Robotics Lease

Appalachian State University is requesting proposals for an operating lease of robotic cleaning equipment—one CenoBot SP50 autonomous vacuum and one CenoBot L50 autonomous scrubber, each with charging/workstation units, freight, training, and deployment services—under RFP55-072126, with proposals due August 4, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET.

The contract term is 36 months, with an anticipated effective date of September 1, 2026 and equipment delivery by August 15, 2026. Pricing for the operating lease must include all fees, accrued interest, and document preparation costs, with no early-payment buyout penalty. Monthly payments commence within 30 days of equipment acceptance; the state will pay invoices net 30 days after approval.

Vendors must provide at least five customer references from similar projects and demonstrate extensive experience in a university or educational setting. Required submissions include pricing forms, HUB certification, financial condition certification, and worker location documentation. Background checks for all vendor personnel are mandatory at vendor expense. Vendors must comply with North Carolina General Statutes regarding E-Verify requirements for employees.

The state reserves the right to make separate awards to multiple vendors or cancel the RFP. Public proposal opening occurs on August 4, 2026. Evaluation will focus on the vendor's ability to meet requirements and provide best value; no specific evaluation weighting is stated. No renewal options, set-asides, incumbent information, or estimated contract value are identified in the solicitation.