Proposed Sole‑Source Purchase of Two SmartFeed Pro Mobile Precision Feeding Units for Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University is seeking approval for a sole‑source purchase of two SmartFeed Pro feeding units, each mounted on a 10‑foot trailer, to support beef cattle nutrition research at the Brown Loam Branch Experiment Station. The system provides mobile, solar‑powered, data‑enabled precision feeding and intake monitoring, including a powered door, cellular modem, and hydraulic lift for transport. The university argues that C‑Lock is the only manufacturer holding the necessary patents and that no comparable mobile system exists on the market. The total estimated cost is $76,300, funded partially by the MSU EQUIP MAFES competitive funding program. • Equipment: Two SmartFeed Pro units on 10‑ft trailers (mobile precision feeding). • Purpose: Enable controlled feed delivery and real‑time intake data collection for cattle nutrition studies. • Vendor: C‑Lock (sole patent holder for the required technology). • Funding: $76,300 total; partial support from MSU EQUIP MAFES program. • Procurement Process: Proposed sole‑source; objections must be submitted to the Director of Procurement Services.