DHS SP Visual Impairment Training Aides

This state and local contracting opportunity is for the procurement of training aids for individuals with visual impairments on behalf of the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS). The contract, titled "DHS SP Visual Impairment Training Aides," seeks to acquire goods and services related to the provision of training aids for persons with visual disabilities. The procurement requires the selected vendor to comply with all relevant state and federal laws, including the Illinois Human Rights Act, Civil Rights Act, and Rehabilitation Act. Potential deliverables and objectives include the development and delivery of specialized training materials and assistive technologies to support the educational and vocational needs of the visually impaired population served by the DHS. Interested vendors must submit the required Forms A and B certifications and disclosures, and demonstrate the necessary qualifications and experience to fulfill the contract requirements. The solicitation has a due date of January 16, 2020.

The procurement is open to all qualified vendors, but may include set-aside provisions or preferences for disadvantaged business enterprises, such as minority-owned, women-owned, or veteran-owned firms. The existing contract, known as "BLAST - Contract with National Assn for Blind Merchants," has a contract number of 46BLAST201 and may involve the current vendor, the National Association for Blind Merchants (NABM), in the provision of goods and services under the Randolph-Sheppard Act. While specific award values or budget ranges are not provided, the solicitation indicates that the contract will be subject to the applicable state procurement statutes and regulations.