DPC-2373536849-MT - Addendum 01.pdf

This is a solicitation addendum issued by the North Carolina Department of Administration, Division of Purchase & Contract, for promotional items to supply higher education institutions statewide under Statewide Term Contract 8014B. The solicitation covers six product categories: apparel (t-shirts, polos, jackets, hats); bags and totes (backpacks, duffels, drawstring bags); drinkware (water bottles, tumblers, mugs); writing instruments (pens, pencils, highlighters); award and recognition gifts (plaques, trophies, certificates); and other promotional merchandise (keychains, lanyards, calendars). Written questions are due October 5, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET, with state responses provided October 7, 2026. Proposals are due October 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET via Microsoft Teams Meeting (ID: 232 473 536 944 138; Passcode: eb7fR2i3; dial-in: 1-984-204-1487, Conference ID: 182622348). The intended contract award date is to be determined. The contract term runs from the effective date through June 30, 2029, with the state retaining the option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms upon written notice at least 30 days before the end of each term.

The estimated contract spend is $6.085 million over the contract term. Vendors must hold current collegiate licenses or licensing agreements with one or more North Carolina universities or community colleges and must deliver within ten business days of final proof approval for standard orders while maintaining a minimum 95 percent on-time delivery rate. Pricing must include standard shipping and delivery to North Carolina locations and must demonstrate reasonableness against GSA, NASPO ValuePoint, or other state contract pricing. All items must comply with CPSC, ASTM, and FDA safety standards, with vendors providing a 30-day return policy, defective product replacement at no charge, and manufacturer's warranty for a minimum of 12 months. Vendors must register with the North Carolina Secretary of State and complete certifications regarding financial stability, non-debarment, E-Verify compliance, fair employment practices, and disclosure of GenAI solutions or services. The solicitation seeks sustainability features including recycled content, biodegradable materials, and environmentally certified options. Vendors currently awarded under the existing 8014B contract or holding qualifying collegiate licenses are not required to submit proposals to maintain their existing awards. The procurement lead is Melinda Tomlinson.