Inactive Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)

The U.S. Department of Education (ED), Office of Communications and Outreach (OCO) intends to award a sole source contract to Amanda Palleschi for writing services using simplified acquisition procedu... The U.S. Department of Education (ED), Office of Communications and Outreach (OCO) intends to award a sole source contract to Amanda Palleschi for writing services using simplified acquisition procedures. ED requires short-term writing support for high-level communications such as speeches, official statements, and other critical messaging. Written products must reflect a deep understanding of the agency’s mission, priorities, and strategic goals. The award will be a short-term contract awarded in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation 13.106-1(b), only one source reasonably available. The period of performance is 6-weeks total, from December 9, 2024 to January 16, 2025. The vendor has unique experience supporting ED via contract since January 2024. Awarding a new contract to this individual ensures continuity in tone, style, and messaging. Transitioning to a new contractor would disrupt this consistency and require significant onboarding and adaptation. In addition, the contractor is already familiar with ED thus eliminating a learning curve and associated costs, offering a cost-effective solution compared to onboarding a new contractor. Based on the factors outlined here, awarding a sole source contract is in the best interest of the agency. This decision ensures the timely delivery of critical communication services, maintains continuity and quality, and avoids unnecessary costs and delays. There will be no written solicitation issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations. However, all responsible sources may submit a capability statement for consideration by the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct a full and open competitive procurement. The Government will not pay for any information received in response to this announcement. Information submitted will not be returned to the respective respondents. Oral submissions of information are not acceptable and will not be accepted in response to this notice. Responses are due via e-mail no later than 12/02/2024, 10:00 am, Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Gary.Weaver@ed.gov.