For public procurement professionals, simplified access to high-quality contracts means amplified community impact.

For the 11th year in a row, Sourcewell has earned the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (AEP) Award for helping these professionals do just that.

"Public procurement is about more than checking boxes,” said Jeremy Schwartz, Chief Operating and Procurement Officer. “It's about creating better outcomes for agencies and their communities. Our team designs every Sourcewell contract to help public agencies reduce administrative effort and make purchasing more efficient."

The AEP Award recognizes organizational excellence in public procurement. Awardees are selected based on innovation, professionalism, productivity, leadership, and e-procurement practices.

"Public agencies are entrusted with solving some of their communities' most important challenges," said Dr. Chad Coauette, CEO of Sourcewell. "As a fellow public agency, we understand that responsibility. We're proud to work alongside our clients as a trusted partner and problem-solver. Helping agencies navigate procurement challenges lets them focus on community needs. Earning this award for the 11th year in a row reflects the trust our clients place in Sourcewell. It's a testament to the dedication and expertise of our employees."

Sourcewell’s Cooperative Purchasing program gives public employees local dealer access with national buying power. Products and services are often provided through local dealers or representatives. This empowers agencies to buy local and benefit from national-scale contracts and pricing. It keeps taxpayer dollars in their community while improving efficiency and expanding capacity. Sourcewell contracts can be used to buy equipment, office supplies, technology, and services that support local communities.

Established in 1995, the AEP Award, presented by the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI), is open to all public and nonprofit organizations. The program’s comprehensive criteria promote continuous improvement and elevate procurement as a vital contributor to good governance.

View the full 2026 AEP recipients list on the NPI website.

Great workplaces don’t happen by accident. They’re built by fostering trust, purpose, and connection.  

For the 11th year in a row, Sourcewell was recognized as a Star Tribune Top Workplace in Minnesota. Sourcewell was ranked No. 18 among the 73 organizations recognized in the midsize category (150-499 employees). The award makes the third year in a row the organization has placed in the top 20. 

This recognition is based entirely on employee feedback. It reflects a culture where employees feel connected to their work, supported in their growth, and empowered to make an impact. 

This is the 10th workplace award Sourcewell has received in 2026, with eight awards highlighting its culture. Most recently, the organization was placed on the 2026 USA Today Top Workplaces list for the third year in a row.  

Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette emphasized that while the award names Sourcewell, the achievement belongs to the organization's employees. 

“An award like this isn't about one moment in time,” said Coauette. “It reflects thousands of everyday interactions, decisions and relationships. Our employees are the reason Sourcewell continues to shine. They care deeply about our mission, support one another, and look for ways to better serve our members and communities. It's their efforts that make Sourcewell a place where people are encouraged to contribute and make a lasting impact.”  

The full list is available in the article from the Minnesota Star Tribune.

Military and civilian personnel at 24 installations now have an additional tool to support and sustain installation operations. This expansion follows initial pilot implementation of an Intergovernmental Support Agreement (IGSA) between the Department of the Navy and Sourcewell. Sourcewell is a self-funded local unit of government in Minnesota.

Established in October 2024, six Navy and Marine Corps installations participated in the pilot. They used Sourcewell’s Military Support Program to deliver equipment, supplies, and services to sustain installation operations.

Task orders, funded through operations and maintenance funding, are fulfilled through Sourcewell’s cooperative purchasing program. The program leverages Sourcewell’s network of competitively awarded suppliers.

“This next phase represents a significant milestone in our partnership with the Department of the Navy,” said Chad Coauette, CEO of Sourcewell. “We’re here to support their mission by making sure installations can rely on a steady, trusted path to the resources they need.”

In total, 31 installations across the Navy and Marine Corps are now authorized to use the program.

“Phase I allowed us to validate the process and refine how task orders are developed and executed,” said Randy Fuss, Senior Director of Sourcewell’s Military Support Program. “As we move into Phase II, our focus is on scaling that execution—ensuring installations can consistently access the support they need while maintaining the standards established during the pilot.”

Phase III will include all remaining Navy and Marine Corps installations. The timing will be determined jointly by the Department of the Navy and Sourcewell.

About Sourcewell’s Military Support Program

Sourcewell is a government-to-government partner of the U.S. Army, Department of the Navy, and U.S. Army Reserve, authorized under 10 U.S.C. § 2679 to provide installation support services.

Through IGSAs, it provides a structured, scalable pathway to access the goods and services required to support operations and maintenance.

The program builds on Sourcewell’s established cooperative purchasing program. It gives military partners and more than 50,000 public agencies nationwide access to a portfolio of competitively awarded suppliers. Learn more at sourcewell-mn.gov/military.

 

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Sourcewell received nine awards across two national programs. The awards recognize a workplace culture that empowers employees to do their best work supporting public agencies and the communities they serve. 

USA TODAY Top Workplaces and Energage Culture Excellence Awards recognized Sourcewell. 

“When employees feel supported, connected, and engaged, they bring their best to the work,” said Dr. Chad Coauette, CEO of Sourcewell. “That strengthens how we partner with public agencies and helps expand what’s possible in communities within our five-county region and nationwide. We’re very fortunate to have a supportive board of directors and a team that’s invested in making a lasting impact.” 

USA TODAY Top Workplace Awards 

Sourcewell was named a USA TODAY Top Workplace for the third consecutive year. This national recognition is based on employee feedback collected through the 2025 Energage employee survey. Sourcewell was recognized at the USA TODAY Top Workplaces 2026 National Conference [April 8]. During the conference, organizations from across the country gathered to celebrate award winners and share best practices for workplace culture. 

Energage 2026 Culture Excellence Awards 

Sourcewell received recognition in all eight categories of the Energage 2026 Culture Excellence Awards: 

• Innovation
• Work-Life Flexibility
• Compensation & Benefits
• Leadership
• Purpose & Values
• Employee Appreciation
• Employee Well-Being
• Professional Development 

Together, these awards reflect Sourcewell’s strong commitment to flexibility, professional growth, employee well-being, and a culture of support and belonging. Empowering employees strengthens partnerships and supports better outcomes for public agencies and the communities they serve. 

