THIS IS A NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE AND NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTATION OR PROPOSAL. The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), Enterprise Services -Acquisition (ES-A), located in Washington, D.C., intends to negotiate on a sole-source basis to Nesta, 58 Victoria Embankment, London, United Kingdom. This acquisition is being conducted under the authority of permitting other than full and open competition, 41 U.S.C.3304(e), as implemented by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.106(b)(i) entitled, “Contracting officers may solicit from one source if the contracting officer determines that the circumstances of the contract action deem only one source reasonably available ( e.g. , urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand-name or industrial mobilization).” These services will be for a 12-month base period and two (2), 12-month option periods. The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), Economic Development Administration (EDA) was established under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3121), as amended, to generate jobs, help retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth in economically distressed areas of the United States. EDA aims to enhance its ability to evaluate the impact of interventions funded through its grant programs and generate evidence regarding the effectiveness of specific interventions and intervention categories. By doing so, EDA seeks to contribute to the existing body of literature and analysis available to development leaders, practitioners, and project implementers involved in fostering economic growth through technology-centric innovation and entrepreneurship. The Innovation Growth Lab by Nesta focuses on generating evidence and knowledge about effective innovation and entrepreneurship policies and programs. It aims to evaluate interventions, understand their impact, and contribute to the understanding of what works in promoting innovation-led growth. The Innovation Growth Lab by Nesta’s research and insights inform policy makers, practitioners, and funders in designing and implementing effective interventions to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. With membership in the Innovation Growth Lab by Nesta, the EDA will gain access to a comprehensive suite of services designed to address specific innovations and growth needs. EDA believes that participating in collaborative knowledge exchange, rigorous research, and receiving expert advice will equip the EDA with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate present barriers to innovation. By optimizing our innovation agenda, the EDA will be better positioned to drive sustainable growth and remain at the forefront of economic development. This is NOT a solicitation for quotations, quotation abstracts, a request for competitive quotations; or request for competitive proposals; however, all responses received within 15 days from the date of publication of this synopsis will be considered by the Government. Responses must clearly and thoroughly defend any claims or assertions that attempt to refute the Government’s claim. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed action based upon responses to this notice is solely with the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Information received on this notice must eliminate the Government's concerns for required services. If no affirmative responses are received within 15 days of this notice to determine whether a qualified source is more advantageous to the Government, a contract will be issued to Nesta. There is no solicitation package available. Any questions regarding this notice must be submitted in writing via email to
[email protected] or
[email protected].