TIPS SOLICITATION DOCUMENT
THE INTERLOCAL PURCHASING SYSTEM (“TIPS”)
A department of TIPS Lead Agency:
TEXAS REGION 8 EDUCATION SERVICE CENTER (“Region 8 ESC”)
TIPS RFP 240402 Office and School Supplies, Products, and Services
I. NOTICE TO PROPOSERS.
Contact Information:
TIPS/Region 8 ESC
4845 US Hwy. 271 North
Pittsburg, Texas 75686
Toll Free: (866) 839-8477
Email: bids@tips-usa.com
Website: www.tips-usa.com
TIPS Solicitation:
TIPS RFP 240402 Office and School Supplies, Products, and Services
This solicitation document is a Request for Proposal as permitted in Texas Education Code § 44.031. Regardless of potential informal
or erroneous references to other solicitation terms such as: “solicitation”, “bid”, “request for competitive sealed proposal”, “RCSP”,
etc., this solicitation is the method of procurement identified at this location.
Proposal Deadline:
All proposals shall be received electronically, or otherwise sealed, by: MAY 17, 2024 AT 3:00 P.M. LOCAL TIME
Access to Solicitation Documents:
Solicitation documents are located online at http://tips.ionwave.net. If you encounter a problem while accessing the solicitation, please
contact TIPS at the contact information provided for assistance.
Piggybacking Notice:
This IDIQ Solicitation is intended for the use of public entities and qualifying non-profit entities who join TIPS, now and in the future,
(“TIPS Members”) to piggyback upon and utilize as their own solicitation for legal procurement purposes. TIPS Contracts are
established through free, full and open competition as described by the laws of TIPS jurisdiction and are available for piggy-back by
other government entities anywhere in the United States, subject to each entities’ jurisdictional law and regulation.
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TIPS Administration Fee:
TIPS collection of fees is required pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 791.011 et. seq. The TIPS Administration Fee for this
contract shall be 1% of the amount paid by the TIPS Member for each TIPS Sale, less shipping cost, bond cost, and taxes, if identifiable.
Incorporation of Solicitation:
If Vendor proposes and is awarded, the specifications, terms, and conditions of this solicitation shall be incorporated by reference into
the final, awarded TIPS Contract.
TIPS Contract Jurisdictional Limitations:
Depending on different entities’ and jurisdictions’ laws and regulations, TIPS Member Customers may be prohibited from utilizing
TIPS as a procurement method for any specific procurement or procurement-type. TIPS makes no representations about when a TIPS
procurement will be appropriate for any particular expenditure. It is always up to the TIPS Member customer to determine whether a
TIPS procurement is appropriate under their applicable laws and policies.
Vendor Questions & Pre-Bid Meeting Requests:
Substantive questions will be received until May 3, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. local time. Questions about the specific solicitation shall be
submitted to bids@tips-usa.com with the subject line “240402 Office & School Supplies – Vendor Question”. Vendor-specific
questions about the process will often be answered directly. However, substantive questions that are not properly addressed in the
solicitation information will be properly published to all vendors as an addendum or “Question & Answer” document.
Pre-Bid Meetings are not mandatory and, if requested, TIPS reserves the right to determine whether a Pre-Bid meeting shall be held.
Pre-Bid Meetings may be requested by any proposer on or before April 18, 2024, by emailing bids@tips-usa.com with the subject line
“240402 Office & School Supplies – Pre-Bid Meeting Request”.
Anticipated Schedule of Solicitation Events:
These anticipated dates are subject to change at TIPS’ discretion. TIPS reserves the right to extend the proposal deadline for any reason.
Posting Date APRIL 4, 2024 8:00 A.M. Local Time
Proposal Deadline MAY 17, 2024 3:00 P.M. Local Time
Proposal Opening MAY 17, 2024 3:00 P.M. Local Time
Proposal Review Begins MAY 17, 2024 3:01 P.M. Local Time
Proposals Award JUNE 27, 2024 8:30 A.M. Local Time
Award Notifications JUNE 27, 2024 12:00 P.M. Local Time
Estimated Contract Value:
The estimated value for the life of the contract for all awarded vendors combined is $13,660,730.00. This is an estimate and is not a
guarantee of the minimum or maximum value of the contract because TIPS cannot speculate on TIPS Members’ future needs or budget
allocations as they relate to this solicitation.
II. TIPS
The Interlocal Purchasing System (“TIPS”) is a department of Texas Region 8 Education Service Center, a government entity. TIPS, a
governmental entity and a national purchasing cooperative operating under the Interlocal Cooperation Act 1, seeks to provide a valuable
and necessary solution to public entities and qualifying non-profits by performing the legal public procurement solicitation process and
awarding compliant contracts to qualified vendors. When permitted by TIPS Members’ law and policy, instead of public entities and
qualifying non-profits expending time, money, and resources on the extensive legal competitive procurement process, the use of TIPS,
1 See Texas Government Code, Chapter 791.
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allows public entities to quickly select and purchase their preferred products or services from qualified, evaluated Vendors on an as-
needed basis. TIPS evaluates and scores all responsive, properly submitted proposals. Recommendations for award will be made to the
Region 8 Education Service Center Board of Directors. Awards are ratified or rejected at the monthly meeting of Region 8 ESC Board
of Directors, or as delegated by the Board of Directors. TIPS utilizes a value approach and bases its award recommendations on several
factors mandated by the Texas Education Code section §44.031. The factors are allotted points as described herein. TIPS reserves the
right to assign or deduct any number of points in any given category if warranted due to insufficient response or Vendor stipulated
exceptions and limitations.
III. PROPOSAL GUIDANCE
1. TIPS strongly encourages all interested vendors to respond using the TIPS IonWave Electronic eBid System for proposal
submission. The online submission has many safeguards built into the system that will notify proposers of mistakes or missing
information. These safeguards will significantly minimize the potential for Vendor disqualification. If you encounter
trouble with the TIPS IonWave eBid System, please contact TIPS.
