SOURCES SOUGHT: Open RAN Cellular End-to-End System Software and Support
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 Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting a Sources Sought to identify qualified vendors for an Open RAN Cellular End-to-End System Software and Support. This market research aims to determine potential and eligible business firms, including small businesses, prior to determining the acquisition method. Responses are due by June 29, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks information on vendors capable of providing one Open RAN Cellular End-to-End System software with comprehensive support, as detailed in the attached draft specifications. Key requirements include:
- MX-PDK 3-Node SW License: Covering components like OAI RAN, OAI CN, Open5GS, MX-RIC (RICs/xApp/rApp/SDKs), MX-DATA (multi-source data lake), FHI 7.2 LITEON/Benetel, Dashboard & CLI, Emulation (Open RAN Studio), and TelcoFabric artifacts.
- Hosted DevOps and ASM: A 3-year coverage plan including technical support, maintenance, software updates, and a dedicated support channel with a ticketing system.
Vendor Requirements: Must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an "Active" Unique Entity Identification Number (UEI) on SAM.gov at the time of award. Delivery is required within three months After Receipt of Order (ARO), including turnkey installation (remote via Microsoft Teams and 40 hours onsite), training for 10 trainees, a 3-year base manufacturer warranty, and a 3-year maintenance plan.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: Market research to determine potential Small Business Set-aside opportunities (all categories will be considered). If at least two qualified small businesses are identified, the acquisition may be solicited as a small business set-aside.
- NAICS: 513210 – Software Publishers (Small Business Size Standard: $47M)
- Response Due: June 29, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: June 19, 2026
Evaluation
Responses will be utilized to identify potential and eligible firms of all sizes and to determine the method of acquisition. This is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and does not commit the Government to an award.
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements (limited to five pages) including:
- Company Profile (employees, office location(s), UEI, CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Name of manufacturer and country of origin.
- Specification sheets and examples of products meeting the attached specifications.
- Typical lead time for delivery, installation, and training.
- Identification and verification of small business status.
- Any other relevant information for market research.
Contact Information
Primary Point of Contact: Clifford Nicholson, clifford.nicholson@nist.gov, 303-497-5185.