R699--Salem Telephone Switchboard Operators

Why This Matters

This is an explicit SDVOSB set-aside for telephone switchboard operator services at the Salem VA facility under NAICS 561421, meaning only SDVOSBs can compete — no open market competition. Posted April 10, 2026 as a presolicitation, the RFP window is imminent and early engagement with the CO now can shape your understanding of incumbent performance gaps and staffing requirements before the formal solicitation drops.

Recommended Action

Email Satasha Stewart at Satasha.Stewart@va.gov this week referencing solicitation 36C24626Q0239 — introduce your firm, confirm the anticipated RFP release date, and ask whether a site visit or capability statement submission is planned prior to solicitation.

Risk Assessment

NAICS 561421 (Telephone Answering Services) is a highly labor-intensive, low-margin service — an incumbent with existing staff and clearances at the Salem VA site will have a significant transition cost and continuity advantage. Staffing reliability and VA-specific compliance requirements (background checks, HIPAA, facility access) can strain a small firm if not scoped carefully.

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Source: SAM.gov Notice 36C24626Q0239 Confidence: 82% | NAICS: 561421 | Type: Presolicitation

Editor note: Review and approve before publishing. Verify CO contact, set-aside status, and timeline accuracy.