2. If it is determined that Vendor cannot utilize the TIPS IonWave eBid System, Vendor must email bids@tips-usa.com seeking
a manual submission packet which TIPS will send to you via US Mail or FedEx within two business days of receiving your
request. All manual responses must be sealed in an envelope and must be physically received by TIPS at the TIPs Contact
information provided herein and by the deadline provided herein.
3. If you are viewing this document, you have likely already logged into the TIPS IonWave eBid System. If not, you need to
register/login to the TIPS IonWave eBid System online at https://tips.ionwave.net/ and follow these instructions.
4. Once logged in, confirm that your Supplier Profile properly lists your accurate entity-name, EIN, d/b/a’s, and contact
information, matching your current W9. If it does not, either correct it, or disable the inaccurate profile and create a correct
profile before proceeding.
5. Next, confirm that all emails issued by the following domains can be received by your entity’s email servers to ensure that you
do not miss vital messages: “@tips-usa.com”, @tipsconstruction.com”, and “ionwave.net”
6. Once that review/update is complete, Vendor shall carefully read through all bid Event Details, Bid Notes, Attachments,
Addenda, Instructions, and Attribute Questions before submitting questions to TIPS.
7. TIPS recommends starting Vendor’s proposal response by answering the required “Attribute” questions within the IonWave
eBid System. These responses are required and it is beneficial to start with the Attribute questions as some of the bid
Attachments are only required depending on your responses to those questions.
8. Once Vendor has completed the Attribute Questions, Vendor must download, properly complete, and upload into the correct
“Response Attachments” location all required Attachments.
9. Once Vendor has completed the Attribute Questions and uploaded all required Attachments, Vendor must submit the proposal
before the legal Proposal Deadline. The system will notify you of errors and allow you to correct those errors where you would
otherwise risk unintentional disqualification through paper submission.
10. Proposals may be retracted, amended, and resubmitted by the proposer on the electronic eBid System at any time prior to the
legal deadline.
11. If an addendum is posted, you will receive an email notification and you are required to login to the IonWave eBid System to
address the Addendum.
12. TIPS reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to accept any proposals, and to waive any informality in the proposal
process provided waiver is equally applied to all proposers and another proposer is not prejudiced by the waiver.
13. If Vendor has proposed deviations to TIPS’ standard terms, there is an Attribute Question where Vendor can assert that it has
proposed negotiations. If Vendor responds to that attribute question asserting deviations, after this solicitation legally closes
and TIPS begins evaluating Vendor's file, TIPS will provide Vendor with a draft Word Document Vendor Agreement and
instruct Vendor to include all requested negotiations as redline edits for TIPS consideration. This is the only proper way to
submit proposed deviations for TIPS consideration. TIPS reserves the right to accept, decline, or modify Vendor's requested
negotiated terms. For this reason, asserting deviations or negotiations may ultimately delay or prevent award.
14. Withdrawal of proposals will not be allowed for a period of 90 days following the opening unless approved by TIPS in writing.
15. If a Vendor desires to protest a process or decision by TIPS, the Vendor must follow the following process: http://www.tips-
usa.com/assets/documents/docs/letters/Protest_Procedures_for_Vendor.pdf
Proposal Format
All responses should be direct, concise, complete, and unambiguous.
1. Attribute Questions.
Vendor must respond carefully and accurately to all “Attributes” within the IonWave eBid System.
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2. Completion of Attachments.
Pricing Form 1
Pricing Form 1 must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System, reviewed, properly
completed as instructed on the form and herein, uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting Pricing Form 1.
Pricing Form 2
Pricing Form 2 must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System, reviewed, properly
completed as instructed on the form and herein, and uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting Pricing Form
2.
Alternate or Supplemental Pricing Documents
Optional. If when completing Pricing Form 1 & Pricing Form 2 you direct TIPS to view additional, alternate, or supplemental
pricing documentation, you may upload that documentation.
Vendor Agreement
The Vendor Agreement must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System, reviewed, properly
completed, and uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting the Vendor Agreement. If Vendor has proposed
deviations to the Vendor Agreement, Vendor may assert so in the Attribute Questions and those shall be addressed during
evaluation.
Vendor Agreement Signature Form
The Vendor Agreement Signature Form must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System,
reviewed, properly completed, and uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting the Vendor Agreement
Signature Form. If Vendor has proposed deviations to the Vendor Agreement, Vendor may leave the signature line of this page
blank and assert so in the Attribute Questions and those shall be addressed during evaluation.
Reference Form
The Reference Form must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System, reviewed, properly
completed, and uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting the Reference Form. The Reference Form must
be uploaded in Excel format.
Required Confidentiality Claim Form
The Required Confidentiality Claim Form must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System,
reviewed, properly completed, and uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting the Required Confidentiality
Claim Form. This is the only way for Vendor to assert confidentiality of any information submitted.
Conflict of Interest Questionnaire – Form CIQ
Do not upload this form unless you have a reportable conflict with TIPS. There is an Attribute entitled “Conflict of Interest
Questionnaire Requirement” immediately followed by an Attribute entitled “Conflict of Interest Questionnaire Requirement –
Form CIQ – Continued.” Properly respond to those Attributes and only upload this form if applicable/instructed. If upload is
required based on your response to those Attributes, the Conflict of Interest Questionnaire – Form CIQ must be downloaded
from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System, reviewed, properly completed, and uploaded to the “Response
Attachments” section requesting the Conflict of Interest Questionnaire – Form CIQ.
Disclosure of Lobbying Activities – Standard Form - LLL
Do not upload this form unless Vendor has reportable lobbying activities. There are Attributes entitled, “2 CFR Part 200 or
Federal Provision - Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment – Continued.” Properly respond to those Attributes and only upload this
form if applicable/instructed. If upload is required based on your response to those Attributes, the Disclosure of Lobbying
Activities – Standard Form - LLL must be downloaded from the “Attachments” section of the IonWave eBid System, reviewed,
properly completed, and uploaded to the “Response Attachments” section requesting the Disclosure of Lobbying Activities –
Standard Form – LLL.
