Request for Information (RFI) - Artificial Intelligence for Image Adjudication

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, through its Border Enforcement Contracting Division and Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) titled "Request for Information (RFI) - Artificial Intelligence for Image Adjudication" under solicitation number RFQ2026 to explore industry capabilities in AI and machine learning for enhancing Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) image analysis. This RFI is strictly for market research and planning purposes, with no intention to form a binding contract or issue a formal solicitation at this stage. The goal is to identify AI/ML tools capable of supporting human-in-the-loop adjudication of NII scans by automating anomaly detection, identifying conveyance modifications, validating manifests, detecting narcotics and contraband, and verifying commodities, with a focus on high-volume scanning of private vehicles and cargo. Respondents are expected to provide algorithmic components that can integrate into existing CBP-owned platforms and viewers, not proprietary data systems or case management software. Submissions must include a company information page with legal entity details such as name, UEI, CAGE code, DUNS number, socio-economic status, and federal contract availability, along with technical and contractual points of contact, and must be submitted electronically in Word or PDF format, not exceeding fifteen pages and ten megabytes per file. All responses must be sent via email to the designated points of contact by the deadline of May 30, 2026, with proper subject line formatting indicating submission details. Responses are voluntary, and respondents assume full responsibility for all associated costs. No formal evaluation criteria, contract clauses, delivery schedules, or pricing structures are included because this RFI is not a procurement action; it is a preliminary step to assess market readiness and technological feasibility. Access to CBP systems would require contractors to undergo a Background Investigation if future phases involve system integration or onsite collaboration. The place of performance is Washington, D.C., and the NAICS code for this effort is 541330. Questions were due by May 15, 2026, and responses are no longer being accepted as of the deadline.