Catering Services ITQ

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Department of General Services (DGS) has issued an Invitation to Qualify (ITQ) for Catering Services, seeking to establish a statewide contract for small businesses providing catering solutions for executive agencies within a 20-mile radius of the Main Capitol Complex. The procurement covers two primary service categories: general catering for small and large meetings during weekdays and evenings (excluding weekends), and event planning with custom menus for special events. Qualified contractors must demonstrate at least two years of experience catering events for over 30 people and possess current food handler quality certificates. The contract will be awarded through a best value selection process utilizing the Commonwealth's JAGGAER portal, with qualifications accepted exclusively through electronic submission. The solicitation requires contractors to submit various certifications, including Iran Free Procurement Certification and Worker Protection and Investment Certification. The contract is scheduled to be active from April 2, 2025, with a due date for submissions of June 4, 2030, and will involve as-needed catering services without guaranteed business volume.

This ITQ is exclusively reserved for DGS-certified small businesses, with specific set-aside designations targeting disadvantaged and small business enterprises. Contractors must agree to additional social responsibility requirements, such as donating excess prepared food and potentially collaborating with UniqueSource, an organization employing persons with disabilities. The contract terms include comprehensive provisions for worker compensation, with a minimum hourly rate of $15.00 subject to annual cost-of-living adjustments. Insurance requirements mandate worker's compensation and public liability coverage, with minimum coverage of $250,000 per person and $1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage. While specific contract award values are not explicitly stated, the procurement allows for flexible, as-needed service delivery across Commonwealth agencies. Performance will be monitored and evaluated at least annually, with the Commonwealth reserving the right to extend the contract for up to three additional months beyond the initial five-year term.