VA awards $4.4M genomic analysis contract to Infinity Biologix LLC for one year

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $4,399,954 ($4.4M)

Contractor: Infinity Biologix LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2024-09-30

End Date: 2025-09-29

Contract Duration: 364 days

Daily Burn Rate: $12.1K/day

Competition Type: NOT COMPETED

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: GENOMIC ANALYSIS

Place of Performance

Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA County, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 20420

State: District of Columbia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $4.4 million to INFINITY BIOLOGIX LLC for work described as: GENOMIC ANALYSIS Key points: 1. Contract value appears reasonable for specialized genomic analysis services. 2. Sole-source award limits opportunities for competitive pricing and innovation. 3. Short contract duration may indicate a pilot program or evolving needs. 4. Focus on genomic analysis aligns with VA's increasing investment in personalized medicine. 5. Geographic concentration in Washington D.C. may limit broader accessibility.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value of approximately $4.4 million for a one-year period for genomic analysis services seems within a reasonable range for specialized laboratory testing. However, without specific details on the scope of services, the number of tests, or the complexity of the genomic analysis required, a precise value-for-money assessment is challenging. Benchmarking against similar contracts for genomic analysis is difficult due to the proprietary nature of such services and the variability in testing methodologies and targets. The absence of competition further complicates a thorough price assessment.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: sole-source

This contract was awarded on a sole-source basis, meaning that Infinity Biologix LLC was the only vendor considered. This approach bypasses the standard competitive bidding process, which typically involves soliciting proposals from multiple qualified contractors. While sole-source awards can be justified in specific circumstances, such as when only one vendor possesses the required unique capabilities or when urgency precludes competition, they generally lead to less favorable pricing and reduced opportunities for innovation compared to full and open competition.

Taxpayer Impact: Sole-source awards can result in higher costs for taxpayers as the government does not benefit from the price reductions typically achieved through competitive bidding. This limits the government's ability to secure the best possible value for public funds.

Public Impact

Veterans will benefit from advanced genomic analysis, potentially leading to more personalized and effective healthcare treatments. The services delivered will support diagnostic and research efforts within the Department of Veterans Affairs. The primary geographic impact is concentrated in Washington D.C., where the services will be rendered or managed. The contract may support a specialized workforce in genomic analysis and bioinformatics.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of competition raises concerns about potential overpricing and limited vendor pool.
Short contract duration could indicate uncertainty in program requirements or a need for future re-competition.
Limited public information on the specific genomic analysis being performed hinders transparency.

Positive Signals

Focus on genomic analysis aligns with VA's strategic goals for improving veteran healthcare.
Award to a specialized firm suggests access to advanced technological capabilities.
Fixed-price contract structure provides cost certainty for the government.

Sector Analysis

The genomic analysis sector is a rapidly growing and highly specialized area within the broader healthcare and life sciences industry. It involves the study of an organism's complete set of DNA, known as the genome. This field is critical for advancements in personalized medicine, disease diagnosis, drug development, and understanding complex biological processes. The market is characterized by significant R&D investment, technological innovation, and a need for highly skilled personnel. Federal spending in this area is increasing as agencies like the VA recognize its potential to improve health outcomes for specific populations.

Small Business Impact

This contract was not set aside for small businesses, and there is no indication of subcontracting requirements for small businesses. The award to Infinity Biologix LLC, a single entity, does not directly address small business participation. Without specific set-aside provisions or subcontracting goals, the direct impact on the small business ecosystem for this particular contract is likely minimal, though larger prime contractors often engage small businesses for specialized services in other contexts.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will primarily be managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs contracting officers and program managers. Accountability measures are typically embedded within the contract terms, including performance standards and delivery schedules. Transparency is limited due to the sole-source nature and the proprietary aspects of genomic analysis. The Inspector General's office within the VA may conduct audits or investigations if specific concerns regarding waste, fraud, or abuse arise.

Related Government Programs

VA Precision Medicine Initiative
Genomic Data Services
Biotechnology Research and Development
Clinical Laboratory Services

Risk Flags

Sole-source award limits competition.
Lack of detailed service scope hinders value assessment.
Potential for higher costs due to lack of competition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $4.4 million to INFINITY BIOLOGIX LLC. GENOMIC ANALYSIS

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is INFINITY BIOLOGIX LLC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Veterans Affairs (Department of Veterans Affairs).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $4.4 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2024-09-30. End: 2025-09-29.