About Sourcewell

Sourcewell empowers public employees through dynamic solutions and services that drive efficiency and impact. As a government organization serving thousands of public agencies across the United States and Canada, Sourcewell understands the day-to-day challenges public employees face. From cooperative contracts and related solutions, to education and community resources, Sourcewell is committed to providing high-quality service while supporting community success. Visit sourcewell-mn.gov to learn more. See current job openings at sourcewell-mn.gov/careers. 
 

About Energage

Making the world a better place to work together™.

Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 20 years of culture research and the results from 30 million employees surveyed across more than 80,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.

Sourcewell Ventures Civic Solutions Challenge fast-tracks new technology to the public sector. Sourcewell will judge submissions to advance those best aligned with agency needs.

Up to 10 finalists will pitch their solutions live at the Smart Cities Connect Fall Conference and Expo. During the event, a review panel will select the winner for piloting. The conference takes place Sept. 22-24 in National Harbor, Maryland.

The challenge is hosted by Sourcewell’s innovation and solutions team, Sourcewell Ventures. It's part of broader efforts to quickly pilot new solutions for public agencies.

“Agencies are under growing pressure to deliver more with limited time, staff, and budgets,” said Kary Graser, Sourcewell’s vice president of strategic initiatives. “Through Sourcewell Ventures, we bring agencies and innovators together. This collaboration creates pilots that resolve pain points and improve government services.” 

Pilots will be considered for the following focus areas: 

• Operational GovTech: Tools that improve government service delivery and internal operations/administration

• Public Safety Tech: Solutions that support emergency response, law enforcement, and community safety

• Public Health and Community Well-being Tech: Non-clinical tech that supports health, safety, and human services

Visit the Sourcewell Ventures Civic Solutions Challenge webpage for details and eligibility.

The Sourcewell Ventures Civic Solutions Challenge is being held in collaboration with TechConnect, which has more than 25 years of expertise connecting innovators with high-value commercialization opportunities.

About Sourcewell

Sourcewell empowers public employees through dynamic solutions and services that drive efficiency and impact. As a government organization serving thousands of public agencies across the United States and Canada, Sourcewell understands the day-to-day challenges public employees face. From cooperative contracts and related solutions, to education and community resources, Sourcewell is committed to providing high-quality service while supporting community success.

About TechConnect
With 25+ years of experience connecting emerging technologies with unique funding and partnership opportunities, TechConnect boasts the most robust research and innovation network in the world. It employs a broad scope of tools to deliver top technologies, including open innovation programs, conferences, and open-access publications. Each year, TechConnect prospects, vets, and connects thousands of emerging technologies with corporate, investment, municipal, and national defense clients. TechConnect is a division of Advanced Technology International. For more information, visit techconnect.org.

As part of this collaboration, Sourcewell is supporting the professional development of BFN members and fleet professionals through co-branded programming and shared resources. Educational sessions will also help members better understand and leverage fleet-related contracts.

Fleet professionals will see more opportunities for learning, networking, and real-world insights into how cooperative purchasing can support their goals.

“Sourcewell is proud to work alongside Black Fleet Network to help fleet professionals meet their goals,” said Andy Campbell, Sourcewell director of cooperative contracts. “We are committed to supporting BFN’s goal of an industry where excellence and equity go hand in hand.”

BFN founder and CEO Exavious Farley added, “Partnering with Sourcewell brings our members expanded expertise and purchasing power. Together, we’re ensuring our network has the knowledge and resources to strengthen fleets and communities.”

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to equity-driven progress in fleet leadership — and to helping fleet managers and professionals access the tools, training, and connections they need to succeed.

See the details of the partnership or register as a participating agency with Sourcewell.

The recognition comes from a 2025 all-staff survey conducted by Energage, an independent research firm that benchmarks employee engagement across the country. Based on those results, Sourcewell earned Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Awards in three categories: Employee Appreciation, Employee Wellbeing, and Professional Development.

The Culture Excellence Awards highlight organizations where employees consistently express strong levels of satisfaction in specific areas of workplace culture. Sourcewell’s results place it alongside national leaders in creating meaningful, people-centered work environments and builds on Sourcewell’s inclusion in the 2025 USA Today Top Workplaces list, as well as the Star Tribune’s Top Workplaces in Minnesota.

Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette says the recognition provides valuable feedback that helps the organization understand what’s working and where to improve. It informs decisions, strengthens culture, and supports a better employee experience.

“The voice of our employees is incredibly important; it shapes how we grow and thrive as an organization,” Coauette said. “We intentionally seek feedback throughout the year, and I’m grateful to our staff, leadership, and board for helping build a culture where those voices are heard and valued.”

“We’re intentional about building a culture that reflects the commitments we make to our employees: purpose, support, balance, and growth,” said Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette. “While there’s always room to improve, this recognition affirms that we’re delivering on key areas of the employee experience in meaningful ways and that is worth celebrating.”

In addition to strong peer and leadership support, employees consistently point to flexible work arrangements, meaningful work, and ongoing growth opportunities as key elements of their experience reflecting Sourcewell’s dedication to well-being, true balance, and growth and development.

Over the past year, Sourcewell has welcomed approximately 135 new employees and now includes staff in 28 states. This growth reflects the organization’s momentum and its commitment to fostering a flexible, inclusive culture that supports a multistate workforce while remaining deeply rooted in Minnesota.

See all 2025 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Awards earners.

All 8.4 million residents of New York City now have access to additional help to manage student loans and plan ahead for college. Made possible through the city’s use of a Sourcewell employee financial wellness and support cooperative purchasing contract with student loan assistance provider Summer, the expansion builds on the successful pilot program rolled out to city employees in May, broadening its reach to all residents.

With free access to Summer’s online portal, every NYC resident can now explore options to lower monthly student loan payments, review and compare repayment plans, and track progress toward potential loan forgiveness. The platform also offers tailored repayment and forgiveness guidance, plus college planning tools to estimate savings needs and find ways to save.

