University of Maine System Data Transport Services for Networkmaine - RFP #2027-029 (2026)
University Of MaineHigher Ed · Orono, ME- Due
- Dec 18, 2026
- 51 days left
- Posted
- Oct 1, 2026
- Contract term
- 4 years
- Primary contact
- Destiny Long
The 30-second brief
The University of Maine System, acting on behalf of Networkmaine, seeks proposals for data transport services to provide in-state transport services to approximately 900 K-20 schools, libraries, state and local governments, and research institutions participating in MaineREN. The project entails fiber-optic based network solutions, including Carrier Ethernet service and Dark Fiber service, connecting entities to University Points of Presence (PoPs) in Orono, Portland, and other regional locations. The resulting contract will have an initial term of four years for Exhibit I sites and three years for Exhibit II sites, with four optional one-year renewals. Services for each site will begin on either July 1, 2027 or July 1, 2028. Responses are due by December 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST, submitted electronically to [email protected]. Written inquiries are due by November 9, 2026. Respondents must comply with Federal E-Rate program requirements, maintain a Service Provider Annual Certification (SPAC), and adhere to specific technical, security, and location provisions.
Cost Evaluation (30), Master Agreement (10), Organization, Qualifications, Experience and References (10), Location Provisions (15), Implementation, Support and Federal Universal Service Fund E-Rate Program Participation & Compliance (15), Information Technology (20), Information Technology Security (Pass/Fail)
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Summary
The University of Maine System, acting on behalf of Networkmaine, seeks proposals for data transport services to provide in-state transport services to approximately 900 K-20 schools, libraries, state and local governments, and research institutions participating in MaineREN. The project entails fiber-optic based network solutions, including Carrier Ethernet service and Dark Fiber service, connecting entities to University Points of Presence (PoPs) in Orono, Portland, and other regional locations.
The resulting contract will have an initial term of four years for Exhibit I sites and three years for Exhibit II sites, with four optional one-year renewals. Services for each site will begin on either July 1, 2027 or July 1, 2028. Responses are due by December 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST, submitted electronically to [email protected]. Written inquiries are due by November 9, 2026. Respondents must comply with Federal E-Rate program requirements, maintain a Service Provider Annual Certification (SPAC), and adhere to specific technical, security, and location provisions.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Cost Evaluation (30), Master Agreement (10), Organization, Qualifications, Experience and References (10), Location Provisions (15), Implementation, Support and Federal Universal Service Fund E-Rate Program Participation & Compliance (15), Information Technology (20), Information Technology Security (Pass/Fail)
REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS
5- University of Maine System Response Cover Page
- Debarment
- Performance and Non-Collusion Certification
- Required Cost Evaluation Exhibits
- Organization Reference Form
- Submit to
- [email protected]
- Duration
- 48 months
- Scope location
- Augusta, ME
- Reported agency
- University of Maine System
Questions about this RFP
How do I respond to this RFP from University Of Maine?
Review the full solicitation document for submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and deadlines. The submission deadline is December 18, 2026. Be sure to include all required attachments as outlined in the solicitation. Submissions should be delivered to: [email protected]. For questions, contact Destiny Long.
Can small businesses or minority-owned firms bid on this RFP?
Most government agencies, including University Of Maine in ME, encourage participation from small businesses, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MBE/WBE/DBE). Check the full solicitation for any small business participation goals.
What happens after the RFP submission deadline?
After the deadline, the issuing agency reviews all submissions against the stated evaluation criteria. This typically includes a compliance check, technical evaluation, cost analysis, and may involve oral presentations with shortlisted vendors.
Can I ask questions about this solicitation before submitting?
Yes, most solicitations allow vendors to submit questions during a designated period. The primary contact is Destiny Long. Questions and answers are typically shared with all prospective bidders.
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What are the evaluation criteria for this solicitation?
This solicitation includes specific evaluation criteria that will be used to score proposals. The criteria include: "Cost Evaluation (30), Master Agreement (10), Organization, Qualifications, Experience and References (10), Location Provisions (15), Implementation, Support and Federal Universal Service Fund E-Rate P..." Vendors should carefully align their proposals with each criterion to maximize their score.
Where can I find more RFPs from University Of Maine?
All active and historical solicitations from University Of Maine are tracked and searchable. As a higher ed agency, University Of Maine regularly publishes solicitations. Visit the agency profile to see current open bids, past contracts, vendor relationships, and decision-maker contacts.
What is the contract term for this solicitation?
The anticipated contract term is 4 years. Contract terms may include renewal options.
Is this solicitation still open for submissions?
Based on the posted deadline of December 18, 2026, this solicitation appears to still be accepting submissions. Deadlines may change through amendments or addenda, so always verify the current status directly with the issuing agency before preparing your response.
What documents are required to bid on this RFP?
Requirements vary by solicitation, but common documents include a technical proposal, cost/price proposal, proof of insurance, relevant certifications, past performance references, and any forms specified in the solicitation. This solicitation specifically requires the following attachments: University of Maine System Response Cover Page, Debarment, Performance and Non-Collusion Certification, Required Cost Evaluation Exhibits, Organization Reference Form. Review the full document from University Of Maine for the complete list.
What is the scope of this project?
This solicitation defines a specific project scope. The scope covers the following locations: Augusta, ME. Review the full solicitation for detailed scope requirements.