ArmourGrid Inc. DBA.KUVRR with Five Digit Messaging - SSJF FY26.pdf

Sole Source Justification Form

Version 7.01 Page 1 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

Sole Source Justification Form - Part I Section I - General Information

Department/Bureau/Section: Illinois State Police/Division of Criminal Investigation/Statewide Terrorism & Intelligence Center (STIC)

Need Identified Date: 02/25/2025 Supply/Service Need By Date: 07/24/2025

Project Title: Safe 2 Help Illinois 5-digit short code and messaging component

Vendor: ArmourGrid Incorporated DBA: KUVRR

Provide a description of the supplies or services required:

The Illinois State Police aims to secure a five-year contract with ArmourGrid Incorporated, doing business as KUVRR. This contract will maintain the Safe2Help Program's access to KUVRR's NOTIFY platform at a significantly reduced cost.

The NOTIFY platform provides a one-on-one, two-way multimedia messaging service (MMS) designed to receive, process, and analyze Short Message Service (SMS) text messages. This service is intended for students, parents, school officials, and the general public, enabling them to report incidents of self-harm and threats to others through the Safe2Help Illinois program.

To ensure the security of both incoming and outgoing communications, the service must include a dedicated short code. Additionally, it must continue to be custom-configured to integrate with Sprigeo's School Safety Tip Line, which allows for the receiving and triaging of tips 24/7/365. This includes the capability for photo and video uploads, as well as two-way messaging.

The goal of this five-year contract is to secure the best possible pricing and to align with existing multi-year contracts for the Safe2Help program with Sprigeo (P-19406) and CallsPlus (P-35987). The contracts with Sprigeo and CallsPlus were renewed and will remain in effect until June 16, 2030.

Value: Actual Value of Initial Term, this Change Order or Amendment: 317,362.5

Will this Sole Source amend a Professional or Artistic Services contract? Yes No

*Sole Source may not be used for amendments for Professional or Artistic Services if the amendment would increase the value by more than 5% of the initial award or extend the term by more than 60 days.

Type: New Sole Economically Feasible Source

Version 7.01 Page 2 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

Section II - Proposed Term

One-Time Purchase Term Contract

Estimated Contract Begin Date: 07/24/2025

Estimated Contract End Date: 6/15/2030

Number of Potential Renewals:

Length of Each Renewal in Months:

Total Value of All Renewals:

If a Term Contract, does the term, including renewals, exceed 12 months? Yes No

If yes, provide a detailed justification including any economic benefit received for agreeing to a multi-year term:

A multi-year term contract directly with ArmourGrid Incorporated, doing business as KUVRR, is a strategic decision that provides both immediate and long-term economic benefits. It will help lock in pricing for the duration of the agreement, protecting the ISP from possible cost increases that may arise due to inflation, market demand, or vendor price adjustments. Committing to a multi-year agreement ensures that the vendor has a continuous incentive to enhance and maintain their product to meet our needs, thus reducing the risk of service degradation over time.

If approved, this multi-year contract is expected to save the state $20,547.50 each year, totaling $102,737.50 over the life of the contract compared to the previous agreement.

Section III - Funding Source Select the type of funding to be used (Check all that apply): State Appropriate Funds Federal Funds Other (Explain):

Section IV - Sole Source Justification

This purchase is economically only available from a single source primarily because it is: (If "Other" explain in one sentence)

Items are Copyrighted or Patented and the Items are Only Available from the Holder. KUVRR NOTIFY platform, 5 digit short code (SAFE2)

Are there secondary justification(s) for this sole source? Yes No

Version 7.01 Page 3 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

Section V - Purchase History

Has the Agency or University Purchased these supplies or services in the past? Yes No

Term Term From Term To Value Description Contract Number Type

1 Jul 24, 2024 Jul 23, 2025 71,139

Multipath Data Inc. for the access of the KUVRR Communication Software one-time fixed cost per year and KUVRR Communications Software Total number of messages (received/sent)/ year Up to 50,000

P-65818 Small Purchase

2 Jul 24, 2023 Jul 23, 2024 60,688

Multipath Data Inc. for the access of the KUVRR Communication Software one-time fixed cost per year and KUVRR Communications Software Total number of messages (received/sent)/ year Up to 50,000

