Microscope Imaging System

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS or Department) seeks to obtain competitive bids for the purchase of one (1) compound microscope imaging system to support high-resolution viewing and analysis of agricultural pests. This Invitation to Bid (ITB) and all activities leading toward the anticipated issuance of a purchase order are conducted pursuant and subject to Chapter 287, Florida Statutes (F.S.), and Rule Chapter 60A-1, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.).

The Department intends to make a single award or to make no award, as determined to be in the best interest of the State.

This ITB requests the purchase and delivery of one (1) compound microscope imaging system capable of high-resolution imaging of small agricultural pests, including specimens measuring less than 100 micrometers. The system shall include XYZ stacking and stitching functionality, advanced DIC and phase-contrast optics, integrated imaging software, and a compatible imaging workstation.

The Contractor shall provide all equipment, components and software necessary to furnish a complete and fully functional microscope imaging system. Detailed technical specifications and required components are outlined in Appendix I – Product Specifications.

In addition to delivery, the Contractor shall provide on-site installation of the microscope imaging system at the designated FDACS facility listed in Section 2.3, Delivery Instructions. Installation shall include all configuration, calibration, and verification necessary to ensure that the system is fully operational in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and the requirements of this ITB.

The Contractor shall also provide comprehensive on-site training for designated FDACS personnel. Training shall cover system operation, imaging software functionality, maintenance procedures, and any other instruction needed to ensure FDACS staff can independently and effectively utilize the complete imaging system.

Delivery

Delivery of all items shall be to the: Division of Plant Industry, 1911 SW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL, 32608. Delivery must be no later than **June 30, 2027**. Price for delivery of the system as specified, shall be included in the FIRM FIXED UNIT PRICE.

Submission

Bids may be sent by U.S. mail, courier, overnight or hand delivered to: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 407 S. Calhoun Street, SB-8 Mayo Building, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0800. Electronic (email/fax) submission of bids will not be accepted for the ITB. All bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope/package with the relevant ITB number clearly marked on the outside of the envelope/package. Late bids will not be accepted.

Evaluation

An award shall be made to the responsive and responsible vendor with the lowest Grand Total Price, as specified in *Attachment B - Price Sheet*.

Required forms

• Vendors must include *Attachment A – FDACS Acknowledgement Form*, with their bid submission.
• Vendor shall complete, sign, and return *Attachment B - Price Sheet*.
• Any vendor submitting a response to this ITB MUST complete and sign form FDACS-01522, *Attachment C*, and enclose it with its bid.
• *Attachment D – Forced Labor Certification for Commodities Purchases*, must be completed and included in its bid package.

Warranty and term

A manufacturer’s warranty is required on all items purchased [...] for a period of not less than 365 calendar days from the date of acceptance by the Department. Any submitted bid shall remain valid for 90 calendar days from the bid submission date.

Bid opening

Public bid opening: November 17, 2026, 9:30 AM ET, Mayo Building, 407 S. Calhoun Street, SB-8, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0800, or by teleconference at (877) 273-4202, Conference Room Number 585 608 901.