StateOfIL Commitment to Diversity Vendor Guidance v.24.4.pdf

This is a Commitment to Diversity Vendor Guidance document issued by the State of Illinois that provides direction to state agencies regarding diversity and inclusion requirements in competitive solicitations. The guidance establishes standards and expectations for state procurement processes to ensure equitable participation of diverse vendors in state contracting opportunities. The document outlines the framework through which state agencies, including those issuing the RFP for Oases Food Service Re-Development & Operations, must implement diversity commitments. Per CPO Notice 2023.12, all state agencies are required to accept only electronic submissions for competitive solicitations, with paper responses rejected. For the related Oases Food Service opportunity, written vendor questions must be submitted by September 25, 2026 by 10:00 am to nsnow@getipass.com with "Questions-Oases Food Service" noted in the email subject line.

The guidance establishes procurement standards applicable to the State of Illinois and its agencies to advance diversity objectives in vendor selection and contract awards. This document serves as the operational framework vendors must understand when responding to state competitive solicitations, including food service opportunities. The diversity commitment guidance ensures that state contracting processes incorporate inclusive practices while maintaining competitive procurement standards, thereby creating pathways for diverse-owned and emerging businesses to participate in state contracts.