REQUEST FOR INFORMATION RFI CW001-26
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 Federal Prison Industries, Inc. (FPI), operating as UNICOR, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) CW001-26 to gather market data for a potential three-year agreement for fabricated metal products, specifically K-9 Cages and Inmate Transport Inserts. This RFI aims to identify potential domestic small business vendors. Responses are due by 2:00 PM EST on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.
Scope of Interest
FPI is seeking information on fabricated metal products, including various K-9 cage insert kits, climate guard systems, and inmate transport inserts. These products are intended for UNICOR inmate workers to upfit vehicles for sale to the Federal Government. Estimated quantities are provided for three delivery locations: FCI Bastrop, TX, FCI La Tuna, TX, and FCI Victorville, CA.
RFI Objectives
- Collaborate with industry to structure a potential Request for Proposal (RFP).
- Expand the vendor list, particularly for domestic small businesses.
- Increase market awareness and participation from relevant and capable suppliers.
Key Questions for Industry
Respondents are asked to provide information on their interest and company background, availability of items from domestic sources, SAM registration status as a small business, and general market information such as industry standard lead times, Economic Price Increase index, and ordering quantities.
Submission Guidelines
- Deadline: On or before 2:00 PM EST, Wednesday, June 3, 2026.
- Submission Method: Electronically to chelsea.walker3@usdoj.gov and tiffani.balestrini@usdoj.gov.
- Subject Line: "RFI RESPONSE – Steel Fabrication CW001-26 RFI (Your Organization name)"
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (seeking domestic small businesses)
- Response Due: June 3, 2026
- Published: May 22, 2026
Disclaimer
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not commit the government to a future procurement. All costs associated with responding are at the respondent's expense.