Notice of Intent to Award a Sole Source to Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies dba SANS

The Food and Drug Administration plans to award a sole source firm-fixed price commercial purchase order to the Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies, Inc., operating as SANS Institute, which is the exclusive provider of SANS training and Global Information Assurance Certification credentials. This action is based on SANS being the only entity capable of delivering the required cybersecurity training and certification services that meet the FDA’s specific technical and accreditation standards. The procurement is not subject to any set-aside requirements and falls under NAICS code 611420 for Other Technical and Trade Schools. The purchase order will be executed to ensure the FDA maintains access to industry-leading cybersecurity education and certification for its personnel. The solicitation number is NOI-135419, posted on August 6, 2026, with a response deadline of August 20, 2026. The contract will be administered by the FDA under the Department of Health and Human Services, with performance taking place in Rockville, Maryland, and the primary point of contact is Janice Heard, reachable via email or phone. The notice is published on SAM.gov to allow for public notice and potential objections prior to award, though no competition is anticipated due to the sole source nature of the requirement. All deliverables will be governed by the firm-fixed price structure, ensuring cost predictability and alignment with commercial market rates.