P-52263 Small Purchase

3 07/24/2022 Jul 23, 2023 64,125

Multipath Data Inc. for the access of the KUVRR Communication Software one-time fixed cost per year and KUVRR Communications Software Total number of messages (received/sent)/ year Up to 50,000

P-37422 Small Purchase

4 Aug 29, 2021 Jul 23, 2022 64,105

Multipath Data Inc. for the access of the KUVRR Communication Software one-time fixed cost per year and KUVRR Communications Software Total number of messages (received/sent)/ year Up to 50,000

P-29169 Small Purchase

5 Jul 24, 2020 Jul 23, 2021 60,688

Multipath Data Inc. for the access of KUVRR's Messaging service with dedicated vanity short code (5-Digit).

Unlimited receipt of external messages with send and receive functionality.

P-18312 Small Purchase

If more than 10, or if other comments, explain:

Section VI - Business Rationale

Version 7.01 Page 4 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

1. Provide a detailed explanation of the need for the supplies or services:

This purchase is for continued service and a 5-year contract for the KUVRR NOTIFY platform, 5 digit short code (SAFE2), and it's custom integration of the 5-digit multimedia messaging service (MMS) for students, parents, school officials, and general public to submit reports of self-harm and threats to others to the Safe2Help Illinois via text message with integration to the other technological components of the Safe2Help Illinois reporting systems.

The following components are included in the procurement:

Command n Control portal with 3 seat license. Additional text messages above 50,000 for a year

2. On-Going Upgrades and Maintenance - Regular upgrades, maintenance, patches and version alignments.

3. KUVRR Command and Control Licenses - Command and Control to review on-going communications.

4. Cloud Storage - Cloud storage for all incoming and outgoing messages.

5. Customer Support - On-going support via email (support@Kuvrr.com) and phone.

The MMS platform must allow for the receipt and distribution of 50,000 SMS texts with unlimited character count for all messages. Safe 2 Help Illinois is a confidential threat reporting program designed to enhance school safety for K-12 students in which the Illinois State Police (ISP) maintains operational control of. One mechanism of the reporting platform is the ability for students to send threat information to the system via 5 digit short text. The ISP currently utilizes the KUVRR platform and their 5-digit multimedia services (MMS) for students, parents, school officials, and general public to submit reports of self-harm and threats to others to the Safe2Help Illinois intake system (Sprigeo). The 5-digit short code number and configuration to the system was established under prior contract and must remain consistent due to marketing of the Safe2Help program to schools throughout Illinois.

KUVRR's unique short code (SAFE2) has been extensively marketed and integrated into school safety protocols statewide. Its continued functionality is paramount to maintaining consistency, reliability, and effectiveness in the Safe2Help Illinois initiative. Any disruption or modification to this short code could severely impact the ability of individuals to report safety concerns in a timely manner, potentially jeopardizing student safety. ISP was recently made aware that KUVRR was also the vendor used by IEMA through an IGA with Western Illinois University to provide the 5-digit short code (SAFE2). The ISP is consolidating this with the KUVRR short code MMS service. KUVRR agreed to absorb the short code, thus absolving the $14,380 annual fee to use the code SAFE2. Previously these were two separate services both provided by KUVRR to two separate state agencies (ISP and WIU/IEMA). The consolidation of this and direct purchase from KUVRR will result in significant cost savings detailed below.

2. Provide a list and describe in detail the specifications required to satisfy the need:

KUVRR NOTIFY platform, 5 digit short code, and custom integrated 5-digit short messaging component custom configured to integrate with the Sprigeo Safe2Help Illinois intake system.

Version 7.01 Page 5 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

3. Provide detail explaining the justification selected in Section IV to explain why the requested supplies or services are the only ones available that can satisfy the agency or university requirements?

In 2021 when the Safe 2 Help Illinois program was mandated by statute (5 ILCS 860/) Student Confidential Reporting Act.), a 5 digit messaging service component was required to be custom integrated into Sprigeo. Sprigeo is the essential software system, under a multi-year contract, that manages all tips and communication channels for law enforcement and participating school districts. Notably, KUVRR developed and custom integrated a 5-digit short code (SAFE2) and messaging service component that accounts for over 40% of the tip volume received by Safe2Help, highlighting its critical importance.

