The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking market research from qualified firms to perform comprehensive appraisal, documentation, and evaluation of American Indian/Alaska Native cultural artifacts held by the federal government. The contractor will examine roughly 75 unique items (rugs, weavings, quilts, pottery, baskets, etc.) stored at the IHS facility in Rockville, MD, enter detailed records into the Personal Material Inventory System (PMIS), and provide recommendations for preservation, security, and display. This is a Sources Sought/RFI, not a binding solicitation; responses are voluntary and will be used to shape a future contract and determine any small‑business set‑aside.
• Location: 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD (≈75 artifacts, with additional items expected annually)
• Scope: Examination, photographic documentation, condition assessment, valuation, entry into PMIS, and preservation recommendations
• Required expertise: Knowledge of AI/AN cultural artifacts, appraisal methods, and culturally appropriate stewardship
• Submission: Email capability statement to
[email protected] by 5:00 pm EDT, October 8 2026 (subject line “SSNAppraisal Services – Your Company Name”)
• Eligibility: Must be an Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE), Indian Economic Enterprise (IEE), small business, or Service‑Disabled Veteran‑Owned Small Business under the applicable NAICS (519210)
• Deliverables: Capability statement (≤15 pages) plus any required forms; no payment will be made for the response.