Current Form W-9
Vendor must upload their current IRS Tax Form W-9. The legal name, EIN, and d/b/a's listed should match the information
provided herein exactly. This form will be utilized by TIPS to properly identify your entity.
Certificates & Licenses (Supplemental Vendor Information Only)
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Optional. If Vendor would like to display any applicable certificates or licenses (including HUB certificates) for TIPS and
TIPS Member Customer consideration, Vendor may upload those at the “Response Attachments” section requesting
“Certificates & Licenses (Supplemental Vendor Information Only).” These supplemental documents shall not be considered
part of the TIPS Contract. Rather, they are Vendor Supplemental Information for marketing and informational purposes only.
Vendor’s Warranties, Terms, and Conditions (Supplemental Vendor Information Only)
Optional. If Vendor would like to display any standard warranties, terms, or conditions which are often applicable to their
offerings for TIPS and TIPS Member Customer consideration, Vendor may upload those at the “Response Attachments” section
requesting “Vendor’s Warranties, Terms, and Conditions (Supplemental Vendor Information Only).” These supplemental
documents shall not be considered part of the TIPS Contract. Rather, they are Vendor Supplemental Information for marketing
and informational purposes only.
Supplemental Vendor Information (Supplemental Vendor Information Only)
Optional. If Vendor would like to display or include any brochures, promotional documents, marketing materials, or other
Vendor Information for TIPS and TIPS Member Customer consideration, Vendor may upload those at the “Response
Attachments” section requesting “Supplemental Vendor Information (Supplemental Vendor Information Only).” These
supplemental documents shall not be considered part of the TIPS Contract. Rather, they are Vendor Supplemental Information
for marketing and informational purposes only.
Vendor Logo (Supplemental Vendor Information Only)
Optional. If Vendor desires that their logo be displayed on their public TIPS profile for TIPS and TIPS Member viewing,
Vendor may upload that logo at the “Response Attachments” section requesting “Vendor Logo (Supplemental Vendor
Information Only).” These supplemental documents shall not be considered part of the TIPS Contract. Rather, they are Vendor
Supplemental Information for marketing and informational purposes only.
IV. SPECIFICATIONS
Category: Office and School Supplies, Products, and Services
Nothing herein is seeking services that are considered a public work/construction. This is a solicitation for goods and non-“public work”
services only.
Specifications.
It is the intention of TIPS, as a Department of Region 8 ESC, to contract with quality vendors to supply office supplies, school supplies,
and related services to public entity and qualifying non-profit TIPS Members in the United States. Proposals shall include, but not be
limited to: all listings of office supplies, school supplies, and other supplies, rentals, and services related to office and school supplies
such as installation, repair, removal, maintenance, trainings, and rental of office and school supplies. Proposals should include all
listings of office supplies, school supplies, and related services that Vendor seeks to offer under the contract. Do not propose offerings
that are not considered office supplies, school supplies, and related services. Accessories and parts to support office and school supply
offerings should be submitted. Servicing of office and school supplies or any service related providing office and school supplies that
vendor seeks to offer under this contract should be submitted.
V. VENDOR PRICING SUBMISSION
Pricing.
Please carefully read all of the following before submitting any pricing questions. All goods and service pricing shall be firm and
calculable at the time of any TIPS Sale and must conform and comply with the Vendor’s original pricing model as proposed in response
to this solicitation. “To-Be-Determined” pricing is prohibited.
Submission of Goods/Items Pricing
TIPS permits Vendors to utilize either or both of the two goods/items pricing proposal options (and sub-options) identified below with
the “Discount-Off Catalog” option being much more optimal, usable, and preferred to the “Cost-Plus Markup Option.” With either or
both options, Vendor is able to update their pricing and add/remove items during the life of the contract. It is Vendor’s responsibility
to ensure that all items listed, whether by description, product number, SKU, UPC or other, fall within the scope of this solicitation
category. Please carefully read the description of both goods/items pricing options directly below:
• Discount-Off Catalog Method
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This goods/items pricing proposal method is highly preferred over the “Cost-Plus Markup Method” because it is versatile and
allows Vendor to efficiently add and update its goods/items pricing and does not automatically prohibit federal fund purchases.
Vendor is asked in the attribute questions within the eBid System to propose a minimum discount off of their catalog pricing.
Please note that Vendor’s “Minimum Percentage Discount Offered” proposed in the attribute questions shall apply to goods
proposed with the exception of limited goods/services specifically identified and excluded from this discount in Vendor’s
original proposal such as a specific item-type with a limited profit margin. Any discount from 0% to 100% is an appropriate
response. A 0% discount is permitted. Then, under this pricing proposal method, Vendor is permitted to provide its “Catalog
Pricing” to TIPS in a number of ways, described below. Please carefully read the following definition of “Catalog Pricing”
which is broad and flexible to the usability benefit of the Vendor.
"Catalog Pricing" is defined as, "The then available list of goods or services, in the most current listing regardless of date, that
takes the form of a catalog, price list, price schedule, shelf-price or other viewable format that:
A. is regularly maintained by the manufacturer or Vendor of an item; and
B. is either published or otherwise available for review by TIPS or a customer during the purchase process;
C. to which the Minimum Percentage Discount proposed by the proposing Vendor may be applied.
Under the “Discount-Off Catalog Method, Vendor may supply TIPS its “Catalog Pricing” through any of the following
methods. Please open the solicitation attachment entitled “Pricing Form 1” at this time and scroll through Sections A and B as
you read this explanation.
Options for Providing Goods/Items “Catalog Pricing” to TIPS:
1. Section “A” of Pricing Form 1 – Providing “Catalog Pricing” through Line-Item Pricing: If Vendor desires to
list the goods/items that you sell by line-item, you are welcome to do so in Section “A” of Pricing Form 1. You are
welcome to modify the columns and column titles as long as TIPS can identify the item’s name and “catalog price.”
Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will be able to update the pricing and
add/remove items as long as you honor any applicable discounts originally proposed.
