- Ability to provide training materials and expert guidance on IBM license compliance.
- Identification of necessary IBM Partner Certification level for the SOW requirements.
- Any additional cost implications for reporting or deliverable requirements.
- Firm's business size.
Performance Standards (from SOW)
- Contractor must maintain IBM Platinum level partner and Special Software Terms certifications.
- Provide proof of certification upon request.
- Deliver software license keys/access credentials within 2 business days of call order award.
- Provide a named point of contact with at least 2 years of IBM licensing and compliance experience.
- Submit a SLAM Purchase Report within 5 business days of each BPA call order, including specific data fields.
- Provide a monthly Cumulative Entitlement Snapshot report.
- Provide information and guidance for license compliance upon request.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) for a BPA
- Duration: Anticipated Five (5) year ordering period for the BPA
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: March 3, 2026
- Published: February 24, 2026
- Place of Performance: NASA Centers and facilities across the United States, including remote and hybrid environments.
Additional Notes
This is for information and planning purposes only and is not a request for quotation. The Government will not pay for information submitted. All comments or questions should be submitted electronically to Nicolas Zogaib at nicolas.a.zogaib@nasa.gov.