Notice of Intent to Award Sole-Source - SoFAR Branded Ocean surface spotter buoys

Announcement Number: 141014-25-0028

Project Title: SoFAR Branded Ocean surface spotter buoys and cables/accessories

PSC: 2050

NAICS: 334511

The US Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Eastern Acquisition Division, Simplified Acquisition Branch intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with SOFAR Ocean Technologies, Inc., using the procedures in FAR Part 13, to purchase SoFAR Branded Ocean surface spotter buoys and cables/accessories to assist in NOAA’s long-term monitoring efforts. This procurement is for four (4) SOFAR Spotter

buoys with two temperature nodes per mooring system, as well as Iridium satellite data packages that allow the spotter buoys to transmit data via iridium satellite in near real time. This purchase will allow sanctuaries to expand infrastructure into the expanded sanctuary while leveraging existing infrastructure. The statutory authority for other than full and open competition is FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i), Only one responsible source.

The North American Industry Classification Code (NAICS) for this acquisition is 334511, Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing, with a business size standard of 1,350 employees.

This is not a solicitation for competitive quotes, nor will one be posted on the Contract Opportunities website.

The determination by the Government not to compete this proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. However, if any interested party believes that it is capable of meeting the requirements, and in an effort to comply with the requirements outlined in FAR 5.102, a firm may request an electronic copy of the solicitation from the Contract Specialist, Randall Chatfield, randall.chatfield@noaa.gov

All electronic correspondence shall have the subject line read: Announcement Number: 141014-25-0028.

All responsible sources may submit a Capability Statement and/or a quote in accordance with the solicitation, which may be considered by the agency if received on or before 12:00 PM EST on May 26, 2025. The Capability Statement must contain material in sufficient detail to allow NOAA to determine if the party can meet all of the requirements.

This notice will remain open from May 9, 2025 to May 26, 2025.