2. Section “B” of Pricing Form 1 – (1) Catalog Pricing is Included in Proposal: If Vendor already has “Catalog
Pricing” documents or files compiled, Vendor may check this box and include a note directing TIPS to please view
those documents/files. (Ex. X – Please see “Catalog Pricing” in uploaded document entitled “2022-2023 Vendor
Catalog.”) Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will be able to update the
pricing and add/remove items as long as you honor any applicable discounts originally proposed.
3. Section “B” of Pricing Form 1 – (2) Link to Catalog Pricing: If Vendor already has “Catalog Pricing” published
at an online location, Vendor may check this box and include the link to their online “Catalog Pricing.” If a login is
required to access the “Catalog Pricing” located at that link, please provide that login information in the cell to the
right. (Ex. X – Please see “Catalog Pricing” at www.tips-usa.com, login information is Username: TIPS Password:
123456.) Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will be able to update the online
pricing and add/remove items as long as you honor any applicable discounts originally proposed.
4. Section “B” of Pricing Form 1 – (3) Vendor Shall Provide “Catalog Pricing” Upon Request: If Vendor does not
have comprehensive “Catalog Pricing” documents or links readily available, Vendor may check this box ensuring that
such required “Catalog Pricing” will be provided upon request. Per the following example, this option is viable but
may slow down the TIPS Sale process as follows. (Ex. Vendor is awarded and is making its first TIPS Sale to Sunny
ISD, Sunny ISD sends its TIPS PO to TIPS for pricing compliance review. TIPS will then request that Vendor provide
documentation of “Catalog Pricing” for the line items included in the PO before TIPS can process the PO and send to
Vendor for fulfillment.) Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will always be
able to provide the most current pricing for each item but you will still be required to honor any applicable discounts
originally proposed.
• Cost-Plus Markup Method
This goods/items pricing proposal method is not recommended because many TIPS Members are prohibited from utilizing
Vendors with a Cost-Plus Markup Pricing submission, especially when using federal funds. Vendor cannot be listed as
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federally compliant for TIPS purposes if Vendor utilizes this method. If Vendor has read through the entirety of the “Discount-
Off Catalog Method” description above and has determined that none of those options are a possibility, then Vendor may use
this method which will require Vendor to propose a maximum mark-up percentage in this proposal and then provide TIPS with
proof of cost for each item at the time of each TIPS Sale.
Options for Selecting Cost-Plus Markup Method:
1. Section “C” of Pricing Form 1: If Vendor desires to utilize this method, Vendor may enter its maximum markup
percentage the cell provided in Section “C” of Pricing Form 1. Please note that this is a maximum percentage and you
may always have a lesser markup on a TIPS Sale. You will be required to provide proof of cost to TIPS for every
item sold under the TIPS Contract. (Ex. Vendor is awarded and is making its first TIPS Sale to Sunny ISD, Sunny
ISD sends its TIPS PO to TIPS for pricing compliance review. TIPS will then request that Vendor provide
documentation of Vendor’s cost for the line items included in the PO before TIPS can process the PO and send to
Vendor for fulfillment.) Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will always be
able to provide the most current cost for each item but you will not be permitted to sell it to TIPS Members for a
greater markup than what Vendor provides herein.
Submission of Service Pricing
Please note that Vendor’s “Minimum Percentage Discount Offered” proposed in the attribute questions shall apply to services proposed
with the exception of limited goods/services specifically identified and excluded from this discount in Vendor’s original proposal such
as vendor travel passed through at actual cost or GSA allowable rates. If Vendor does not seek to offer services under this contract,
Vendor may type "N/A" on Pricing Form 2 and submit. If Vendor desires to offer services under this TIPS Contract, if awarded, the
“Catalog Pricing” for those services must be included, or properly added, to Vendor’s TIPS “catalog pricing” proposed herein. All
services must be provided in some unit cost (Ex. Per Hour, Per Person, Per Day, etc.). TIPS now restates the definition of “Catalog
Pricing” below for convenience:
"Catalog Pricing" is defined as, "The then available list of goods or services, in the most current listing regardless of date,
that takes the form of a catalog, price list, price schedule, shelf-price or other viewable format that:
D. is regularly maintained by the manufacturer or Vendor of an item; and
E. is either published or otherwise available for review by TIPS or a customer during the purchase process;
F. to which the Minimum Percentage Discount proposed by the proposing Vendor may be applied.
Under the “Discount-Off Catalog Method, Vendor may supply TIPS its “Catalog Pricing” through any of the following
methods. Please open the solicitation attachment entitled “Pricing Form 1” at this time and scroll through Sections A and B as
you read this explanation.
Options for Providing Services “Catalog Pricing” to TIPS:
1. Pricing Form 2 – Providing Service “Catalog Pricing” through Line-Item Pricing: If Vendor desires to list the
services that Vendor sells by line-item, Vendor is welcome to do so in Pricing Form 2. You are welcome to modify
the columns and column titles as long as TIPS can identify the service being offered by name, unit-type, and the
“catalog price” of the service. Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will be
able to update the pricing and add/remove services within the category as long as you honor any applicable discounts
originally proposed.
2. Service Catalog Pricing is Included in Proposal: If Vendor already has service “Catalog Pricing” documents, links,
or files compiled, Vendor may include a note on Pricing Form 2 directing TIPS to please view those
documents/links/files. (Ex. X – Please see “Service “Catalog Pricing” in uploaded document entitled “2022-2023
Vendor Service Pricing.”) Please note that if you are awarded with this type of pricing submission, you will be able
to update the pricing and add/remove services within this category as long as you honor any applicable discounts
originally proposed.
