Communication services from MAX Gigapop (MAX)
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 Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), specifically the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is seeking Internet 2 (i2) communication services from MAX Gigapop (MAX). This is a sole-source Request for Quotation (RFQ) to support NIH researchers, scientists, and entities with high-speed data transfer to various cloud service providers. Quotations are due by April 28, 2026, at 11:00 am EST.
Scope of Work
The required services include:
- Continuous 24x7 monitoring of connectivity.
- Access to a service request/ticketing system for trouble resolution.
- Timely status updates during circuit outages or service degradation.
- Weekly reports on planned maintenance, service interruptions, or outages.
- Specific Internet Connection Sites: NS ENG - NLM 10 Gbps Internet2 Connection, eRA.MAX.DirectConnect, NS ENG ERA.MAX Cross Connect at Equinix (Ashburn, VA), and CIT Strides Azure ER MAX Two 10G Layer 2 Ports and Transport.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm Fixed-Price Purchase for severable services.
- Period of Performance: Base Year from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027.
- Set-Aside: Sole-source procurement, restricted in accordance with FAR 12.102(a).
- Submission Deadline: Tuesday, April 28, 2026, no later than 11:00 am EST.
- Published Date: April 24, 2026.
- Place of Performance: Bethesda, MD 20814.
Submission & Evaluation
The Government intends to make a single fixed-price award based on technically acceptable quotations. Quotes must demonstrate the ability to meet technical requirements, show knowledge/experience, and contain detailed pricing. Required Quote Contents: A cover letter (including RFQ Number, TIN, UEI, Cage Code, Business size/designation, Point of Contact, Remit-to address), acknowledgment of any amendments, and pricing/discount terms. Submission Method: Via email to Kari Peterson (karina.peterson@hhs.gov) and Teferi Gebremariam (teferi.gebremariam@hhs.gov).
Additional Notes
This notice is not a request for competitive quotations, but responsible sources may submit a capability statement for consideration. Contractors must be registered and have a valid certification through SAM.gov. The NAICS code is 517111 with a business size standard of 1,500 employees. All correspondence should reference solicitation number 75N98026Q00256.