Thermally Insulating Waveguide

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking information from industry to assess the availability and capability of small and other-than-small businesses to supply thermally insulating rectangular waveguides for use in power measurement systems at its Boulder, Colorado facility. This sources sought notice, identified as NB672010-26-01964, is strictly for market research and does not constitute a solicitation, obligation, or commitment to award a contract. Respondents are required to submit responses by July 20, 2026, containing specific details including company information, validation of small business status under NAICS code 334515, active SAM.gov registration, and suggestions for improving the draft specifications to enhance competition. Responses are limited to ten pages excluding the cover page and standard commercial pricing information, and must be submitted in Word or PDF format with 12-point font. Companies are encouraged to provide catalog pricing to assist NIST in determining fair market value and to recommend evaluation factors for any future solicitation, but proposals for the product itself are not accepted and will be disregarded. Small businesses must confirm their ability to comply with FAR clause 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting, if the acquisition proceeds as a total small business set-aside, and all teeming arrangements must include full information for each participating entity. Respondents are also asked to disclose whether they hold a GSA Multiple Award Schedule contract or other federal contract through which NIST could procure the item. NIST will use all submitted information solely for market research purposes to shape a future acquisition strategy, which may result in a solicitation posted on SAM.gov or GSA eBuy. No obligation is incurred by NIST to award a contract, compensate respondents, or provide feedback on submissions, and information shared may be used in any manner deemed legally appropriate. Late submissions may not be considered, and proprietary or classified content must not be included in any response.