JPMC Chicago Metro Presort Mail

Background
The State of Illinois, through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion, is seeking to establish a joint purchase master contract for Chicago Metro Presort Mail Services. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of mail services while promoting participation from certified vendors under the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) and Veterans Business Program (VBP). The goal is to ensure that a significant portion of the contract value is allocated to businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities.

Work Details
The contract will involve providing presort mail services for the Chicago Metro area. Specific tasks may include sorting, processing, and delivering mail in compliance with postal regulations.

Vendors are required to submit a Utilization Plan (U-Plan) detailing how they will meet BEP/VBP participation goals. This includes identifying subcontractors, specifying the percentage of work assigned to BEP/VBP certified vendors, and providing a detailed description of the work or goods to be supplied. All participating vendors must be certified in relevant NIGP Codes as defined in the solicitation.

Period of Performance
The duration of the contract will be specified in the final agreement but typically spans several months to years, including potential renewals or extensions based on performance and compliance with contractual obligations.

Place of Performance
The services will primarily be performed within the Chicago Metro area, with specific locations for mail processing and delivery potentially identified during contract execution.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must demonstrate compliance with BEP/VBP goals by submitting a U-Plan at the time of bid submission. This includes commitments to utilize certified vendors for a specified percentage of the contract value.

Bidders must also provide evidence of Good Faith Efforts if they cannot meet these goals fully. All subcontractors must be certified under BEP/VBP in relevant NIGP Codes at the time of bid submission.