In its first three months, the municipal program supported more than 2,000 employees and achieved $13.8 million in total savings, with participants seeing an average annual reduction of $3,800 in student loan payments. Estimates suggest the expanded program could help residents reduce annual student loan payments by an average of $3,000, and by about $7,000 for those with advanced degrees. Families using the program’s college planning tools may also save up to $10,000 per child on education costs.

“Student loan debt impacts more than just monthly budgets. It affects a person’s ability to save, plan, and invest in their future,” said Ryan Donovan, Sourcewell Senior Director of Risk, Benefits, and Insurance. “We're proud to empower agencies to make their communities better through our cooperative purchasing program. Through this agency and supplier partnership, individuals and families have access to practical tools to improve their long-term financial stability.”

Explore Sourcewell’s financial wellness and support cooperative contracts for your agency, or learn more about NYC’s debt relief program in the official press release.

“It's been incredible to see the impact that SpringMath has made in the classrooms,” said Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette, “Dr. VanDerHeyden has the passion and extensive knowledge and experience to take SpringMath to the next level, and we look forward to following the SpringMath journey.” During its time at Sourcewell, SpringMath won many industry awards and earned a U.S. patent in February 2025, recognizing the unique features of SpringMath’s novel Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) system, including innovative assessments, skill mapping and screening, dynamic intervention guidance, adaptable instruction, and integrated implementation support.

SpringMath use in schools has grown tremendously over the last 5 years and generated an impressive track record improving math achievement in districts around the U.S. and Canada. In 2024-2025, students reached mastery in SpringMath over a million times. Children receiving SpringMath have half the risk of failing the year-end state test than do children not receiving SpringMath in randomized controlled trials.

“I will always be grateful for the partnership with Sourcewell, as they successfully incubated a new solution in educational technology that has benefitted K-12 students in Minnesota and many other states,” said Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden. “SpringMath is a highly effective platform for improving math success in schools. Our team is thrilled to continue to assist our customers in effectively implementing SpringMath and to lead its next phase."

About SpringMath Accelerate, Inc.

SpringMath Accelerate, Inc. was founded by SpringMath creator, Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden. SpringMath is the only complete multi-tiered system of support in math on the market. It provides K-12 educators with research-based assessments, interventions, and automated data interpretation in real-time to enhance math learning outcomes. By simplifying MTSS implementation, the platform supports schools in achieving measurable success through real-time data, targeted instruction, and ongoing support. Visit springmath.org to learn more.

For the 10th year in a row, Sourcewell has earned the annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (AEP) award as presented by the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI). This honor affirms Sourcewell’s team of procurement professionals go beyond the minimum requirements as set annually by the AEP Sponsors, and confirms Sourcewell’s commitment to providing innovative programs and solutions to the public agencies it serves. 

“It’s an honor to receive this award for the 10th consecutive year,” said Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette, “We are intentional in serving public agencies from a foundation set by our values: Seek, Empower, Impact – and this recognition reflects the professionalism, work ethic, and continuous improvement mindset of our team.”  

NPI bases scores on criteria designed to measure innovation, professionalism, productivity, e-procurement, and leadership attributes. The 216 award recipients include public agencies across the United States such as school districts, universities, cities, counties, special districts, and states. 

“This national recognition is a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to innovation, determination, and leadership in public procurement,” said Sourcewell Chief Operating and Procurement Officer Jeremy Schwartz. “The team’s dedication to exceeding standards and driving excellence is why we are among the best in the nation.”  

To learn more about the AEP award, visit the NPI website. 

STAPLES, Minn. – YMCAs provide essential programs that support healthy, thriving communities – from wellness initiatives to child care to community outreach. Managing procurement needs alongside daily operations can be overwhelming, especially with limited time and staff.

To help address these challenges, YPurchasing and Sourcewell have partnered to raise awareness of cooperative purchasing, expanding access to solutions that reduce administrative burden, save money, and make procurement easier for YMCA staff nationwide.

YPurchasing members that participate in Sourcewell’s cooperative purchasing program gain access to competitively awarded contracts for grounds maintenance, camp equipment, construction equipment, vehicles, fleet solutions, sports lighting, and more. Many YMCA organizations across the country already use these contracts to streamline the purchasing process. 

“This strategic partnership represents another step forward in our mission to deliver exceptional value to our members across YMCAs,” said Terry McElfresh, President and CEO of YPurchasing. “By combining Sourcewell’s industry-leading expertise contracts along with YPurchasing extensive member base of YMCAs, we're creating unprecedented value and efficiency for our members.”

“Through our partnership with YPurchasing, we’re helping YMCAs save time, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency,” said Lindsey Wade, Sourcewell Channel Development Executive. “Our goal is to make procurement more manageable, so leaders can stay focused on serving their members and strengthening their communities.”

About Sourcewell

Sourcewell empowers public employees through dynamic solutions and services that drive efficiency and impact. As a government organization serving thousands of public agencies across the United States and Canada, Sourcewell understands the day-to-day challenges public employees face. From cooperative contracts and related solutions, to education and community resources, Sourcewell is committed to providing high-quality service while supporting community success. Visit sourcewell-mn.gov to learn more.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced a new partnership using a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract to help its city employees reduce millions of dollars of student loan debt. The move is part of a larger initiative to make New York City more affordable for working-class families. 

The partnership provides more than 100,000 city employees and their families free access to student loan experts and tools to enroll in the federal government's Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and Income Driven Repayment (IDR) plans to reduce or cancel an estimated $360 million in student loan debt. 

By leveraging an existing Sourcewell-awarded contract, New York City was able to expedite procurement and get faster access to the resources its workforce needs. 

“We couldn’t be happier for New York City and its employees,” said Ryan Donovan, Senior Director of Risk, Benefits, and Insurance. “Financial wellness is a key component of a person’s overall well-being and their ability to be an engaged employee. We’re proud to have  played a role in helping the city streamline the process of finding a competitively awarded supplier who can bring its workforce a solution that will have a lasting impact.” 

Learn more about the partnership and its significance via the official press release from the Office of the Mayor or by watching the press conference recording.  

The Top Workplaces award honors organizations with 150 or more employees that have created exceptional, people-first cultures. This year, more than 42,000 organizations were invited to participate. The winners are recognized for their commitment to fostering a workplace environment that values employee listening and engagement. USA TODAY showcased the winners online and at the National Awards Summit in Las Vegas.

Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette says the recognition is a testament to Sourcewell’s on-going commitment to fostering a work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to make a meaningful impact.

"It’s an honor to once again be included on USA TODAY’s Top Workplaces and to receive recognition in the Culture Excellence Awards,” Coauette said. “Our work begins with our people, and it is their determination, passion, and commitment to excellence that continues to inspire a workplace culture that everyone can be proud to be a part of.”

Over the past three years, Sourcewell has intentionally expanded to a multi-state workforce, growing from four to 28 states. This growth reflects not only the organization’s momentum, but also its commitment to fostering a flexible, inclusive culture that supports employees across the country.

The winners for USA TODAY Top Workplaces are determined by authentic employee feedback captured through a confidential survey conducted by Energage, the HR research and technology company behind the Top Workplaces program since 2006. The results are calculated based on employee responses to statements about Workplace Experience Themes, which are proven indicators of high performance.

"Earning a USA TODAY Top Workplaces award is a testament to an organization’s credibility and commitment to a people-first culture," said Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage. “This award, driven by real employee feedback, is more than just a recognition — it’s proof that your employees believe in the organization and its leadership. Job seekers and customers look for this trusted badge of credibility and excellence. It signals a company that values its people, and that kind of culture resonates in today’s competitive market.”

With a newly issued U.S. patent, SpringMath cements its place as a leader in math education, offering an innovative solution to accelerate learning and close achievement gaps.

SpringMath is a comprehensive, research-based system designed to streamline the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and improve math proficiency. By combining real-time data analysis, tailored interventions, and automated tools, the platform equips educators with the insights they need to make informed instructional decisions. The result is improved outcomes for students, reduced administrative burden for teachers, and systemwide progress in math achievement.

“This patent demonstrates that we’ve created a necessary and novel solution for implementing math MTSS,” said Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden, patent holder, researcher, and SpringMath author. “We believe math intervention systems are most effective when they support educators in making informed decisions that are based on student data. My goal has always been to better support teachers and school leaders who work every day to make math mastery achievable for all students with a system that is grounded in how children learn math.”

What does the patent cover?

VanDerHeyden, A. (2025) “System and Data Structure for Guided Learning,” U.S. Patent No. 12,223,855, protects the unique features of SpringMath’s novel MTSS system, including:

• Innovative assessments: The generation of equivalent math assessments across 145 math skill areas ensures accurate and consistent measurement of essential skills at the right stage of instruction.
• Skill mapping and screening: A decision-tree framework that guides students from foundational numeracy to algebra, starting with seasonal screenings.
• Dynamic intervention guidance: Automated data analysis that directs classwide, small-group, and individual interventions while tracking progress across all levels — students, classes, grades, schools, and districts.
• Adaptable instruction: The alignment of assessment results with tailored instructional protocols that adjust in real time to teacher-entered data.
• Integrated implementation support: Dashboards and metrics that highlight successful practices and areas needing improvement, providing actionable implementation guidance for educators and administrators in real time.

Addressing the math crisis

With math learning gaps widening, schools need scalable solutions that deliver results. SpringMath supports educators by providing actionable insights and automations to make data-driven instructional decisions that advance student math proficiency.

“We have a math crisis in this country,” Dr. VanDerHeyden added. “I sincerely hope SpringMath contributes a concrete model for integrating student assessment with real-time instructional changes to benefit all K-12 students.”

SpringMath invites K-12 administrators, educators, and school psychologists to learn how this patented technology can transform math outcomes in their schools. Learn more online.

About SpringMath

SpringMath provides K-12 educators with research-based tools to enhance math learning outcomes. By simplifying MTSS implementation, the platform supports schools in achieving measurable success through real-time data, targeted instruction, and ongoing support. SpringMath is exclusively provided by Sourcewell a public organization that partners with education, government, and nonprofit agencies to provide dynamic solutions and services that empower community success.

The Intergovernmental Support Agreement (IGSA) between the 63d and Sourcewell improves purchasing efficiency for its 100+ locations across California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, ensuring troops have the resources they need faster and more effectively. Leaders from Sourcewell and the 63rd marked the milestone with a ceremonial signing at the division’s headquarters in Mountain View, California, on Feb. 5.

Officially signed in December 2024, this is Sourcewell’s fourth IGSA with the military, following similar agreements with the Army Installation Management Command and Department of the Navy. These agreements empower those responsible for procurement decisions access to Sourcewell’s cooperative contracts and procurement expertise and extensive portfolio of competitively awarded contracts, strategically sourcing essential goods and services more efficiently and cost-effectively than traditional procurement methods.

“The 63d is extremely proud to be leading the way with this partnership,” said Maj. Gen. Tracy L. Smith, commanding general of the 63d Readiness Division. “The intended end state is to allow the 63dReadiness Division to find the most effective, efficient, and potentially cost-saving services and products to address and support division-wide needs, ultimately enabling combat readiness for our over 48,000 soldiers and civilians.”

Through its IGSA, the 63d can choose to work with Sourcewell to access facility maintenance, small-scale construction, municipal supplies and services, and specialized equipment. By leveraging economies of scale, the agreement helps reduce costs, increase purchasing efficiency, and accelerate mission-readiness timelines.

“The 63d is truly leading from the front for the Army Reserve, setting the standard as the first Readiness Division to establish an IGSA,” said Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette. “Sourcewell is proud to support your mission. This partnership isn’t just about procurement—it’s about ensuring soldiers and civilians can focus on readiness, training, mobilization, and deployment while we help provide the support they need to succeed.”

Sourcewell is honored to partner with the U.S. military, strengthening readiness through IGSAs. Since July 2024, Sourcewell’s Installation Support team has completed nearly 300 task orders, ranging from construction projects to specialized equipment acquisitions. Currently, there are 22 military installations across the country actively using the IGSA with dozens more working their way through the onboarding process.

For more information on Sourcewell’s government and military partnerships, visit sourcewell-mn.gov/military.

