Enterprise Backup Storage Refresh

Ferris State University is seeking qualified vendors to replace its aging Commvault backup infrastructure at both its primary data center and disaster recovery site in Michigan, as part of an enterprise storage refresh initiative under solicitation number 27-001. The current hardware appliances have reached end-of-life and end-of-support status, necessitating a full modernization of the university’s data protection environment. The required solution must include new Commvault-compatible hardware, software, licensing, and full implementation services to ensure seamless migration with minimal disruption to existing operations. A critical component of the proposal must be the integration of Commvault Cloud Air Gap Protect to provide a secure, isolated disaster recovery target that enhances cyber resilience and ransomware recovery capabilities. The vendor must demonstrate proven expertise in Commvault deployments, enterprise backup appliance implementations, and cloud-based air-gapped solutions, ensuring compatibility with existing workflows and systems. All equipment and services must be delivered, installed, and commissioned at the two Michigan-based locations, with acceptance occurring upon successful deployment and validation. The solicitation does not specify a contract value, delivery schedule, or FOB terms, and vendors are expected to submit their own pricing and technical approach through the Public Purchase portal by the deadline of July 24, 2026. While no formal evaluation factors, weights, or adjectival ratings are provided, the university will award the contract based on the best interest of the institution, implying a trade-off analysis considering technical merit, cybersecurity capabilities, and cost. No formal FAR clauses, inspection criteria, packaging requirements, or accounting data are included in the solicitation, and there are no specified socioeconomic set-asides, security clearances, or key personnel requirements. Vendors must ensure compliance with general expectations of industry best practices and Commvault-recommended standards. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the designated portal, with no restrictions on file format or size, and paper submissions are permitted if directed by the agency. The point of contact for inquiries is Adam Phillips, and all performance and delivery obligations are confined to Michigan-based university facilities.