FY27 IFB Connect IL Implementation Tech Assistance

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is requesting bids for technical assistance services to support statewide broadband deployment under the Connect Illinois Program (IFB 26-420DCEO-BROAD-B-52161), with bids due July 24, 2026. The procurement is not a small business set-aside, and neither Business Enterprise Program nor Veterans Business Program participation is required.

The scope encompasses financial, technical, operational, and managerial advisory services to assist in deploying more than $1 billion in broadband infrastructure across Illinois. The contractor will evaluate business plans, budgets, and financial documentation; review network designs and architecture; advise on operational and managerial elements; support grantee monitoring and compliance; evaluate entity qualifications; and provide expertise on permitting considerations. The contractor must demonstrate a minimum of two years of experience in broadband deployment advisory services in Illinois and provide relevant project references and key personnel qualifications. Services are performed on an hourly billing basis at rates specified in the purchase order, with invoicing required at least quarterly and no later than July 31 each year. Travel to the DCEO Chicago office (555 W. Monroe) is required up to four times annually for two-day periods; services may otherwise be performed at the vendor's facilities at no cost to the State.

The initial contract term is five years from execution, with an option to renew for up to an additional five years. The vendor must maintain General Commercial Liability insurance of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million annual aggregate, Auto Liability of $1 million per occurrence, and Workers' Compensation Insurance as required by law. Subcontractors with annual contract values exceeding $100,000 require prior written approval.

Evaluation is based on responsibility, responsiveness, and price, with award going to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Bids must remain firm for 90 days from opening. Questions were due July 17, 2026. The contract is partially or totally funded with federal funds (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program and Capital Projects Fund); the percentage and dollar amount will be disclosed upon award notice. Vendors with contracts valued at $1,000 or more must pay a $15 Minority Contractor Opportunity Initiative fee to be deducted from the first payment. Award occurred July 28, 2026 to Krasan Consulting Services Inc at $4,402,154.90 (initial term $2,201,014.48; renewal term $2,201,140.42).