KSU Dining Catering Services

Kennesaw State University is seeking qualified secondary catering providers through a Request for Proposal to supplement its internal dining services across both the Kennesaw and Marietta campuses in Georgia. The contract aims to expand capacity and offer specialized culinary options, including culturally specific cuisines and dietary accommodations, that go beyond the scope of KSU Hospitality Services, which remains the primary caterer. Vendors must have at least three years of catering experience and be available seven days a week to handle events ranging from small meetings to large formal receptions, with the ability to respond to last-minute requests. All proposals must adhere strictly to the Checklist of Required Documents and include mandatory submissions such as the Cost Worksheet, Certificate of Insurance, Contractor Affidavit, E-Verify Affidavit, Certificate of Non-Collusion, Conflict of Interest Statement, and Tax Compliance Form, all uploaded via the Team Georgia Marketplace™ portal by the deadline of July 21, 2026. Proposals will be evaluated through pass/fail gates based on completeness of documentation, with no specific weightings disclosed, and the award is anticipated to be a multiple-vendor contract, with the final number determined post-evaluation and negotiation. Caterers are required to provide formal and informal services including VIP meals, seated dining, buffets, boxed meals, continental breakfasts, athletics events, and per-diem meals, all subject to strict food safety standards aligned with HACCP principles, where any violation may result in immediate contract termination. Services must be delivered without using KSU-owned facilities or equipment without prior written permission, and vendors must supply all necessary tools for safe transport and service. Pricing must remain fixed for 120 days after submission, and future contract renewals will adjust prices based on the CPI for Food Away From Home. Invoicing is managed directly between the caterer and the event host, though KSU Hospitality Services may act as a liaison, and caterers must ensure all invoices are accurate and responsive regardless of the payer. Performance is monitored through random inspections, and failure to meet standards—such as inadequate staffing, improper food temperatures, or failing to restore event sites to original condition—will trigger immediate corrective action at no additional cost and may lead to penalties or termination. Contractors must also comply with state laws, including the Georgia State Purchasing Act, and submit required affidavits addressing anti-lobbying, debarment, subcontracting, and trade secrets.