Parks and recreation are at the heart of thriving communities, but limited budgets and growing demands make it increasingly difficult for departments to deliver and maintain services. To address these challenges, Sourcewell has joined the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Business Council as a government-sector representative, offering procurement expertise and solutions that empower parks and recreation professionals to strengthen their communities.

The NRPA Business Council brings together business sector and park and recreation professionals to solve common challenges, fuel innovation, foster activism and advocacy, and promote research to enhance the quality of life for all. Unlike traditional private-sector council members, Sourcewell serves as a government-sector representative, bringing firsthand knowledge of the day-to-day realities public entities face and offering solutions to streamline procurement and improve efficiency.

Through its cooperative purchasing program, Sourcewell awards competitive solicitations to private companies. These contracts align with NRPA’s mission to build strong, vibrant, and resilient communities. By offering access to compliant, ready-to-use contracts with trusted suppliers for playgrounds, waterplay, athletic surfacing, grounds maintenance, and more, Sourcewell enables NRPA members to save time and reduce costs.

“Sourcewell simplifies purchasing by connecting public agencies with contracts tailored to their needs,” said Katie Alba, Sourcewell senior director of partnerships and events. “Serving on the NRPA Business Council allows us to share our public-sector perspective and advocate for innovative solutions that help overcome procurement challenges and create meaningful programs and spaces for recreation.”

Sourcewell offers hundreds of competitively solicited contracts from quality, responsive suppliers. Explore our parks and recreation contracts to find essential equipment and services to support your community today.

Natural disasters and emergencies can strike without warning, leaving communities vulnerable to devastating impacts. For public agency leaders, disaster preparedness is not just an operational necessity. It’s a shared responsibility that brings together public agencies, procurement teams, and trusted partners to protect lives, safeguard infrastructure, and build resilient communities. With proactive planning and teamwork, communities can reduce risks, recover swiftly, and emerge stronger.

Understanding why preparedness matters

Disaster preparedness serves as the foundation for effective emergency management. It includes assessing risks, creating action plans to secure resources, and training personnel to handle emergencies like hurricanes, wildfires, and public health crises. When communities prioritize preparedness, they reduce response times, limit economic disruption, and save lives.

For example, advanced planning can help ensure that emergency shelters are operational before a storm hits or that water and food supplies are prepositioned in areas likely to be affected. Without this preparation, recovery efforts can be delayed, exacerbating the human and economic toll of disasters.

Preparedness also builds trust. When residents see local agencies working together to anticipate challenges and implement solutions, they feel more confident in their safety. Trust is crucial during crises, as it fosters cooperation and compliance with emergency directives.

Streamlining emergency resources through cooperative purchasing

Procurement professionals play a pivotal role in disaster management by ensuring the availability of critical resources, from emergency supplies to construction services. To support these efforts, cooperative purchasing provides a streamlined, efficient solution for disaster response. Sourcewell’s ready-to-use, competitively solicited contracts give public agencies immediate access to awarded suppliers, simplifying the procurement of construction services, emergency supplies, and repair equipment.

According to recent research by Gartner, traditional public-sector procurement processes add an average of seven months to project timelines. Job Order Contracting methods, such as Sourcewell’s construction contracts administered by Gordian, allow construction projects to begin within 10–15 days — a significant difference when repairing infrastructure or restoring essential services after a disaster. Additionally, a study by Arizona State University found that indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) construction methods reduce administrative and procurement costs by up to 24%, freeing resources for other recovery efforts.

By integrating cooperative purchasing into disaster preparedness strategies, communities can expedite recovery efforts, reduce costs, and ensure a more resilient response to future challenges.

Creating ripple effects that strengthen communities

The impacts of preparedness extend far beyond the immediate crisis. When public agencies and their partners collaborate to build resilient systems, the impact cascades across multiple sectors:

• Economic stability: Preparedness initiatives, such as fortifying critical infrastructure, minimize economic losses and speed up recovery.
• Health and well-being: Pre-established plans for medical triage, resource allocation, and communication ensure timely care and prevent public health system failures during emergencies.
• Education and awareness: Community preparedness programs educate residents on how to respond during disasters, reducing demand on emergency services.
• Social cohesion: Involving diverse stakeholders — such as schools, nonprofits, and local businesses — build stronger networks of support that endure long after the crisis has passed.

Collaborating for safer futures

Effective disaster preparedness depends on collaboration among public agencies, procurement teams, and trusted partners. By working together, these groups can share resources, expertise, and solutions to address complex challenges. Sourcewell’s network of awarded suppliers, strategic solution providers, and ready-to-use contracts equips agencies with the tools and support needed to streamline processes and build tailored strategies for their communities. For example:

• Collaborating to conduct regional hazard assessments to identify shared vulnerabilities
• Accessing cooperative contracts to quickly secure construction, supplies, and equipment
• Hosting joint training exercises to simulate disaster scenarios and test response plans
• Applying FEMA’s Community Lifelines framework to prioritize critical services during emergencies

These collaborative efforts not only improve readiness, but also promote equity by ensuring that underserved populations are also included in preparedness initiatives.

Working together to build more resilient communities

Preparedness is a collective effort that requires coordination, resources, and sustained commitment from every sector of the community. By prioritizing preparedness, public agencies can strengthen local resilience, reduce the impacts of disasters, and create a safer, more secure future for all.

In the face of growing challenges — from climate change to evolving public health threats — the call to action is clear: Invest in preparedness today to protect communities tomorrow.

Sourcewell offers hundreds of competitively solicited contracts from quality, responsive suppliers. Find essential equipment and critical services to support your emergency preparedness efforts. Explore our contracts today.

Article contributed by Disaster Recovery Services (DRS). DRS specializes in predisaster planning and post-disaster recovery, including procurement, damage assessments, FEMA and insurance financial recovery, and rebuild coordination.

The event was hosted by Brenda Johnson-Turner, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Installations and Facilities (DASN I&F), along with uniformed Navy and Marine Corps senior leaders from the Navy and Marine Corps commands implementing this new agreement.  The Department of the Navy expects this IGSA will increase Navy and Marine Corps buying power by decreasing procurement costs and delivery timelines for various installation-support services, supplies, and equipment.

