Promotional Items (Higher Education Institutions)

The North Carolina Department of Administration’s Division of Purchase & Contract is establishing a Statewide Term Contract (STC 8014B) for the supply of a broad range of promotional items to public higher‑education institutions on an as‑needed basis. Qualified vendors must hold at least one current collegiate licensing agreement with a North Carolina university or community college and be registered in the state’s e‑Vendor Portal. The contract runs from the effective date (post‑award) through June 30 2029, with optional one‑year renewals. Estimated total spend over the term is $6.085 million. Products include apparel, bags, drinkware, writing instruments, awards, and other branded merchandise, with sustainability requirements (recycled/biodegradable content, FSC, Green Seal, etc.). Vendors will be evaluated on price, quality, licensing compliance, sustainability, and past performance. The solicitation includes a mandatory bid opening on Oct 12 2026 (2 PM ET) via Microsoft Teams. • Scope: Supply, customize, and deliver promotional merchandise for >120 NC colleges/universities. • Categories: Apparel, bags/totes, drinkware, writing instruments, awards, miscellaneous items. • Contract term: Up to 2 years 9 months (Oct 2026 – June 30 2029) with two optional one‑year extensions. • Estimated spend: $6.085 M (historical). • Eligibility: Must hold a valid collegiate license; NC‑registered vendor in good standing. • Key dates: RFP posted Sep 23 2026; questions due Sep 30 2026; bid opening Oct 12 2026.