Emergency Notice - Zscaler ZPA Private Access Licenses & Implementation Services

This is an emergency procurement by the State of Illinois' Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) to acquire 12,000 Zscaler Private Access (ZPA) licenses, support, and implementation services from Carahsoft Technology Corporation. The purchase is necessary to address security issues identified in a recent confidential audit and meet imposed deadlines. Zscaler's ZPA offering is described as the fastest, most secure access to private apps, services, and OT devices, with native integration to the State's enterprise identity and security solutions. Carahsoft, an authorized Zscaler reseller, has previously provided similar products and services to the State. The expected contract period is from April 7, 2023, to July 6, 2023, with an estimated expenditure of $2,297,883.40. Funding will come from State appropriated funds. Due to the emergency nature and short timeframe, there is no opportunity for subcontracting or inclusion of a Business Enterprise Program (BEP) participation goal, as the State has historically not placed such goals on packaged software, licensing, and software security procurements. All products will be delivered electronically.

Carahsoft is the incumbent vendor for this procurement, and there is no opportunity for other vendors to compete. The State has determined that Carahsoft and Zscaler's products and services are the only viable solutions that can meet the required security and integration needs within the limited timeframe. As this is an emergency procurement, the State has not set aside this opportunity for any specific type of organization, and the contract value falls within the State's discretionary spending authority.