“I am truly excited about our new IGSA with Sourcewell,” stated Ms. Johnson-Turner, “as a department, we must expand the use of the authorities Congress grants us as we look for innovative and creative ways to meet our installation missions in a fiscally constrained environment.  The IGSA authority is a terrific tool in our toolkits and this IGSA with Sourcewell will provide new opportunities for our Navy and Marine Corps teams to ensure our installations are ready to support the needs of our warfighters.”

At a high level, the agreement allows Navy and Marine Corps installations to leverage Sourcewell’s extensive list of competitively awarded contracts to procure goods and services faster and for less cost over traditional procurement methods.  This translates to increased opportunity to buy down risk to naval missions and forces by ensuring U.S. tax dollars approved for Department of the Navy spending go further in meeting infrastructure and base support requirements.  Installations will be able to request Sourcewell’s services in key areas to include installation supplies, equipment, services, and small-scale construction projects.

“It is an honor to work with the Navy and Marine Corps installations,” said Dr. Chad Coauette, Sourcewell Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to serving by first understanding your needs, and then supporting the success of your mission through efficient and effective procurement support. Sourcewell staff will work with installation leadership to use local business whenever possible, as we award supplier contracts at the corporate level, making it possible for installations to work with local authorized dealers and contractors.”

This is the second IGSA between Sourcewell and one of the Department of Defense’s military departments. Earlier this year, Sourcewell signed a similar agreement with the Army.

This press release was originally issued by Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (EI&E) on Oct. 28, 2024, and is shared here with permission.

For the ninth year in a row, Sourcewell has earned the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® (AEP) Award by the National Procurement Institute, Inc.

Sourcewell was the only organization in the state of Minnesota to achieve this honor in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and again in 2024.

Agencies earn the AEP Award by demonstrating a commitment to excellence and innovation. This annual program recognizes procurement organizations that hold themselves to the highest standards of professionalism, productivity, e-procurement, and leadership.

“This award validates all of the work we’ve put into continuous improvement and growth,” said Sourcewell CEO Chad Coauette. “We’re honored to be recognized for those efforts. The standards for this award are high, and they don’t just measure one single person’s performance: We have the entire team to thank for it. It truly takes a village.”

To earn the award each year, the AEP program encourages not only the development of excellence, but also the push for continued improvement.

“It’s one thing to earn this award once. It’s quite another to retain this level of excellence across nearly a decade,” said Jeremy Schwartz, Sourcewell’s chief operating and procurement officer. “Quite a lot has changed in nine years, and staying on top of that change — harnessing it, even — is essential.”

This year, 198 organizations were recognized for excellence in procurement, including:

• 49 counties
• 72 cities
• 16 higher education agencies
• 23 school districts
• 25 special districts
• 5 state or provincial agencies
• 8 additional organizations

This is the 29^th year the NPI has recognized organizations with the annual AEP Award. Click here for a complete list of awardees.

For the ninth year in a row, Sourcewell has been named a Top Workplace in Minnesota by the Star Tribune. Adding to this achievement, Sourcewell has earned national recognition from the USA Today as a Top Workplace and received four Top Workplaces Culture of Excellence Awards for Work-Life Flexibility, Compensation & Benefits, Leadership, and Purpose & Values.

Each year, employers have an opportunity to be recognized as a top workplace based on results of an anonymous employee survey. Sponsored by Energage, the survey measures engagement, organizational health, and job satisfaction.

To qualify for the Star Tribune Top Workplaces, a company must have more than 50 employees in Minnesota. Over 5,000 public, private, and nonprofit organizations were invited to participate, and 149,176 employees shared their views. The USA Today Top Workplace recognizes organizations nationwide with at least 150 employees that prioritize people-first cultures. More than 7,000 employers nationwide were invited to take the challenge, and 1,531 employers received recognition.

Sourcewell CEO Dr. Chad Coauette said this year’s recognition is a testament to Sourcewell’s continuous commitment to fostering a work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to make a meaningful impact.

"Being recognized as a Top Workplace for the ninth year in a row speaks volumes to the dedication, passion, and pursuit of excellence by our entire team,” Coauette said. “We are incredibly proud of creating a workplace culture that continues to inspire and empower our employees as we grow and make an even bigger impact."

The Star Tribune 2024 Top Workplaces list is available at the Star Tribune website (non-governmental site) and was published in a special section on Sunday, June 23. A complete list of USA Today Top Workplaces can be viewed on the USA Today website (non-governmental site).

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Sourcewell, headquartered in Staples, Minnesota, partners with education, government, and nonprofits to boost student and community success. Created in 1978 as one of Minnesota’s nine service cooperatives, Sourcewell offers training and shared services to central-Minnesota members. Throughout the United States and Canada, the organization offers a cooperative purchasing program with hundreds of awarded suppliers on contract.

See current job openings at sourcewell-mn.gov/careers.

Recognizing the need for more diverse training environments, Louisville Fire Department leaders used a Sourcewell cooperative contract with WHP Trainingtowers to design the Louisville Fire Department Burn Building Training Center. Costing $1.4 million, this one-of-a-kind training facility simulates real-life fires in narrow lot houses, apartments, and four-plexes.

Louisville Assistant Chief Bobby Cooper called it an effort in authenticity. “We were able to design it ourselves to meet specifications of the community that we serve,” said Cooper. Unlike the training tower, the new burn building incorporates three distinct building types within its structure and includes five rooms, enabling firefighters to replicate nearly any residential or commercial fire.

“What this building does is it allows us to get that hands-on training in a controlled environment and a safe way,” Cooper explained. The facility not only allows for fire suppression and attack training through live burns but also supports a range of other skills. Firefighters can practice throwing ladders, rappelling, rope techniques, and rooftop scenarios.

To bring this state-of-the-art facility to life, the Louisville Fire Department relied on Sourcewell cooperative purchasing. Sourcewell made it easy for fire department leaders to confidently select a meticulously vetted, awarded supplier. “What Sourcewell and what WHP were able to do through their cooperative purchasing process and procurement process, they were able to streamline it, answer simple questions that we had,” Cooper said.