When the program was developed, there was a need for a platform capable of receiving, processing, and analyzing Short Message Service (SMS) text messages. In 2021, KUVRR successfully created a solution that included a custom integration with Sprigeo's Safe2Help Illinois intake processes which is still in use today. KUVRR achieved this by purchasing a five-digit short code (SAFE2) from Twilio Incorporated, which allows them to receive and process a high volume of SMS messages.

Since the program's inception, the Illinois State Police has managed the messaging services contract. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and Western Illinois, which is responsible for the program's marketing, handled the leasing of the short code (SAFE2) purchased by KUVRR. KUVRR developed this solution and is committed to maintaining its integration throughout the duration of the Sprigeo contract. They have successfully custom integrated the 5-digit short code with Sprigeo, creating a vital communication tool that has become integral to the operations of Safe2Help Illinois.

In summary, For the past five years, IEMA/Western Illinois University has promoted and marketed the five-digit short code owned/ managed by KUVRR as the primary reporting tool. The short code is embedded in school safety training programs, educational materials, state/private websites, and outreach campaigns. Changing the short code and custom messaging service integration to Sprigeo would require a costly and time-consuming re-branding effort, which could lead to confusion, decreased tip submissions, and a direct decline in the program’s effectiveness. Schools, students, and law enforcement agencies have been trained to use this number, so any modification could undermine the system's trust and reliability posing a threat to life for students throughout Illinois.

Version 7.01 Page 6 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

4. What are the unique features of the supplies or services that are not available in any other product or by any other vendor? Provide specific quantifiable factors/qualifications:

The KUVRR NOTIFY platform is equipped with a robust 5-digit multimedia messaging service (MMS) specifically designed for students, parents, school officials, and the general public to promptly report incidents of self-harm and threats to others via text messages. This service seamlessly integrates with the Safe2Help Illinois reporting systems, ensuring maximum effectiveness. The MMS platform guarantees the receipt and distribution of text messages without any character restrictions, making it highly efficient for all users.

Safe2Help Illinois operates as a critical and confidential threat reporting program for K-12 students under the direct oversight of the Illinois State Police (ISP). A primary feature of our reporting platform empowers students to send threat information directly to the system using a 5-digit short code. The ISP utilizes the KUVRR NOTIFY platform and its cutting-edge MMS service to efficiently manage and address reports of self-harm and threats through the Safe2Help Illinois system (Sprigeo). KUVRR guarantees uninterrupted access to the MMS service using a high-availability architecture, specifically designed for immediate threat reporting.

The KUVRR platform is fortified with failover mechanisms that eliminate downtime and prevent message loss, ensuring that reports are received in real time, even during emergencies. Notably, no other vendor possesses an MMS platform that is pre-integrated with Sprigeo's School Safety Tip Line, which operates 24/7/365 and can receive and triage tips, including photo and video uploads and two-way messaging.

For the past five years, the Illinois Safe2Help program has relied on KUVRR's custom-built platform without disruptions in service or support. Developing a comparable solution with a different provider would be a lengthy process that will result in significant delays and critical gaps in service. Such a transition will also introduce reliability issues and an increased risk of unprocessed or delayed threat reports. Any attempt to replace this provider will jeopardize the continuity of this life-saving program and result in unanswered school safety threats, putting students at risk of great bodily harm or death. The KUVRR platform, the established 5-digit short code, and the custom configuration tailored for Sprigeo under a prior contract must remain intact to effectively promote the Safe2Help program across schools in Illinois. We are committed to providing a secure and effective reporting solution.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)/Western Illinois University has actively promoted/mareketed KUVRR's unique short code "SAFE2," incorporating it into school safety protocols throughout the state. The Illinois Safe2Help program is a vital resource for 3,977 public schools and serves as an essential lifeline for 1,853,391 students enrolled in prekindergarten through 12th grade in Illinois.

Since its launch, the program has benefited over 882,900 students, and the number of tips reported through the program has increased by 50% each year since 2021. Any disruption of service could jeopardize this life-saving program, potentially leaving school safety threats unanswered and putting students at risk of severe harm or even death.

5. Has the Agency or University considered alternative supplies or services to satisfy their need? Yes No

5a. If no, why weren't alternatives evaluated?

