Science Educational Materials Supplies and Equipment

The Connecticut Department of Administrative Services is requesting bids on science educational materials, laboratory supplies, instructional resources, and related instructional equipment through ITB 26PSX0177, a rebid of prior solicitation 26PSX0128, with responses due September 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EDT. Vendor questions are due September 4, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

A price preference of up to 10% applies to micro businesses with gross revenues not exceeding $3 million; veteran-owned micro businesses qualify for a 15% preference with certification from the Connecticut State Department of Veteran Affairs. Documentation supporting micro-business status must be provided prior to the bid due date.

The scope encompasses science educational materials and instructional equipment across a catalog-based delivery model. Respondents submit pricing on an Excel-based Exhibit B template using manufacturer catalogs; no line items are prescribed. All goods must be standard, new, and of the latest model unless otherwise specified, and must comply with federal Energy Star standards and Connecticut environmentally preferable product requirements. Bidders must identify any items requiring special shipping due to hazardous materials, live organisms, refrigerated, or temperature-sensitive characteristics. Contract pricing remains firm for twelve months following the effective date; annual price adjustments during the thirty-day period preceding each anniversary are limited to changes in manufacturers' published catalogs or price lists and require DAS approval.

The contract term is three years with DAS discretion to extend for additional periods not exceeding the length of the original term. FOB Destination delivery applies with vendor-specified payment terms; the State is exempt from federal and state taxes. Payment is due within 45 days of acceptance, or 25 days for certified small contractors or minority business enterprises. Contractors must maintain general liability insurance of at least $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate, with the State named as additional insured, and enroll in ACH for payment processing.

Award will be made to the lowest responsible qualified respondent based on pricing, conformity to specifications, past performance, and financial responsibility. Two references from organizations other than Connecticut state agencies are required. DAS reserves the right to reject any or all responses and may award by individual item, group of items, or collectively. The prior contract 20PSX0148 will be replaced in part or in total.