“When you start talking to vendors, asking for pamphlets, going on websites, RFP processes, engineers, and engineers and bids and specs isn’t something I got into this business for,” Cooper said. “We’re firefighters that needed a prop that could a job at the end of the day, and they knew what we needed, and they were tremendous support.”

Sourcewell offers hundreds of competitively solicited contracts from quality, responsive suppliers. Get the equipment you want from a process you trust, explore our public safety contracts today.

The sound of a telephone ringing a number of years ago triggered a recent Sourcewell trip to Washington D.C. The Sourcewell board of directors and several Sourcewell staff recently returned from the Pentagon where we signed a ground-breaking agreement with the Army. The agreement is for Sourcewell to support the Army Installation Management Command in their procurement efforts for installations (bases, camps, posts, etc.,) across the Unites States. How did this come to be? Good question!  

Sourcewell has a long history of supporting schools and public entities within the five counties surrounding Staples. I often get questions about what we do. The short answer is we do everything we can to help our local schools and public agencies meet their goals.

That is what the Minnesota Legislature had in mind back in the 1970s when it created nine Regional Service Cooperatives, each focused on serving specific Minnesota counties. Our headquarters are in Staples, and we serve Wadena, Todd, Cass, Crow Wing, and Morrison counties. Our work in these counties ranges from supporting bus driver recruitment to providing funding for the purchase of first responder jump bags to cooperative purchasing and more. We come alongside regional schools, cities, counties, and other public agencies to help them meet their goals for success in their communities.  

What we are known for nationally is our cooperative purchasing work. When the state created the regional service cooperatives, they gave no ability to tax or borrow money. Instead, they listed specific ways that we could earn funds to provide services. One of those services is cooperative purchasing.  

The American Bar Association Model Procurement Code defines cooperative purchasing as follows, “Cooperative purchasing is procurement conducted by, or on behalf of, one or more public procurement units.” The cooperative contracts created by Sourcewell’s team of procurement experts have been recognized and used not only by cities, counties, and schools in Minnesota, but also across the country. The city of New York, Orange County (California), and the Houston School District are some examples of large public agencies that have found our contracts valuable. Over the years, we have developed a national reputation for excellence in the field of cooperative purchasing.  

That is how the Army found us. A procurement official from a military installation in New Mexico knew of us through our reputation supporting cooperative purchasing efforts for cities and counties nationwide. Military installations are just like cities. They need all the same things cities need like heavy equipment, light posts, and heating/cooling systems. He called and left a voicemail with our legal team. It sounded a little crazy! The U.S. Army was calling us to see if we could help them with their procurement work. Luckily our organization’s chief legal and government relations officer, Marcus Miller, returned the call!  

Historically, we had not put many resources into working with federal organizations due to the complexities within that level of procurement. But it just so happens that a handful of our staff have a background in military procurement. Those individuals worked closely with people from our legal and finance teams and teamed up with leadership from the New Mexico installation to find a way. They started with a few small purchasing projects – a water truck, a small fleet of zero-turn lawn mowers, and a shade structure. After testing and refining processes, we and the Army decided it was time to take the partnership and agreement to all Army installations across the U.S.  

Through the partnership, Sourcewell provides purchasing services, and the Army pays for those services. The Army will pick and choose the projects that make the most sense for their needs. For Sourcewell, those fees come back here, to Minnesota. The increased funding means we can do even more to support the schools and public agencies in the five counties we serve.

Marcus Miller responded to that original call from the Army when he was traveling through the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. After our meeting in the Pentagon with Assistant Secretary of the Army Honorable Rachel Jacobson, we returned home through that same airport. Thinking about that coincidence gave me a few goosebumps. It is an absolute honor to be able to serve the Army in this way. From our organization, right here in Staples. I believe so much good will come from this partnership for the Army and for the five-county region we serve.

“It is a great honor to be here,” said Sourcewell CEO/executive director, Dr. Chad Coauette, during last week's ceremony. “Our commitment to serving public agencies through procurement began in the late 1990s. The approach has always been a simple one: dedication to the needs of those we serve through rigorous process and attention to detail. Local governments and schools across the country have recognized and leveraged our procurement service to meet their needs efficiently and effectively. Our processes, our training, and our resourcing have all led us to this point.”

Sourcewell signed the official Intergovernmental Support Agreement (IGSA) with the Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) in September 2023. The Sourcewell-Army IGSA is the largest in the Army’s portfolio and the first to include the entire continental U.S. (CONUS).  It is renewable for up to 10 years and will be reviewed annually.

At a high level, the agreement allows Sourcewell, a local unit of government, to support the Army’s procurement efforts. Appointed installations (bases, forts, or posts) can request Sourcewell’s help in getting the goods and services needed in the categories of operations supplies, equipment, facility sustainment and repairs, and minor construction.

The event was hosted by the Assistant Secretary of the United States Army Installations, Energy, and Environment, Honorable Rachel Jacobson, and her staff. Deputy Chief of Staff for Installations Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen and Army Installation Management Command deputy commanding general Maj. Gen. Joseph Ricciardi also attended the signing ceremony as representatives of the Army commands engaged with the new partnership.

“We’re really excited about this partnership,” said Honorable Jacobson. “It’s really the first of its kind for procurement of base operations, services, and supplies and equipment. Everything you can imagine in a city environment, we have them at our installations. We have a lot of buildings and a lot of municipal needs. For you (Sourcewell) to bring your cooperative purchasing power and your long track record of cooperative purchasing power that you have used to serve so many municipalities and local governments to bring that to us to help our installations focus on mission is a tremendous, tremendous help. We really applaud you for this and we’re very excited to work with you.”

For the Army, the goal of the partnership is to decrease project lead time, ease civilian staff workload, and save the Department of Defense money.

“We’re using these Intergovernmental Support Agreements more and more,” explained Honorable Jacobson. “In the Army, we currently have 165 of these in place, ranging from environmental services, waste management, and all sorts of other procurement. This is really going to give our installations another tool in the toolbox, another option to bring efficient and high-quality management to our installations, which is what our soldiers, families, and civilians who work on our installations really deserve.”