The Illinois State Police has not considered alternative supplies or services because the required MMS platform was custom-built by KUVRR to function exclusively within the Safe2Help Illinois operational framework and its integration with Sprigeo. The custom integration, as originally procured, cannot be replaced mid-contract with other vendors of the Safe2Help Illinois program without causing significant risks to public safety. The original terms of the Sprigeo contract include a five-year term with an optional five years, which has already been executed.

Any disruption to this service would severely compromise the ability of students, parents, school officials, and the general public to report self-harm and school safety threats in real time. Maintaining continuity is paramount to ensuring that Safe2Help Illinois remains fully operational. Changing to a new service provider at this time would undoubtedly disrupt the program, causing significant operational and safety risks.

6. Are there resellers or distributors?

Yes No N/A

Version 7.01 Page 7 of 9

Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

7. What efforts were made to get the best possible price (i.e. did the agency/university negotiate) and how did you determine the price for this purchase is considered fair and reasonable?

To secure the best possible price, the ISP aims to eliminate the need for a third-party vendor to access KUVVR's platform services. The Illinois State Police STIC successfully negotiated a five-year quote directly from KUVRR for a total of $317,362.50, which breaks down to $63,472.50 per year. If approved, this multi-year contract is projected to save the state $20,547.50 each year, amounting to a total savings of $102,737.50 over the contract's duration compared to the previous agreement. This savings is inclusive of the discounted annual pricing for the KUVRR platform service in addition to including the short code annual fee of $14,380 into this consolidated quote.

1. KUVRR NOTIFY with custom connector developed for S2H program. Includes vanity Short Code for texting (SAFE2 or 72232) licensing and integration along with 50,000 text messages per year. Also includes Command n Control portal with 3 seat license. Additional text messages above 50,000 for a year are charged at $15 per 100 message pack. Cost: $63,472.50

2. On-Going Upgrades and Maintenance - Regular upgrades, maintenance, patches and version alignments. Cost: Included

3. KUVRR Command and Control Licenses - Command and Control to review on-going communications. Cost: Included

4. Cloud Storage - Cloud storage for all incoming and outgoing messages. Cost: Included

5. Customer Support - On-going support via email (support@Kuvrr.com) and phone. Cost: Included

8. Will this purchase obligate the State to this vendor for future purchases such as maintenance, licensing or continuing need?

Yes No

9. What will be the financial or other impact to the State if this sole source is not approved and a competitive bid is required?

If this sole source procurement is not approved, the State could face higher financial costs, unnecessary duplication of efforts, significant service disruptions, and serious risks to student safety. A competitive bid process at this stage would jeopardize the continuity of a life-saving program and could result in unanswered school safety threats, putting students at risk of great bodily harm or death.

10. Is there any additional information you would like to add to justify this sole source?

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Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

Section VII

Requesting Department Representative

Requesting Department Signature Required

I know and understand the contents of this Sole Source Justification and attest that all statements are true and correct and the fairness and reasonableness of the price was adequately confirmed.

Date Jun 23, 2025

Printed Name Adrian Guerrero E-mail Address adrian.guerrero@illinois.gov

Phone Number 815-216-1531

State Agency Bureau/Division Head or University Purchasing Director Approval and Signature Required

I know and understand the contents of this Sole Source Justification and attest that all statements are true and correct and the fairness and reasonableness of the price was adequately confirmed. (All prior form fields will lock once this e-signature is completed)

E-mail Address Amanda.Olinger@illinois.gov

Phone Number Date

Printed Name Amanda Olinger

Agency Bureau/Division Head or University Purchasing Director and Not a Designee

SPO Approval and Signature Required

I have reviewed and understand the contents of this Sole Source Justification and agree with the State Agency or University determination.

I have reviewed and understand the contents of this Sole Source Justification and do not agree with the State Agency or University determination. As a result, the State Agency or University must explore other sourcing methods to satisfy their need.

State Purchasing Officer Signature Phone Number 2176221908 Date

Printed Name Andrew Hennig E-mail Address Andrew.Hennig@illinois.gov

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Bulletin Reference Number 25-493ISP-FOREN-B-48409

Requesting Agency/University Illinois State Police

Sole Source Justification Form - Part II Section I - General Information

Project Title

Vendor

Initial Date of Procurement Bulletin Posting

Was a Sole Source hearing held per 30 ILCS 500/20-25?

