24oz. Water Bottle w/ Breastfeeding Message

The Maryland Department of Health, through the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration WIC Program, is seeking a certified small business vendor to supply 10,000 customized, reusable 24 fluid ounce water bottles with flip-straw lids. These bottles, which must feature customized graphics and silicone band messages to promote breastfeeding and hydration, are intended for distribution to WIC participants. The total all-inclusive bid cost must not exceed 40,000 dollars, and delivery must be completed by March 1st to the WIC Distribution Center in Hagerstown, Maryland. This procurement follows a multi-step competitive sealed bidding process where technical offers are first evaluated as acceptable or unacceptable, and the award is subsequently granted to the responsive and responsible bidder with the lowest price. To be considered responsive, bidders must provide a product sample, a hard-copy artwork proof, and a manufacturer's letter of guarantee or test report certifying FDA compliance for food contact use. Additionally, bidders must submit evidence of fiscal integrity, such as financial statements from the last two years, and complete several required certifications, including a W-9 and a Conflict-of-Interest Affidavit. Strict packaging and shipping standards are required, including a maximum carton weight of 40 lbs and mandatory palletization for orders exceeding 10 cartons or 200 lbs using Grade A GMA four-way pallets. Invoices are to be submitted via email and will be processed after the product has been delivered and accepted. This is a Small Business Reserve Procurement, meaning the award is limited to vendors certified by the Governor's Office of Small, Minority and Women Business Affairs.