Examination and Attorney Assistant Examination Quality Review
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 U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), under the Department of Commerce, is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) for its "Examination and Attorney Assistant Examination Quality Review" requirement. The USPTO seeks advanced technology solutions, particularly those leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and natural language processing, to enhance trademark examination processes. Responses to the Stage One Questionnaire are due by May 6, 2026.
Scope of Work
The USPTO is seeking vendor capabilities in several key areas to improve efficiency, accuracy, and quality in trademark examination:
- Search Strategy: Automating the review of search strategies and flagging deficiencies.
- Issue Spotting: Identifying formalities, statutory compliance issues, and potential refusals.
- Office Action Drafting & Review: Assisting in drafting and reviewing office actions for completeness and adherence to procedures.
- Quality Review Automation: Automating quality reporting and creating a portal for case review delivery.
- AI/ML Solutions: Providing FedRAMP certified (or in work) AI/ML driven solutions that are scalable, secure, and transparent ("not black box").
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Purpose: To understand market capabilities and vendor interest; not a solicitation for a contract.
- Response Due (Stage One Questionnaire): May 6, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Questions Due: April 22, 2026
- Published: April 8, 2026
Eligibility & Evaluation
- Eligibility: Vendors must be FedRAMP certified or "in work" for certification. This certification must be submitted with the response.
- Evaluation: Responses will be reviewed to determine which vendors are most likely to meet the agency's needs. This is not a formal evaluation for a contract award. The USPTO may utilize an Alternative Competition Method (PTAG 6.1.1) in future stages.
Additional Notes
This RFI is the first stage of a potential multi-staged market research process. It is not a request for proposals or a commitment to contract. No reimbursement will be provided for response costs.