IW225318 - Sweet Potatoes

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department is soliciting bids for a blanket purchase order agreement for sweet potatoes through Invitation for Bids (IFB) number IW225318. The procurement seeks 1,000 tons of bulk sweet potatoes for canning, to be delivered to the Terrell Canning Plant from September 1, 2025 to February 28, 2026. Bidders must provide sweet potatoes from the current year's crop, produced in a Weevil Free Area (Green or Pink Tag), and ensure the produce is free from extraneous material, decay, or spoilage. The potatoes will be delivered in bulk load lots, with TDCJ expecting to accept 50-75 tons per day based on production schedules. Electronic bid responses are required, preferably submitted via email to bids@tdcj.texas.gov with a 10 MB attachment limit, and the bid opening is scheduled for August 12, 2025 at 3 P.M. Bidders must include unit pricing that encompasses all delivery-related expenses and provide contact information for invoicing and delivery coordination.

The procurement includes a significant Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) component, with a statewide goal of 21.1% for commodities contracts. Vendors must complete a HUB Subcontracting Plan demonstrating good faith efforts to include Texas certified HUB vendors in their bid. Respondents must either commit to using only Texas certified HUB vendors or provide detailed documentation of their attempts to engage such businesses, including notifications to HUB vendors and trade organizations. The contract requires compliance with various state regulations, including E-Verify system usage, Texas Public Information Act provisions, and anti-boycott certifications. Contractors will be required to submit monthly compliance reports and seek approval for any modifications to their subcontracting plan. While specific award value is not explicitly stated, the procurement is for 1,000 tons of sweet potatoes, suggesting a significant agricultural supply contract for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's food service operations.