Additional Pricing Terms
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1. Maintaining and Updating TIPS Pricing During Contract. Vendor agrees and understands that for each TIPS Contract that
it is awarded, Vendor submitted, agreed to, and received TIPS’ approval for specific pricing, discounts, and other pricing terms
and incentives which make up Vendor’s TIPS Pricing for that TIPS Contract (“TIPS Pricing”). Vendor may update their
pricing during the life of the contract by highlighting the pricing changes and emailing pricing updates to bids@tips-usa.com
for TIPS consideration/approval. Through this process, Vendor may: (1) add or remove items; (2) add or remove
manufacturer/brands, and; (3) increase or decrease item pricing, as long as “catalog pricing” (or “cost” in very limited
circumstances as described herein) is provided to TIPS upon request and Vendor honors all applicable discounts originally
proposed. Vendor hereby certifies that Vendor shall only offer goods and services through this TIPS Contract if those goods
and services are included in or added to Vendor’s TIPS Pricing and approved by TIPS. TIPS reserves the right to review
Vendor’s pricing update requests as specifically as line-item by line-item to determine compliance. However, Vendor
contractually agrees that all submitted pricing updates shall be within the original terms of the Vendor’s TIPS Pricing (scope,
proposed discounts, price increase limitations, and other pricing terms and incentives originally proposed by Vendor) such that
TIPS may accept Vendors price increase requests as submitted without additional vetting at TIPS discretion.
2. Brands. If a name brand is included in this solicitation, proposals on any reputable manufacturers regularly produced
equipment of such items of a similar nature or similar use which are substantively equivalent will be considered.
3. TIPS Fee Considered. Vendor confirms that all TIPS Pricing includes the TIPS Administration Fee and Vendor will not show
adding the TIPS Administration Fee as a charge or line-item in a TIPS Sale.
4. Vendor’s Self-Imposed Pricing Limitations. Within Vendor’s TIPS Pricing, Vendor may include express, written limitations
on geographical regions, volume of order, expediency, etc., for TIPS consideration and approval, as long as Vendor honors
their applicable TIPS Pricing, proposed discounts, the terms and conditions of this Contract, and the terms and conditions of
any Supplemental Agreement entered into directly with the customer TIPS Member. (Example: If Vendor sells nationally but
a specific product can only be sold in Texas. Or, if Vendor can offer Members a greater discount if they purchase 50 items or
more in one purchase, etc.)
5. Shipping Cost, Bond Cost, and Taxes. TIPS fees are not assessed to Vendors for shipping cost, required bond cost, or any
taxes that may be applicable as long as they can be identified as separate line-items. For that reason, TIPS encourages Vendors
not to include shipping price, bond price, or taxes within the TIPS “catalog pricing” for an item. If it is included in the TIPS
price, TIPS will have no way to differentiate and the TIPS Administration fee will be assessed on the total.
VI. PROPOSAL SCORING AND EVALUATION
TIPS evaluates and scores all responsive, properly submitted proposals. Recommendations for award will be made to the Region 8
Education Service Center Board of Directors. Awards are ratified or rejected at the monthly meeting of Region 8 ESC Board of Directors,
or as delegated by the Board of Directors. TIPS utilizes a value approach and bases its award recommendations on several factors
mandated by the Texas Education Code section §44.031. The factors are allotted points as described herein. TIPS reserves the right to
assign or deduct any number of points in any given category if warranted due to insufficient response or Vendor stipulated exceptions
and limitations. TIPS reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or any part of any proposal. TIPS is the sole arbiter of scoring.
TIPS reserves the right to award multiple vendors for each solicitation.
The following evaluation criteria are mandated for consideration by Texas Education Code § 44.031 (b).
1. Purchase Price: (22) Points. Vendor shall submit, pursuant to the instructions included herein, specific pricing, discounts,
and other pricing terms and incentives which make up Vendor’s “TIPS Pricing.” Points will be assigned based on the specific
pricing as it relates to the current market, the discounts, and the other pricing terms and incentives proposed by Vendor.
2. Reputation of Vendor and Vendor’s Offerings: (3) Points. Points will be assigned based on Vendor’s references, to be
submitted as instructed herein, any past history with Vendor, and any other information available to TIPS regarding Vendor’s
reputation.
3. Quality of Vendor’s Offerings: (21.5) Points. Points will be assigned based on Vendor’s references, to be submitted as
instructed herein, any past history with Vendor, and any other information available to TIPS regarding the quality of Vendor’s
goods.
4. Total Long-Term Cost to TIPS/TIPS Members to Acquire the Vendor's Offerings: (10) Points. Points will be assigned
based on Vendor’s response to the Attribute entitled, “Honoring Vendor’s Minimum Discount Percentage.” If Vendor
responds, “Yes”, agreeing to honor their proposed TIPS Minimum Percentage Discount for the duration of the contract, Vendor
will be awarded the maximum 10 points. A “No” response refusing to honor that proposed discount will be awarded 0 points.
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5. Extent to Which the Offerings Meet the Needs: (21.5) Points. Points will be assigned based on whether the offerings
proposed by Vendor fall within the scope of and meet the TIPS Member needs described in this solicitation.
6. Vendor’s Past Relationship: (10) Points. Points will be assigned based on Vendor’s past relationship with TIPS as an
awarded TIPS Vendor. No past relationship with TIPS as an awarded TIPS Vendor will score 5 points, a poor past relationship
with TIPS as an awarded TIPS Vendor will score 0-4 points, and a good past relationship with TIPS as TIPS Awarded Vendor
will score 6-10 points.
7. Impact on the Ability of TIPS Members to Comply with Laws and Rules Relating to Historically Underutilized
Businesses (“HUB’s”): (2) Points. Points are assigned if, where applicable herein, Vendor agrees that if they anticipate
subcontracting under this award, they will abide by the required affirmative steps provided in 2 CFR 200. Please see the
corresponding Attribute Questions regarding, “Subcontracting and Affirmative Steps for Small and Minority Businesses,
Women's Business Enterprises, and Labor Surplus Area Firms.” A response that Vendor does anticipate subcontracting but
does not agree to the federal subcontracting practices will give Vendor 0 points for this category and deem Vendor unacceptable
to receive federal funds under this contract, any other responses accurate responses will give Vendor 2 points for this category.
