Sources Sought - Shipboard Culinary Training Providers

This is not a solicitation announcement. This is a Sources Sought Synopsis only. The purpose of this synopsis is to gain knowledge of potential qualified sources and their size classification (Hubzone, 8(a), small, small disadvantage, veteran owned, women owned or service disabled veteran owned small business) relative to NAICS code 611519 (size standard $16.5 Million) for Culinary Art Schools (Other Technical and Trade Schools). Written responses to this synopsis will be used by the Government to make appropriate acquisitions decisions. After review of the responses to this Sources Sought Synopsis, a solicitation announcement may be published in SAM.gov. Responses to this Sources Sought Synopsis are not considered adequate responses to a possible future solicitation announcement. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Marine Operations is seeking sources for a potential contractor to provide basic and advanced shipboard culinary training for NOAA stewards and cooks. The vendor should be able to provide a training facility appropriate for culinary education, with special emphasis/experience regarding the challenges related to shipboard work. The vendor should also provide all supplies and equipment required for a class of up to 5 students. The intended contract period could cover several months with several classes throughout as crews become available. Depending on the market and availability, NOAA may consider a contracting vehicle with a period of performance that covers several years, so allow additional training in the future. Vendors that provide both scheduled, established and/or custom courses are welcomed to respond. Responses to this notice shall be e-mailed to the attention of Joel Heisler at joel.heisler@noaa.gov. Telephone responses will not be accepted. Responses must be received in writing no later than 5:00pm PST, July 30th, 2021. This notice is to assist NOAA in determining sources only. A solicitation is not currently available. If a solicitation is issued it will be announced at a later date, and all interested parties must respond to that solicitation announcement separately from the responses to this announcement. Responses to this sources sought is not a request to be added to a prospective bidders list or to receive a copy of the solicitation. If an Offeror proposes to use any subcontractors, joint ventures, or teaming arrangements the Offeror shall include the percentage and type of work the subcontractor will accomplish to include their certifications. (Any subcontractors, joint ventures, or teaming partners shall have the required certifications as described in the sources sought notice) Important information: The Government is not obligated to nor will it pay for or reimburse any costs associated with responding to this sources sought synopsis request. This notice shall not be construed as a commitment by the Government to issue a solicitation or ultimately award a contract, nor does it restrict the Government to a particular acquisition approach. The Government will in no way be bound to this information if any solicitation is issued. No sub-contracting opportunity is anticipated. Notice to potential offerors: All offerors who provide goods or services to the United States Federal Government must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) at www.sam.gov and in order to be eligible for award, the registration must be active and includes representations and certifications.