DOC Mens and Womens Navy Blue Canvas Slip-On Sneakers

The State of Rhode Island Department of Corrections is seeking a vendor to supply men's and women's navy blue canvas slip-on sneakers with rubber soles for inmates, with a total procurement quantity of 300 dozen units. This Request for Quotation (RFQ) was issued on January 5, 2026, with a solicitation closing date of February 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM EST. The procurement process includes a vendor question and answer period running from January 5, 2026 at 11:15 AM EST through January 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST. The initial contract period is expected to begin in Spring 2026 and will span three years, with potential renewal options for two additional 12-month periods contingent on vendor performance and fund availability. All proposal submissions must be made electronically through Ocean State Procures, with no acceptance of proposals via mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. Delivery terms are Free On Board Destination, and the State reserves the right to make multiple awards or reject any or all bids.

Vendors must meet specific qualification requirements, including maintaining comprehensive insurance coverage with general liability ($1,000,000 per occurrence), workers' compensation ($100,000 each accident), and automobile liability ($1,000,000 each occurrence). The solicitation includes a mandatory participation requirement for minority and women business enterprises, with a minimum 15% participation of the dollar value. All potential vendors must register in Ocean State Procures and complete vendor certifications regarding disclosures and compliance with state laws. An administrative contract fee of 0.33% will be withheld from invoices upon approval. While a specific budget range is not detailed, the procurement involves 300 dozen sneakers, suggesting a moderate-value contract. The solicitation contact is Bridgette DuBois from the State of Rhode Island Division of Purchases, who can provide additional information about the procurement process and requirements.