8. Experience: (10) Points. Points will be assigned based on the number of years proposing Vendor has been operating the
proposing business in this capacity as presented in response to the corresponding attribute question seeking the same. <2 years
will receive 1 point, 2-3 years will receive 5 points, 4-5 years will receive 8 points, and > 5 years will receive 10 points.
9. Residency: 0 Points. For a contract for goods and services, other than goods and services related to telecommunications and
information services, building construction and maintenance, or instructional materials, whether the vendor or the vendor's
ultimate parent company or majority owner: A. has its principal place of business in this state; or B. employs at least 500
persons in this state. Vendor’s response to the corresponding attribute question will be considered, as required by law, but no
points shall be assigned because federal funds may be utilized by TIPS Members, and residency is a prohibited criterion under
federal regulation.
PROPOSERS FALLING BELOW AN 70-POINT THRESHOLD WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR AN AWARD.
VII. TERMS & CONDITIONS
1. Incorporation of Solicitation. As previously stated, if Vendor proposes and is awarded, the specifications, terms, and
conditions of this solicitation shall be incorporated by reference into the final, awarded TIPS Contract. In the event of conflict
between the terms herein and the final Vendor Agreement, the terms and conditions which are in the best interest of
governmental/qualifying non-profit TIPS Members shall control at TIPS sole discretion.
2. Deviations. If Vendor has proposed deviations to TIPS’ standard terms, there is an Attribute Question where Vendor can assert
that it has proposed negotiations. If Vendor responds to that attribute question asserting deviations, after this solicitation legally
closes and TIPS begins evaluating Vendor's file, TIPS will provide Vendor with a draft Word Document Vendor Agreement
and instruct Vendor to include all requested negotiations as redline edits for TIPS consideration. This is the only proper way
to submit proposed deviations for TIPS consideration. TIPS reserves the right to accept, decline, or modify Vendor's requested
negotiated terms. For this reason, asserting deviations or negotiations may ultimately delay or prevent award.
3. Term of the Agreement. This Agreement with TIPS is for approximately three years with a one-year, consecutive option for
renewal as described herein. Renewal options are not automatic and shall only be effective if offered by TIPS at its sole
discretion. If TIPS offers a renewal option, the Vendor will be notified via email issued to Vendor’s then-listed Primary
Contact. The renewal option shall be deemed accepted by Vendor unless Vendor notifies TIPS of its objection to the renewal
option in writing and confirms receipt by TIPS.
Actual Effective Date: Agreement is effective upon signature by authorized representatives of both Parties. The Effective
Date does not affect the “Term Calculation Start Date.”
Term Calculation Start Date: To keep the contract term consistent for all vendors awarded under a single TIPS contract,
Vendor shall calculate the foregoing term as starting on the last day of the month that “Award Notifications” are anticipated as
published in the Solicitation, regardless of the actual Effective Date.
Example of Term Calculation Start Date: If the anticipated “Award Date” published in the Solicitation is May 22, 2023,
but extended negotiations delay award until June 27, 2023 (Actual Effective Date), the Term Calculation Start Date shall be
May 31, 2023 in this example.
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Contract Expiration Date: To keep the contract term consistent for all vendors awarded under a single TIPS contract, the
term expiration date shall be three-years from the Term Calculation Start Date.
Example of Contract Expiration Date: If the anticipated “Award Date” published in the Solicitation is May 22, 2023, but
extended negotiations delay award until June 27, 2023 (Actual Effective Date), the Term Calculation Start Date shall be May
31, 2023 and the Contract Expiration Date of the resulting initial “three-year” term, (which is subject to an extension(s)) will
be May 31, 2026 in this example.
Option(s) for Renewal: Any option(s) for renewal shall begin on the Contract Expiration Date, or the date of the expiration
of the prior renewal term where applicable, and continue for the duration specified for the renewal option herein.
Example of Option(s) for Renewal: In this example, if TIPS offers a one-year renewal and the Contract Expiration Date is
May 31, 2026, then the one-year renewal is effective from May 31, 2026 to May 31, 2027.
TIPS may offer to extend Vendor Agreements to the fullest extent the TIPS Solicitation resulting in this Agreement permits.
4. Termination. If awarded, TIPS reserves the right to terminate the resulting agreement for cause or no cause for convenience
with a thirty (30) days prior written notice. This Agreement may be terminated for cause by either party if the other party
breaches the terms or materially defaults on the performance of any of its duties or obligations set forth herein ,provided that
such default is not cured within thirty (30) days, or as otherwise may be agreed to by both parties, after written notice is given
to the defaulting party by the non-defaulting party which specifies the faulty performance and acceptable means of correction.
In such event, termination of the Agreement shall be effective as of the date specified in such notice of such termination. Upon
termination, all TIPS Sale orders previously accepted by Vendor shall be fulfilled and Vendor shall be paid for all TIPS Sales
executed pursuant to the applicable terms. All TIPS Sale orders presented to Vendor but not fulfilled by Vendor, prior to the
actual termination of this agreement shall be honored at the option of the TIPS Member. TIPS shall submit to Vendor an invoice
for any outstanding TIPS Administration Fees and approved expenses and Vendor shall pay such fees and expenses within 30
calendar days of receipt of such valid TIPS invoice. Vendor acknowledges and agrees that continued participation in TIPS is
subject to TIPS’ sole discretion and that any Vendor may be removed from the TIPS program at any time with or without cause.
This termination clause does not affect TIPS Sales Supplemental Agreements pursuant to this term regarding termination and
the Survival Clause term.
5. TIPS Pricing. Vendor agrees and understands that for each TIPS Contract that it holds, Vendor submitted, agreed to, and
received TIPS’ approval for specific pricing, discounts, and other pricing terms and incentives which make up Vendor’s TIPS
Pricing for that TIPS Contract (“TIPS Pricing”). Vendor confirms that Vendor will not add the TIPS Administration Fee as a
charge or line-item in a TIPS Sale. Vendor hereby certifies that Vendor shall only offer goods and services through this TIPS
Contract if those goods and services are included in or added to Vendor’s TIPS Pricing and approved by TIPS. TIPS reserves
the right to review Vendor’s pricing update requests as specifically as line-item by line-item to determine compliance.