Yes - Complete Section II and III below (Section II will only be visible when this option is selected)

No - Section II not required, go to Section III below Section III - CPO Approval and Signature Required

Based on my review, I authorize the Agency/University to proceed in accordance with the published Notice referenced above.

Based upon my review, I authorize the Agency/University to proceed with the following Changes.

Based on my review, the Agency/University is not authorized to proceed with this sole source as presented and my recommendation is that it be cancelled.

Other

CPO Signature CPO Phone 217.558.22.31

Printed Name Ellen H. Daley Date

CPO E-mail Ellen.H.Daley@illinois.gov

Version 7.01 Page of Sole Source Justification Form - Part I Section I - General Information Will this Sole Source amend a Professional or Artistic Services contract?

If yes, what was the original contract value?

*Sole Source may not be used for amendments for Professional or Artistic Services if the amendment would increase the value by more than 5% of the initial award or extend the term by more than 60 days.

Section II - Proposed Term If a Term Contract, does the term, including renewals, exceed 12 months?

If yes, provide a detailed justification including any economic benefit received for agreeing to a multi-year term:

Section III - Funding Source Select the type of funding to be used (Check all that apply):

Section IV - Sole Source Justification Are there secondary justification(s) for this sole source?

Section V - Purchase History Has the Agency or University Purchased these supplies or services in the past?

Term Term From Term To Value Description Contract Number Type Section VI - Business Rationale

1. Provide a detailed explanation of the need for the supplies or services:

2. Provide a list and describe in detail the specifications required to satisfy the need:

3. Provide detail explaining the justification selected in Section IV to explain why the requested supplies or services are the only ones available that can satisfy the agency or university requirements?

4. What are the unique features of the supplies or services that are not available in any other product or by any other vendor? Provide specific quantifiable factors/qualifications:

5. Has the Agency or University considered alternative supplies or services to satisfy their need?

5a. If yes, name the alternative vendors whose supplies or services were evaluated:

5b. If yes, what were the alternatives for each vendor and why were they unacceptable? Be specific with regard to features, characteristics, requirements, capabilities and compatibility:

5c. Explain how the market evaluation was conducted?

*This evaluation is to determine available options within a market. If the evaluation is to determine quality or best suited option, this is not the appropriate source selection. Under no circumstances shall the evaluation consist of testing alternative options. These activities must be conducted in a competitive transparent environment (i.e. IFB or RFP).

5a. If no, why weren't alternatives evaluated?

6. Are there resellers or distributors?

7. What efforts were made to get the best possible price (i.e. did the agency/university negotiate) and how did you determine the price for this purchase is considered fair and reasonable?

8. Will this purchase obligate the State to this vendor for future purchases such as maintenance, licensing or continuing need?

8a. If yes, please provide details regarding future obligations and/or needs:

9. What will be the financial or other impact to the State if this sole source is not approved and a competitive bid is required?

10. Is there any additional information you would like to add to justify this sole source?

Section VII Requesting Department Signature Required I know and understand the contents of this Sole Source Justification and attest that all statements are true and correct and the fairness and reasonableness of the price was adequately confirmed.

State Agency Bureau/Division Head or University Purchasing Director Approval and Signature Required I know and understand the contents of this Sole Source Justification and attest that all statements are true and correct and the fairness and reasonableness of the price was adequately confirmed. (All prior form fields will lock once this e-signature is completed) SPO Approval and Signature Required Sole Source Justification Form - Part II Section I - General Information Was a Sole Source hearing held per 30 ILCS 500/20-25?

Section II - Sole Source Hearing Details The State posted to the Illinois Procurement Bulletin a description of the State's need, the justification for the sole source decision, and information regarding the opportunity to submit comments and testify at a public hearing. Notice of the hearing was also posted outside of the hearing room 48 hours prior to the hearing.

