Hilton University of Florida Conference Center Gainesville | Request for Sole Source

Project Summary The North East Florida Educational Consortium (NEFEC), in collaboration with the Florida Department of Education (FDOE), requests Sole Source approval for agreements with the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center in Gainesville to host the 2026 Bureau of Standards and Instructional Support (BSIS) Content Development Meetings. These meetings, scheduled for February and April 2026, will bring together education professionals to develop curriculum and standards for statewide implementation. The Hilton University of Florida Conference Center was selected and approved by the Florida Department of Education due to its documented success in hosting comparable events, confirmed availability for the specified dates, and demonstrated ability to fulfill all logistical and programmatic requirements. The proposed daily rates of $159 to $169 per night are below the state per diem of $225, thereby ensuring cost efficiency while maintaining quality and convenience for attendees. The justification for this Sole Source request is based on the facility’s unique alignment with the Florida Department of Education’s requirements, its established partnership with the Department, and its proven capacity to provide reliable, professional event support. This support minimizes planning risk and ensures continuity for statewide educational initiatives. Procurement Details Estimated Value: The total cost will be determined based on lodging, meeting space, and service expenses, which are funded by the Florida Department of Education's Bureau of Standards and Instructional Support. (Years): One-year term, covering the February and April 2026 events Vendor: Hilton Justification: Sole Source selection is based on the Florida Department of Education’s direct request, the venue’s documented history of successful events, confirmed availability, compliance with per diem limits, and extensive experience supporting professional learning events for the Department.Experience supporting FDOE professional learning events