RFP E-Rate Category 2 Internal Connections

Molalla River School District 35 in Oregon has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for E-Rate Category 2 Internal Connections, seeking comprehensive network infrastructure equipment and services for a newly constructed Middle School. The procurement focuses on acquiring core and access layer network switches, wireless access points (WAPs), network security cameras, Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), network racks, and mounting hardware to establish a robust Local Area Network (LAN) and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). All proposers must be registered service providers with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), holding a valid 498 ID (SPIN), and prepared to accommodate E-rate reimbursement methods. The RFP was issued on November 4, 2025, with proposals due by December 11, 2025, at 4:00 PM Pacific Time. Evaluation criteria include E-rate Eligible Costs (30 points), E-rate Ineligible Costs (20 points), Compatibility with Existing Infrastructure (20 points), Proposer Qualifications & RFP Compliance (20 points), and References (10 points), totaling 100 possible points. Questions are due by November 18, 2025, with answers provided by November 21, 2025, and the Notice of Intent to Award anticipated for January 13, 2026.

The RFP includes specific requirements for disadvantaged business participation, mandating that certified firms such as minority-owned, woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and emerging small businesses receive equal opportunity to compete and participate in subcontract performance. Proposers must complete a Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan, detailing their relationships with certified firms and planned subcontracting opportunities. The District maintains a Cisco-based network environment with Meraki Access Points and Cameras, requiring proposed equipment to demonstrate seamless integration with existing infrastructure. All products must be new with original manufacturer warranties from authorized resellers, and proposers must separately itemize E-rate eligible and ineligible costs. The contract award is contingent upon successful E-rate funding notification and the District's issuance of a written Notice to Proceed. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the detailed Cost Proposal Form indicates significant investment in network infrastructure, including 19 Cisco C9300L DNA Advantage licenses, Cisco switches, Eaton UPS units, and 86 Cisco Meraki MR46 wireless access points.