The public hearing was conducted for the purpose of receiving testimony regarding the sole source determination. The Hearing Officer recommends the following:

The following relevant documents are attached:

Section III - CPO Approval and Signature Required 9.0.0.2.20101008.1.734229 Ellen.H.Daley@illinois.gov

The NOTIFY platform provides a one-on-one, two-way multimedia messaging service (MMS) designed to receive, process, and analyze Short Message Service (SMS) text messages. This service is intended for students, parents, school officials, and the general public, enabling them to report incidents of self-harm and threats to others through the Safe2Help Illinois program.

To ensure the security of both incoming and outgoing communications, the service must include a dedicated short code. Additionally, it must continue to be custom-configured to integrate with Sprigeo's School Safety Tip Line, which allows for the receiving and triaging of tips 24/7/365. This includes the capability for photo and video uploads, as well as two-way messaging.

The goal of this five-year contract is to secure the best possible pricing and to align with existing multi-year contracts for the Safe2Help program with Sprigeo (P-19406) and CallsPlus (P-35987). The contracts with Sprigeo and CallsPlus were renewed and will remain in effect until June 16, 2030.

If approved, this multi-year contract is expected to save the state $20,547.50 each year, totaling $102,737.50 over the life of the contract compared to the previous agreement.

The following components are included in the procurement:

Command n Control portal with 3 seat license. Additional text messages above 50,000 for a year

2. On-Going Upgrades and Maintenance - Regular upgrades, maintenance, patches and version alignments.

3. KUVRR Command and Control Licenses - Command and Control to review on-going communications.

4. Cloud Storage - Cloud storage for all incoming and outgoing messages.

5. Customer Support - On-going support via email (support@Kuvrr.com) and phone.

The MMS platform must allow for the receipt and distribution of 50,000 SMS texts with unlimited character count for all messages. Safe 2 Help Illinois is a confidential threat reporting program designed to enhance school safety for K-12 students in which the Illinois State Police (ISP) maintains operational control of. One mechanism of the reporting platform is the ability for students to send threat information to the system via 5 digit short text. The ISP currently utilizes the KUVRR platform and their 5-digit multimedia services (MMS) for students, parents, school officials, and general public to submit reports of self-harm and threats to others to the Safe2Help Illinois intake system (Sprigeo). The 5-digit short code number and configuration to the system was established under prior contract and must remain consistent due to marketing of the Safe2Help program to schools throughout Illinois.

KUVRR's unique short code (SAFE2) has been extensively marketed and integrated into school safety protocols statewide. Its continued functionality is paramount to maintaining consistency, reliability, and effectiveness in the Safe2Help Illinois initiative. Any disruption or modification to this short code could severely impact the ability of individuals to report safety concerns in a timely manner, potentially jeopardizing student safety. ISP was recently made aware that KUVRR was also the vendor used by IEMA through an IGA with Western Illinois University to provide the 5-digit short code (SAFE2). The ISP is consolidating this with the KUVRR short code MMS service. KUVRR agreed to absorb the short code, thus absolving the $14,380 annual fee to use the code SAFE2. Previously these were two separate services both provided by KUVRR to two separate state agencies (ISP and WIU/IEMA). The consolidation of this and direct purchase from KUVRR will result in significant cost savings detailed below.

When the program was developed, there was a need for a platform capable of receiving, processing, and analyzing Short Message Service (SMS) text messages. In 2021, KUVRR successfully created a solution that included a custom integration with Sprigeo's Safe2Help Illinois intake processes which is still in use today. KUVRR achieved this by purchasing a five-digit short code (SAFE2) from Twilio Incorporated, which allows them to receive and process a high volume of SMS messages.

Since the program's inception, the Illinois State Police has managed the messaging services contract. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and Western Illinois, which is responsible for the program's marketing, handled the leasing of the short code (SAFE2) purchased by KUVRR. KUVRR developed this solution and is committed to maintaining its integration throughout the duration of the Sprigeo contract. They have successfully custom integrated the 5-digit short code with Sprigeo, creating a vital communication tool that has become integral to the operations of Safe2Help Illinois.

In summary, For the past five years, IEMA/Western Illinois University has promoted and marketed the five-digit short code owned/managed by KUVRR as the primary reporting tool. The short code is embedded in school safety training programs, educational materials, state/private websites, and outreach campaigns. Changing the short code and custom messaging service integration to Sprigeo would require a costly and time-consuming re-branding effort, which could lead to confusion, decreased tip submissions, and a direct decline in the program’s effectiveness. Schools, students, and law enforcement agencies have been trained to use this number, so any modification could undermine the system's trust and reliability posing a threat to life for students throughout Illinois.

