SBE Managed Security Services (Security Operations Center)

The Maryland State Board of Elections is seeking a qualified contractor to deliver comprehensive Managed Security Services, including Managed Defense Services, for its data center and endpoint infrastructure. The contract, valued between $500,000 and $2,000,000, is set for a one-year period from January 1, 2026, to December 30, 2026, with the initial deployment of services for the data center expected to be operational by January 7, 2026, and subsequent transition of services for other networks and endpoints completed by January 14, 2026. The scope of work emphasizes continuous, 24/7 threat monitoring, detection, alerting, and lightweight response capabilities to identify and mitigate potential cybersecurity threats promptly, thereby minimizing risks to the integrity and security of SBE’s information assets. The solicitation specifies that the contractor must demonstrate extensive experience, with at least eight years in Security Operations Center (SOC) or Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services, and operate from a U.S.-based headquarters with SOC II certification for their data centers. Proposals are expected to include detailed descriptions of corporate capabilities, staffing qualifications, security methodologies, and implementation strategies. The procurement process also involves a non-disclosure agreement to protect sensitive information, requiring interested parties to submit their NDA before receiving detailed architectural information necessary for proposal development. The overall goal is to ensure robust, continuous cybersecurity monitoring and rapid response to safeguard Maryland’s election-related information systems.