Request For Information: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Centers of Excellence (COEs) Phase XI Basic Ordering Agreements

The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate is seeking input on the establishment of a Basic Ordering Agreement to support its Centers of Excellence in research, analysis, and technical services—both unclassified and classified—as well as specialized science and engineering education and training programs. The agreement will be awarded to the current and future lead university for each Center of Excellence, with the potential for two renewals after five-year performance periods, contingent upon demonstrated progress in research, development, testing, evaluation, and educational outcomes. The Office of University Programs will evaluate university capabilities against DHS’s highest priority needs to determine eligibility and alignment, ensuring that resources are directed toward the most critical homeland security challenges. This procurement focuses on Phase XI of the COE BOAs and encompasses five key thrust areas: the Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Awareness and Localization of Explosives-Related Threats, the Borders, Trade, and Immigration Institute, the Critical Infrastructure Resilience Institute, and the Coastal Resilience Center. Responses to this request for information are due by August 14, 2026, and the solicitation is not set aside for small or specialized businesses, with primary point of contact information provided for inquiries.