Tech Scouting, Vendor Scouting and Autonomy, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Infra Support

The Montana State University MilTech department has issued a solicitation for services related to technology scouting, vendor scouting, autonomy, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure support aimed at advancing product development and facilitating the transition of innovative technologies to the U.S. government and defense sectors. The contract, with an estimated value ranging from $500,000 to $2,000,000, emphasizes a service-oriented approach, requiring vendors to propose hourly rates for specific service categories rather than supply items. The RFP, posted on September 15, 2025, with a response deadline of October 22, 2025, mandates registration in the university’s SmartBuyMSU procurement system and submission of detailed narratives, references, and personnel qualifications, including resumes for key staff. Evaluation will consider experience, references, compliance with Montana’s Equal Pay Executive Order (which grants bonus points), and cost, with the award likely based on a best value/trade-off methodology. Supporting documentation referenced in the solicitation includes detailed scopes of work and evaluation criteria, though these are not included in the main contract files. The procurement process involves electronic routing via DocuSign, and the contract will incorporate federal and university-specific clauses covering export controls, security, intellectual property, insurance, and debarment. Notably, the contract does not specify explicit packaging, shipping, or inspection requirements, nor does it detail specific federal contract forms or delivery schedules beyond the proposal submission timeline. Vendors must submit a comprehensive proposal package in PDF format, including a narrative of relevant experience, references, personnel resumes, and a current W-9, with all communications directed to Cheri Toeniskoetter at Montana State University.