Virtual Enterprise International, Inc.

Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) has issued a Notice of Intent to Purchase Single/Sole Source for the Virtual Enterprises (VE) International program, specifically procuring educational services from Virtual Enterprise International, Inc. The procurement is for a comprehensive educational program that enables business ownership students to operate simulated businesses within a classroom environment, utilizing a global virtual economy and banking system. The program provides an interactive platform with specialized curriculum, teacher and student resources, and a unique virtual business ecosystem that allows students to create, manage, and operate businesses through a sophisticated digital infrastructure. The single/sole source procurement is being conducted under Rule 6A-1.012(12)(d) of the Florida Administrative Code, with a public notice period from July 16, 2024, at 7 pm to July 26, 2024, at 7 pm. During this seven-business-day window, HCPS will accept responses to determine if alternative vendors can provide equivalent services, though no competitive solicitation is being issued. The key objectives include teaching business skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving through an immersive, technology-driven educational experience that connects students globally through a simulated business environment.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. Virtual Enterprise International, Inc. is identified as the sole vendor with copyrighted programs and curriculum that cannot be readily duplicated, effectively positioning them as the incumbent and likely awardee. The program requires integration with existing educational technology infrastructure within Hillsborough County Public Schools' classrooms, demanding compatibility with current educational platforms and technological ecosystems. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated in the documentation, the procurement suggests a comprehensive, district-wide implementation of the Virtual Enterprises program across multiple business education classrooms. The sole-source nature of the procurement indicates a specialized, unique offering that meets specific pedagogical requirements that cannot be easily replicated by alternative vendors, which may influence the potential contract value and scope of implementation.