Q4Answer: The KUVRR NOTIFY platform is equipped with a robust 5-digit multimedia messaging service (MMS) specifically designed for students, parents, school officials, and the general public to promptly report incidents of self-harm and threats to others via text messages. This service seamlessly integrates with the Safe2Help Illinois reporting systems, ensuring maximum effectiveness. The MMS platform guarantees the receipt and distribution of text messages without any character restrictions, making it highly efficient for all users.

Safe2Help Illinois operates as a critical and confidential threat reporting program for K-12 students under the direct oversight of the Illinois State Police (ISP). A primary feature of our reporting platform empowers students to send threat information directly to the system using a 5-digit short code. The ISP utilizes the KUVRR NOTIFY platform and its cutting-edge MMS service to efficiently manage and address reports of self-harm and threats through the Safe2Help Illinois system (Sprigeo). KUVRR guarantees uninterrupted access to the MMS service using a high-availability architecture, specifically designed for immediate threat reporting.

The KUVRR platform is fortified with failover mechanisms that eliminate downtime and prevent message loss, ensuring that reports are received in real time, even during emergencies. Notably, no other vendor possesses an MMS platform that is pre-integrated with Sprigeo's School Safety Tip Line, which operates 24/7/365 and can receive and triage tips, including photo and video uploads and two-way messaging.

For the past five years, the Illinois Safe2Help program has relied on KUVRR's custom-built platform without disruptions in service or support. Developing a comparable solution with a different provider would be a lengthy process that will result in significant delays and critical gaps in service. Such a transition will also introduce reliability issues and an increased risk of unprocessed or delayed threat reports. Any attempt to replace this provider will jeopardize the continuity of this life-saving program and result in unanswered school safety threats, putting students at risk of great bodily harm or death. The KUVRR platform, the established 5-digit short code, and the custom configuration tailored for Sprigeo under a prior contract must remain intact to effectively promote the Safe2Help program across schools in Illinois. We are committed to providing a secure and effective reporting solution.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)/Western Illinois University has actively promoted/mareketed KUVRR's unique short code "SAFE2," incorporating it into school safety protocols throughout the state. The Illinois Safe2Help program is a vital resource for 3,977 public schools and serves as an essential lifeline for 1,853,391 students enrolled in prekindergarten through 12th grade in Illinois. Since its launch, the program has benefited over 882,900 students, and the number of tips reported through the program has increased by 50% each year since 2021. Any disruption of service could jeopardize this life-saving program, potentially leaving school safety threats unanswered and putting students at risk of severe harm or even death.

Any disruption to this service would severely compromise the ability of students, parents, school officials, and the general public to report self-harm and school safety threats in real time. Maintaining continuity is paramount to ensuring that Safe2Help Illinois remains fully operational. Changing to a new service provider at this time would undoubtedly disrupt the program, causing significant operational and safety risks.

1. KUVRR NOTIFY with custom connector developed for S2H program. Includes vanity Short Code for texting (SAFE2 or 72232) licensing and integration along with 50,000 text messages per year. Also includes Command n Control portal with 3 seat license. Additional text messages above 50,000 for a year are charged at $15 per 100 message pack. Cost: $63,472.50

2. On-Going Upgrades and Maintenance - Regular upgrades, maintenance, patches and version alignments. Cost: Included

3. KUVRR Command and Control Licenses - Command and Control to review on-going communications. Cost: Included

4. Cloud Storage - Cloud storage for all incoming and outgoing messages. Cost: Included

5. Customer Support - On-going support via email (support@Kuvrr.com) and phone. Cost: Included

KUVRR's unique short code has been widely promoted and incorporated into school safety protocols across the state. Its continued functionality is vital for ensuring consistency, reliability, and effectiveness within the Safe2Help Illinois initiative.

Although this purchase does not create a legal obligation for future purchases, the critical nature of this service, its customized integration, and the need for operational continuity will likely necessitate ongoing engagement with this vendor for maintenance, licensing, and continued support of the Safe2Help Illinois mission.