Charter School Institute - Fresh Fruit and Vegetables SoCo

The Colorado Charter School Institute is requesting proposals for fresh fruit and vegetable supply under RFP #2026-2027 serving three charter schools in Southern Colorado, with bids due July 21, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. MST. A preference for locally grown Colorado products (harvested within two weeks of delivery) and Buy American compliance applies.

The scope covers weekly Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program distributions to approximately 300 students across Kwiyagat Community School in Towaoc, Pagosa Peak Open School in Pagosa Springs, and Battle Rock Charter School in Cortez. Required produce includes both bulk and individually wrapped fresh fruits and raw vegetables: apples, bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cantaloupes, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, chile peppers, honeydew, mushrooms, peaches, pears, plums, radishes, raspberries, tomatoes, spinach, summer squash, watermelon, and winter squash. The specification also calls for approximately 40 pre-packaged items in 50-count or 100-count serving sizes (2-ounce and 3-ounce portions) such as baby carrot and celery combos, beet chips, bell pepper slices, and broccoli florets, as well as 5-pound bulk packs of select items. Usage projections vary by school and availability, coordinated monthly by CSI. Bidders must return the completed specification sheet with their proposal.

The contract period runs August 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 with four optional one-year renewal periods at CSI's discretion. Vendors must provide proof of minimum $1 million liability insurance and complete a Producer Food Safety Checklist demonstrating HACCP or on-farm food safety plan compliance. Pricing must be firm, FOB Destination quotes separated into raw food costs and delivery costs. CSI Schools are tax-exempt and require payment terms of at least 30 days or discounts of at least 10 days from receipt.

Award uses a weighted rubric: proposed pricing (21 points), vendor performance and reputation (20 points), delivery capability (20 points), financial responsibility (20 points), and ability to meet bid requirements including food safety plans (19 points). Bids should be submitted via email to IleneAgustin@csi.state.co.us. CSI reserves the right to make supplemental purchases through Colorado State Bid Contracts or other sources and may cancel with 30 days' written notice.