What is the specific scope of genomic analysis services being procured under this contract?

The provided data does not specify the exact scope of genomic analysis services. However, given the contractor's specialization (Infinity Biologix LLC) and the agency (Department of Veterans Affairs), it is likely related to diagnostic testing, personalized treatment strategies, or research into conditions affecting veterans. This could include whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, targeted gene panels, or other advanced molecular diagnostic techniques. The specific application would determine the complexity, turnaround time, and cost per analysis. Further details would typically be found in the contract's statement of work (SOW).

How does the $4.4 million contract value compare to similar genomic analysis contracts awarded by federal agencies?

Benchmarking the $4.4 million contract value for a one-year genomic analysis contract is challenging without more specific details on the services rendered. Genomic analysis can range significantly in cost depending on the type of sequencing (whole genome, exome, targeted), the depth of coverage, the specific genes or regions analyzed, and the associated bioinformatics and interpretation services. Contracts for large-scale genomic initiatives or research projects can run into tens or hundreds of millions of dollars. However, for a specific set of diagnostic tests or a defined research cohort, $4.4 million for a year's worth of services could be considered moderate to high, especially given the sole-source nature which may inflate the price compared to a competitively bid contract.

What are the primary risks associated with a sole-source award for specialized genomic analysis services?

The primary risks associated with a sole-source award for specialized genomic analysis services include: 1. **Higher Costs:** Without competition, the contractor may not be incentivized to offer the lowest possible price, potentially leading to overspending. 2. **Limited Innovation:** The absence of multiple bidders reduces the opportunity to explore innovative approaches or technologies that other vendors might offer. 3. **Vendor Lock-in:** The agency may become dependent on a single vendor, making it difficult to switch providers even if performance issues arise or better alternatives become available. 4. **Reduced Transparency:** Sole-source justifications can sometimes obscure the true value proposition and market price for the services.

What is Infinity Biologix LLC's track record with federal contracts, particularly with the Department of Veterans Affairs?

The provided data indicates this is a contract awarded to Infinity Biologix LLC by the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, it does not provide historical contract data, such as previous awards, performance history, or past issues. To assess Infinity Biologix LLC's track record, one would need to consult federal procurement databases (like SAM.gov or FPDS) for a comprehensive history of their awards, contract values, agencies served, and any reported performance evaluations or disputes. Without this additional information, it's impossible to comment on their specific track record.

How does this contract align with the VA's broader strategy for leveraging genomic data in healthcare?

This contract aligns with the VA's increasing focus on precision medicine and personalized healthcare for veterans. The VA has been investing in initiatives to utilize genomic data to tailor treatments, predict disease risk, and improve health outcomes. By procuring genomic analysis services, the VA is acquiring the necessary capabilities to support these strategic goals. This could involve analyzing genetic predispositions to certain diseases prevalent in the veteran population, identifying optimal drug therapies based on individual genetic profiles, or contributing to research efforts aimed at understanding the long-term health impacts of military service.

What are the potential implications of this contract for the broader genomic analysis market and competition?

The sole-source nature of this $4.4 million contract implies limited immediate impact on broader market competition, as it does not introduce new players or stimulate a competitive bidding process. However, it does signal the Department of Veterans Affairs' demand for specific genomic analysis capabilities. If Infinity Biologix LLC performs well, it could strengthen their position in the federal market. Conversely, if the VA later decides to compete this requirement, it could open the door for other firms, potentially driving down costs and fostering innovation. The long-term implication depends on whether this contract is a precursor to a larger, competed requirement or an ongoing sole-source arrangement.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services › Testing Laboratories and Services

Product/Service Code: MEDICAL SERVICES › LABORATORY TESTING SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: NOT COMPETED

Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 30 KNIGHTSBRIDGE RD, PISCATAWAY, NJ, 08854

Business Categories: Category Business, Limited Liability Corporation, Not Designated a Small Business, Partnership or Limited Liability Partnership, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $4,399,954

Exercised Options: $4,399,954

Current Obligation: $4,399,954

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 36C24E20D0028

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline