Bid guide
How to bid on E-rate Internet Egress for K-12 customers from DoIT
What DoIT is buying and why it matters
The Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), specifically the Illinois Century Network (ICN), is seeking a contractor to provide Internet Egress services. These services are essential for K-12 schools in Illinois that participate in the E-rate program, ensuring they continue to receive necessary internet access.
This contract is important for vendors in the technology sector, particularly those with experience in internet services and supporting educational institutions. It represents an opportunity to secure a contract with a state agency to provide critical infrastructure services.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Invitation for Bid (IFB) was published on August 10, 2026. The deadline for submitting your response is September 15, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. All submissions must be received by this time.
Late submissions will likely not be considered. Ensure you allow ample time to complete your proposal and submit it through the specified portal before the deadline.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is best suited for technology firms specializing in internet service provision and network infrastructure. Vendors with experience serving K-12 educational institutions or government entities will find this particularly relevant.
The solicitation falls under the technology category, specifically for internet egress services. Firms with a strong background in providing reliable and scalable internet solutions are encouraged to bid.
How to respond to this solicitation
To access the full IFB documents and detailed response instructions, you need to visit the State of Illinois procurement portal, BidBuy. The solicitation number is 27-448DOIT-ADMIN-B-53292.
You can view the bid details and documents publicly without signing in. If you intend to submit your quote electronically, you will need to register a free vendor account on the BidBuy portal. Alternatively, follow the specific submission directions provided within the bid documents if electronic submission is not your chosen method. For questions, contact Lori Andrews at [email protected].
Tips for preparing a competitive response
When preparing your response, carefully review all sections of the IFB to ensure full compliance with every requirement. Pay close attention to the technical specifications for Internet Egress services and ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates how your firm meets or exceeds these requirements.
Highlight your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving K-12 schools or E-rate program participation. Clearly articulate your pricing structure and any value-added services you can provide. Proofread your entire submission for clarity, accuracy, and completeness before the deadline.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DoIT - Department of Innovation and Technology; the original posting controls.