Ticketing Platform

The University of Texas at Tyler has issued Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 750-25-26-003 seeking a cloud-based computerized ticketing platform for the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center. The comprehensive solution must include integrated ticketing capabilities, customer relationship management tools, and marketing functionalities that support on-campus facilities, satellite locations, telephone, and internet sales channels. Proposers must provide PCI-compliant solutions with dedicated staff, comprehensive training, hardware maintenance, and 24/7 technical support with guaranteed emergency response times. The RFP requires vendors to demonstrate financial stability and ensure accessibility compliance with ADA and PCI standards. Key evaluation criteria include cost of goods and services, proposer reputation and quality, extent of service alignment with university needs, past relationship with the institution, and total long-term cost. Critical procurement dates include a question submittal deadline of December 16, 2025, and a proposal submission deadline of January 9, 2026, at 4:00 PM Central Time through the BonfireHub portal. The anticipated contract term spans from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029, with potential university options to renew for up to three additional one-year terms.

While the University has determined that subcontracting opportunities are not probable, all proposers must submit a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan as a mandatory proposal component or risk rejection. The university currently utilizes Authorize.net and Global Payments as payment gateways, with TouchNet for commerce integration, so preferred vendors must demonstrate system compatibility with these existing payment processors. Proposers should note that the university is exempt from Texas Sales and Use Tax and will process payments through net 30-day terms via electronic funds transfer methods. Hardware provided must have a useful life not exceeding four years. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the comprehensive nature of the ticketing platform requirements suggests a significant technological investment. The RFP indicates a preference for vendors who can seamlessly integrate with existing university payment and commerce infrastructure while providing a robust, scalable ticketing solution that meets the institution's complex event management needs.