FY-26 IVHQ - Quarterly (Jan-Mar) Weekly Food Order - Brand Specific or Equal

The State of Illinois, specifically the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, is seeking competitive quotes for a quarterly weekly food order covering the period of January through March 2026. The procurement is a Request for Quote (RFQ) soliciting bids for 25 line items of food products, including proteins, dairy, frozen vegetables, prepared foods, and specialty ingredients. Quantities range from 5 to 311 cases or units, with specific brand names listed or equal alternatives accepted. Vendors must submit pricing for each line item with shipping and freight costs incorporated, with the burden of proof on bidders to demonstrate product equivalency. Deliveries will be made weekly on Tuesdays with a two-week lead time, excluding holidays. The RFQ requires submission of quotes through both paper forms and the Bid Buy system, with paper submissions taking precedence in case of conflicts. The submission deadline is November 6, 2025, and quotes must be sent to Summer Prenger at summer.prenger@illinois.gov.

The procurement does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must comply with the State of Illinois' comprehensive certification requirements, which include 33 detailed certifications covering areas such as legal status, financial obligations, anti-discrimination policies, and cybersecurity standards. Failure to meet these certifications could result in contract voidance, vendor suspension, or potential legal penalties. While specific award values are not detailed, the contract involves estimated quarterly food orders for the Illinois Veterans Home. Vendors must maintain appropriate insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 in General Commercial Liability and comply with state procurement regulations. The contract is subject to appropriation availability and will require vendors to adhere to standard state contract terms, including record retention, payment procedures, and potential termination clauses.