46-DNCR-25-2059 IFB Artificial Saltwater Mixture for NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island

The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is seeking bids for an Invitation for Bid (IFB) to procure artificial saltwater mixture for three North Carolina Aquarium locations: Roanoke Island, Fort Fisher, and Jennette's Pier. The procurement solicits newly manufactured dry artificial seawater mixture, with and without sodium thiosulfate, packaged in quantities capable of producing 150-200 gallons or 5,000 gallons of seawater. The estimated annual quantities range from 7,000 to 12,000 units for smaller packages and 15-35 units for bulk packages. Bids are due January 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, with a question submission deadline of January 3, 2025. The contract term is three years from the date of execution, with the state reserving the right to extend the contract. Delivery requirements specify FOB Destination to the three aquarium locations, with Roanoke Island and Jennette's Pier receiving combined shipments every 3-4 months. Vendors must maintain firm pricing for one year from the contract effective date, with potential price adjustments permitted thereafter if supported by documentation.

The solicitation includes a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) participation goal of 10% for first or second tier subcontractors. Vendors must be registered in the state's Electronic Vendor Portal (eVP) to be eligible to bid. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the multi-year contract and substantial annual quantity requirements suggest a potentially significant procurement value. The contract covers jurisdictions including Davie County, Mecklenburg County, Lasker Town, and Maury CDP, though the primary delivery locations are the three specified aquarium sites. No incumbent vendors are mentioned in the documentation, and no specific technology integration requirements are outlined beyond the precise specifications for the artificial saltwater mixture. Potential bidders should carefully review the full solicitation document for comprehensive details on packaging, delivery specifications, and compliance requirements.