USDA FAS Reverse Trade Mission - Las Vegas, NV
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 USDA Departmental Administration is soliciting proposals for Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) implementation services in Las Vegas, NV, to support the 2026 Sweets and Snacks Trade Show. This Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Set-Aside opportunity aims to promote U.S. food and agricultural exports by connecting foreign buyers with U.S. businesses. Quotes are due January 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET.
Scope of Work
The contractor will provide comprehensive support for the RTM program, including:
- Identification and outreach to export-ready U.S. businesses.
- Matchmaking facilitation between U.S. exhibitors and RTM participants.
- Logistics management, encompassing ground transportation, lodging for up to 75 sponsored participants, meeting spaces, and interpretation/translation services in English and at least three additional languages.
- Coordination of site visits and plenary speakers, with the contractor responsible for sourcing and funding speakers.
- Development and supply of informational materials, including welcome packets and utilizing the CVent AttendeeHub Mobile Platform.
- Conducting post-RTM surveys and documenting testimonials.
- Developing a custom RTM 2026 logo. The contractor will provide parallel programming, leveraging existing trade show infrastructure, and coordinate with the trade show organizer for exhibitor lists and on-floor meetings. Responsibility includes RTM-specific venue/meeting space outside the main show floor and transportation to/from events.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ)
- Set-Aside: Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program Set-Aside (NAICS 561920, Size Standard $20 Million)
- Period of Performance: Date of award through August 31, 2026.
- RTM Event Dates: May 18-21, 2026, within the broader May 16-22, 2026 event period.
- Place of Performance: Primarily Las Vegas, NV, for the RTM; pre- and post-RTM activities at the contractor's U.S. location.
Submission & Evaluation
- Quote Due Date: January 26, 2026, 10:00 AM U.S. Eastern Standard Time.
- Submission Method: Electronic via email to william.walton@usda.gov.
- Quote Format: Two separate volumes: Volume I (Non-price factors, max 20 pages excluding resumes) and Volume II (Price Quote, Excel spreadsheet or similar).
- Evaluation Criteria: Best value determination based on equally weighted factors: Prior Experience (demonstrating strong ties with U.S. agricultural/agribusiness communities, experience in high-visibility events, international buyer coordination), Staffing Plan, and Technical Approach (project plan). Price will be evaluated for reasonableness and consistency.
Key Clarifications & Requirements
The contractor is responsible for venue and meeting space costs not covered by the trade show, and food/beverage services should be included as a separate line item. Budgeting for 75 sponsored buyers for meeting management, and 75 sponsored, 35 self-pay buyers, and 30 staff members for transportation and catering is required. Offerors must acknowledge all solicitation amendments.