Sole Source Public Review -Certification Training Programs and Examination Services

City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) is pursuing a sole source procurement for Certification Training Programs and Examination Services through the Dawson Technical Institute, specifically targeting CompTIA technology industry certification materials and exam vouchers. The procurement covers two primary quotes: one for 40 Security+ Voucher V7, 30 Security+ CertMaster Learn + Labs V7 Student editions, and 30 Security+ CertMaster Practice V7 Business/Org editions totaling $19,220, and another for 20 vouchers each of Security+ and Network+ certifications valued at $14,840. These materials are intended for grant-funded workforce empowerment and technology training initiatives, with a focus on providing students with industry-standard certification preparation. The public hearing for this sole source determination is scheduled for November 7, 2025, via Zoom teleconference, where interested parties can provide testimony regarding the procurement. The procurement is specifically designed to support multiple campuses and programs, with a critical objective of enabling students to complete technology certification programs through approved CompTIA materials and examinations.

The procurement includes a Schedule D Waiver Request seeking full exemption from Minority Business Enterprise (MBE, 25%) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE, 7%) contract participation requirements. CompTIA is positioned as the sole source vendor, with justification based on their exclusive rights as the copyright owner of certification exams, vouchers, and official content. The total procurement value is approximately $34,060, funded through two separate grant-funded account strings. Funding is specifically tied to the TechQuity Chicago grant, which aims to create talent pipelines in technology and business careers. An objection template has been provided for potential vendors to challenge the sole source designation by demonstrating comparable service capabilities. The procurement is time-sensitive, with approvals already secured from Susanne Brock (Grants PI Approver) on 10/09/25 and Keri Hornat (Request Intake VP Approval) on 10/10/25, and targeting a Board approval date of 12/04/2025.