However, Vendor contractually agrees that all submitted pricing updates shall be within the original terms of the Vendor’s
TIPS Pricing (scope, proposed discounts, price increase limitations, and other pricing terms and incentives originally proposed
by Vendor) such that TIPS may accept Vendors price increase requests as submitted without additional vetting at TIPS
discretion. Any pricing quoted by Vendor to a TIPS Member or on a TIPS Quote shall never exceed Vendor’s TIPS Pricing for
any good or service offered through TIPS. Vendor certifies by signing this agreement that Vendor’s TIPS Pricing for all goods
and services included in Vendor’s TIPS Pricing shall either be equal to or less than Vendor’s current pricing for that good or
service for any other customer. TIPS Pricing price increases and modifications, if permitted, will be honored according to the
terms of the solicitation and Vendor’s proposal, incorporated herein by reference.
6. Initiation of TIPS Sales. If awarded, when a public entity initiates a purchase with Vendor under this resulting contract, if the
Member inquires verbally or in writing whether Vendor holds a TIPS Contract, it is the duty of the Vendor to verify whether
the Member is seeking a TIPS purchase. Once verified, Vendor must include the TIPS Contract Number on all purchase
communications and sales documents exchanged with the TIPS Member.
7. TIPS Sales and Supplemental Agreements. If awarded, when making a sale under this awarded contract, the terms of the
specific TIPS order, including but not limited to: shipping, freight, insurance, delivery, fees, bonding, cost, delivery
expectations and location, returns, refunds, terms, conditions, cancellations, order assistance, etc., shall be controlled by the
purchase agreement (Purchase Order, Contract, Invoice, etc.) (hereinafter “Supplemental Agreement”) entered into between
the TIPS Member Customer and Vendor only. TIPS is not a party to any Supplemental Agreement. All Supplemental
Agreements shall include Vendor’s Name, as known to TIPS, and TIPS Contract Name and Number. Vendor accepts and
understands that TIPS is not a legal party to TIPS Sales and Vendor is solely responsible for identifying fraud, mistakes,
unacceptable terms, or misrepresentations for the specific order prior to accepting. Vendor agrees that any order issued from a
customer to Vendor, even when processed through TIPS, constitutes a legal contract between the customer and Vendor only.
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When Vendor accepts or fulfills an order, even when processed through TIPS Vendor is representing that Vendor has carefully
reviewed the order for legality, authenticity, and accuracy and TIPS shall not be liable or responsible for the same. In the event
of a conflict between the terms of this TIPS Vendor Agreement document and those contained in any attachment, the provisions
set forth herein shall control unless otherwise agreed to by the Parties in writing.
8. Payment for TIPS Sales. TIPS Members may make payments for TIPS Sales directly to Vendor, Vendor’s Authorized
Reseller, or as otherwise agreed to in the applicable Supplemental Agreement after receipt of the invoice and in compliance
with applicable payment statutes. Regardless of how payment is issued or received for a TIPS Sale. Vendor is responsible for
all reporting and TIPS Administration Fee payment requirements as required by the TIPS Contract.
9. Right of Refusal. If awarded, Vendor has the right not to sell to a TIPS Member under the awarded agreement at Vendor’s
discretion unless otherwise required by law.
10. Reporting TIPS Sales. If awarded, Vendor must report all TIPS Sales to TIPS. If a TIPS sale is initiated by Vendor receiving
a TIPS Member’s purchase order from TIPS directly, Vendor may consider that specific TIPS Sale reported. Otherwise, with
the exception of TIPS Automated Vendors, who have signed an exclusive agreement with TIPS regarding reporting, all TIPS
Sales must be reported to TIPS by either: (1) Emailing the purchase order or similar purchase document (with Vendor’s Name,
as known to TIPS, and the TIPS Contract Name and Number included) to TIPS at tipspo@tips-usa.com with “Confirmation
Only” in the subject line of the email within three business days of Vendor’s acceptance of the order, or; (2) Within 3 business
days of the order being accepted by Vendor, Vendor must login to the TIPS Vendor Portal and successfully self-report all
necessary sale information within the Vendor Portal and confirm that it shows up accurately on your current Vendor Portal
statement. No other method of reporting is acceptable unless agreed to by the Parties in writing. Failure to report all sales
pursuant to this provision may result in immediate cancellation of Vendor’s TIPS Contract(s) for cause at TIPS’ sole discretion.
Please refer to the TIPS Accounting FAQ’s for more information about reporting sales and if you have further questions,
contact the Accounting Team at accounting@tips-usa.com.
11. TIPS Administration Fees. The collection of administrative fees by TIPS, a government entity, for performance of these
procurement services is required pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 791.011 et. seq. The administration fee (“TIPS
Administration Fee”) is the amount legally owed by Vendor to TIPS for TIPS Sales made by Vendor. The TIPS Administration
Fee amount is typically a set percentage of the amount paid by the TIPS Member for each TIPS Sale, less shipping cost, bond
cost, and taxes if applicable and identifiable, which is legally due to TIPS, but the exact TIPS Administration Fee for this
Contract is published herein. TIPS Administration Fees are due to TIPS immediately upon Vendor’s receipt of payment,
including partial payment, for a TIPS Sale. The TIPS Administration Fee is assessed on the amount paid by the TIPS Member,
not on the Vendor’s cost or on the amount for which the Vendor sold the item to a dealer or Authorized Reseller. Upon receipt
of payment for a TIPS Sale, including partial payment (which renders TIPS Administration Fees immediately due), Vendor
shall issue to TIPS the corresponding TIPS Administration Fee payment as soon as possible but not later than thirty-one
calendar days following Vendor’s receipt of payment. Vendor shall pay TIPS via check unless otherwise agreed to by the
Parties in writing. Vendor shall include clear documentation with the issued payment dictating to which sale(s) the amount
should be applied. Vendor may create a payment report within their TIPS Vendor Portal which is the preferred documentation
dictating to which TIPS Sale(s) the amount should be applied. Failure to pay all TIPS Administration Fees pursuant to this
provision may result in immediate cancellation of Vendor’s TIPS Contract(s) for cause at TIPS’ sole discretion as well as the
initiation of collection and legal actions by TIPS against Vendor to the extent permitted by law. Any overpayment of
participation fees to TIPS by Vendor will be refunded to the Vendor within ninety (90) days of receipt of notification if TIPS
receives written notification of the overpayment not later than the expiration of six (6) months from the date of overpayment
and TIPS determines that the amount was not legally due to TIPS pursuant to this agreement and applicable law. Any
notification of overpayment received by TIPS after the expiration of six (6) months from the date that TIPS received the
payment will render the overpayment non-refundable. Region 8 ESC and TIPS reserve the right to extend the six (6) month
deadline if approved by the Region 8 ESC Board of Directors. TIPS reserves all rights under the law to collect TIPS
Administration Fees due to TIPS pursuant to this Agreement.
