Artificial Intelligence Government Procurement Opportunities

The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently soliciting proposals for a substantial 5-year, $775 million IDIQ contract to provide a cloud-based AI ambient scribe SaaS solution, with responses due April 6, 2026. Concurrently, the U.S. Army is pursuing renewals for SmartBear software licenses under the JNDA program, with a response deadline of April 9, 2026. These solicitations underscore a focused government investment in AI software tools and cloud-based AI services.

Market Analysis

• The VA Technology Acquisition Center's solicitation (SAM #36C10B26R0006) for an AI ambient scribe SaaS solution is a significant IDIQ opportunity with a $775M ceiling, emphasizing cloud-based AI services for healthcare documentation.
• The U.S. Army's ITES-SW2 contract (#556998) involves renewing SmartBear software licenses, indicating ongoing demand for AI-enabled software testing tools within defense programs.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Vicksburg District is procuring specialized AI-driven bridge safety software (ITES-SW2 #558067), reflecting infrastructure asset management applications.
• The American Battle Monuments Commission is seeking support for Microsoft 365 Copilot deployment under SEWP V (#364012), highlighting AI integration within federal IT environments.
• The GSA Alliant 3 GWAC remains a key vehicle for federal AI IT solutions, though its current solicitation deadline passed in April 2025, contractors should monitor for follow-on opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What NAICS codes are relevant for AI government procurement opportunities?

The primary NAICS codes for AI-related government contracts are 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services) and 541519 (Other Computer Related Services). These cover software development, AI system integration, and related IT services.

How can I find current AI-related government solicitations?

Use federal procurement databases like SAM.gov and filter by keywords such as "AI procurement," "artificial intelligence RFP," or specific NAICS codes 541511 and 541519. Also monitor agency-specific portals like the VA Technology Acquisition Center and U.S. Army contracting offices.

Are there set-aside requirements for AI contracts?

Set-asides depend on the specific solicitation. For example, the VA's AI ambient scribe IDIQ does not specify a small business set-aside in the summary, but many ITES-SW2 contracts often include small business or SDVOSB set-asides. Always review the solicitation's terms for set-aside status.

What are typical solicitation types for AI procurements?

Common solicitation types include Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts, such as the VA's ambient scribe SaaS, and firm-fixed-price contracts for software license renewals like the Army's SmartBear licenses. GWAC vehicles like GSA Alliant 3 are also frequently used.

Who are incumbent contractors in AI government contracts?

Incumbents vary by contract. For example, SAIC manages the SmartBear license delivery for the Army JNDA program. Microsoft is involved in AI integration for the ABMC's Microsoft 365 Copilot deployment. Identifying incumbents requires reviewing contract award notices and agency procurement histories.