12. Confidentiality of Vendor Data. Vendor understands and agrees that by signing this Agreement, all Vendor Data is hereby
released to TIPS, TIPS Members, and TIPS third-party administrators to effectuate Vendor’s TIPS Contract except as provided
for herein. The Parties agree that Vendor Data is accessible by all TIPS Members as if submitted directly to that TIPS Member
Customer for purchase consideration. If Vendor otherwise considers any portion of Vendor’s Data to be confidential and not
subject to public disclosure pursuant to Chapter 552 Texas Gov’t Code (the “Public Information Act”) or other law(s) and
orders, Vendor must have identified the claimed confidential materials through proper execution of the Confidentiality Claim
Form which is required to be submitted as part of Vendor’s proposal resulting in this Agreement and incorporated by reference.
The Confidentiality Claim Form included in Vendor’s proposal and incorporated herein by reference is the sole indicator of
whether Vendor considers any Vendor Data confidential in the event TIPS receives a Public Information Request. If TIPS
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receives a request, any responsive documentation not deemed confidential by you in this manner will be automatically released.
For Vendor Data deemed confidential by you in this manner, TIPS will follow procedures of controlling statute(s) regarding
any claim of confidentiality and shall not be liable for any release of information required by law, including Attorney General
determination and opinion. In the event that TIPS receives a written request for information pursuant to the Public Information
Act that affects Vendor’s interest in any information or data furnished to TIPS by Vendor, and TIPS requests an opinion from
the Attorney General, Vendor may, at its own option and expense, prepare comments and submit information directly to the
Attorney General stating why the requested information is exempt from disclosure pursuant to the requirements of the Public
Information Act. Vendor is solely responsible for submitting the memorandum brief and information to the Attorney General
within the time period prescribed by the Public Information Act. Notwithstanding any other information provided in this
solicitation or Vendor designation of certain Vendor Data as confidential or proprietary, Vendor’s acceptance of this TIPS
Vendor Agreement constitutes Vendor’s consent to the disclosure of Vendor’s Data, including any information deemed
confidential or proprietary, to TIPS Members or as ordered by a Court or government agency, including without limitation the
Texas Attorney General. Vendor agrees that TIPS shall not be responsible or liable for any use or distribution of information
or documentation by TIPS Members or as required by law.
13. Conflicts of Interest. Vendor confirms that they have not offered, given, or accepted, nor intend to give at any time hereafter
any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, service to the other in
connection with this Agreement. Vendor affirms that, to the best of Vendor’s knowledge, its proposal has been arrived at
independently, and is awarded without collusion with anyone to obtain information or gain any favoritism that would in any
way limit competition or give an unfair advantage over other vendors in the award of this Agreement. Vendor agrees that it
will/has disclosed any necessary affiliations with Region 8 Education Service Center and the TIPS Department, if any, through
the Conflict of Interest attachment provided in the solicitation.
14. Volume of TIPS Sales. Nothing in this Agreement or any TIPS communication may be construed as a guarantee that TIPS or
TIPS Members will submit any TIPS orders to Vendor at any time.
15. Exclusivity. Any award under this solicitation is non-exclusive and TIPS reserves the right to award multiple vendors or not
award any vendors. TIPS reserves the right to re-issue a solicitation or solicit the same or similar solicitation categories for
additional similar awards at any time at TIPS sole discretion.
16. Best and Final Offer. Vendor’s proposal shall be their best and final offer although deviations may be addressed and Vendor’s
TIPS Pricing may be updated as provided for herein.
17. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY – Waiver. BY SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL, OFFERER EXPRESSLY AGREES TO
WAIVE ANY CLAIM IT HAS OR MAY HAVE AGAINST BOTH THE INTERLOCAL PURCHASING SYSTEM REGION
8 EDUCATION SERVICE CENTER, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, ITS TRUSTEES, OR AGENTS ARISING OUT OF
OR IN CONNECTION WITH (1) THE ADMINISTRATION, EVALUATION, RECOMMENDATION OF ANY
PROPOSAL; (2) ANY REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE SOLICITATION, PROPOSAL PACKAGE, OR RELATED
DOCUMENTS; (3) THE REJECTION OF ANY PROPOSAL OR ANY PART OF ANY PROPOSAL; AND/OR (4) THE
AWARD OF AN AGREEMENT, IF ANY. NEITHER REGION 8 ESC NOR TIPS SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE
FOR ANY COSTS INCURRED BY PROPOSERS OR THE SELECTED CONTRACTOR IN CONNECTION WITH
RESPONDING TO THE SOLICITATION, PREPARING FOR ORAL PRESENTATIONS, PREPARING AND
SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL, ENTERING OR NEGOTIATING THE TERMS OF AN AGREEMENT, OR ANY OTHER
EXPENSES INCURRED BY A PROPOSER. THE PROPOSER OR SELECTED CONTRACTOR IS WHOLLY
RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SUCH COSTS AND EXPENSES AND SHALL NOT BE REIMBURSED IN ANY MANNER
BY REGION 8 ESC OR TIPS.
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