Honorable Jacobson described another recent IGSA between the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Army, Air Force, and Navy in which TxDoT will assist with road maintenance services for all military installations in the state. That 10-year partnership is expected to save the Army $40 million dollars.

“We do this because it helps us save money and gives us the purchasing power of those who have more expertise and a lot more leverage,” said Honorable Jacobson.

All Army Installations in the continental U.S., are now authorized to use this IGSA.

“It took a few years of working with a small team of Army IMCOM staff at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) to pilot and refine the processes,” said Dr. Coauette. “We’re honored to support the military with our procurement expertise and nationwide network of awarded supplier contracts.”

With the partnership, Sourcewell earns a service administration fee for each transaction it supports. The organization will use those funds to cover staff the staff and resource expenses it takes to support the agreement, and further fund the organization’s strategic reinvestment in programs and services for education and local government in central Minnesota.

To date, three installations have started to use the IGSA and Sourcewell’s support, including WSMR, Yuma Proving Grounds (Arizona), and Fort Moore (Georgia). Sourcewell has helped WSMR get an excavator, zero-turn lawn mowers, telehandler, tractor, various trailers, safety signs, and supported a shade structure construction project.

“For me and my fellow Sourcewell board members, this ceremony is a celebration of service,” said Greg Zylka, chairman of the Sourcewell board of directors and mayor of Little Falls. “It is a celebration of what is possible when an organization like this is fully committed to a mission of service.”

SpringMath, an award winning, complete MTSS solution for math, recently received the highest possible rating for fall classification accuracy in every grade submitted to the National Center on Intensive Intervention (NCII).

SpringMath author Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden said, “The SpringMath team is proud to once again have our work validated by NCII. We have expanded the number of grades for which we have offered evidence, including middle school, and we now have the highest rated kindergarten screening tool! These ratings offer further evidence of the quality of our assessments, which are novel in this space.”

NCII is the premier site for rating intervention and assessment tools for education. Funded by the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), NCII is comprised of national content and methodological experts who review assessments and interventions. The ratings are designed to evaluate the technical adequacy of screening tools, progress monitoring tools and interventions programs to assist educators in the adoption of tools that address their needs.

SpringMath assessments build upon the decades of research around the science of curriculum-based assessment. High-quality assessments determine student needs and determine which intervention to provide to students. Assessments used in education need to be efficient, sensitive to change, and they need to measure exactly what is taught each week. Since 2018, NCII has recognized SpringMath’s strong classification accuracy.  Learn more about SpringMath’s novel assessment approach.

“Valid and reliable assessments are the backbone of any intervention tool, ensuring the most efficacious interventions possible are being delivered. We are so proud to be providing a best-in-class solution that is helping students across the country improve their performance in math,” Dr. VanDerHeyden shared.

In addition to ratings of the SpringMath assessments, the NCII site also includes reviews of two randomized-controlled trials on the academic interventions chart. These rigorous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of SpringMath’s interventions. The NCII Intervention Taxonomy Brief describes how SpringMath addresses each of the areas of the taxonomy of intervention intensity to maximize effectiveness.

SpringMath has an active research agenda and collaborates with MTSS leaders across the country to advance the understanding of the science and to benefit the students using its interventions. Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden and colleagues have published 42 peer-reviewed journal articles in addition to books, book chapters, and policy guides focusing on math intervention, measurement, and MTSS since 2000. Dr. VanDerHeyden is also one of the founders and contributors to the Science of Math movement.

About SpringMath by Sourcewell 

SpringMath by Sourcewell is an award-winning, complete, schoolwide, MTSS solution. SpringMath engages both teachers and students — increasing confidence and long-term understanding. Combining streamlined tools for assessment, reporting, and intervention, SpringMath provides a clear path to math mastery in just minutes a day.

The agreement includes a significant investment to help increase the national nonprofit's impact on current and potential members by subsidizing membership dues for fleet professionals, as well as providing guest speakers and marketing to grow FleetPros' scope of membership.

FleetPros is a nonprofit fleet management association designed to support fleet professionals through education, networking, and resources. Fleet professionals include government agency staff responsible for managing a wide range of vehicles and equipment for their organization.

Sourcewell Partner Account Administrator Kyle Kluenenberg is an associate board member for FleetPros.

“It is a privilege and a pleasure to serve on the FleetPros board and help advance their vision of excellence in fleet management," Kluenenberg says. "At Sourcewell, we share the same values of providing quality solutions and services to our members and vendors. I look forward to working with FleetPros to foster a strong and vibrant community of fleet professionals.”

With five chapters located throughout the country, FleetPros hosts regular events, seminars, and conferences to keep members informed and connected, including the annual Fleetcon event.

Fire-rescue services have benefitted from improved situational awareness, increased preparedness, and better fireground management with UAVs and drones. Agencies seeking to incorporate this coveted technology might encounter a lengthy RFP process and delays to implementation.

With departmental resources stretched thin, fire chiefs have turned to Sourcewell’s cooperative purchasing process to efficiently procure drone technology. As Your FireRescue GPO, Sourcewell prides itself on a competitive, fair, and transparent contract process. Pre-solicited cooperative contracts allow departments quick access to in-demand products, like drone technology, without starting the RFP process from scratch—providing fire chiefs with choice, while saving them time and resources. 

“We understand how valuable time is in this industry,” says Andrew McKinney, vice president of sales for Unmanned Vehicle Technologies. “Our drone technology and equipment are designed to give firefighters greater situational awareness on the fire ground when seconds count. And with Sourcewell, agencies can access our technology with fewer hurdles.”

UAV solutions provide enhanced levels of visibility, GIS mapping capabilities, and data collection to pre-plan an incident. In the field, commanders can use drones to access real-time conditions, locate personnel, and evaluate risks for a more effective response.

“In today's evolving landscape of emergency response, drone/UAS technology is not just beneficial - it's essential,” says Travis Waibel, president and CEO of Advexure. “Sourcewell's commitment to streamlining the procurement process is invaluable, ensuring public safety officials are equipped with the advanced tools they need promptly and efficiently.”

“As a Sourcewell awarded supplier, our customers have an edge," adds Ryan English, CEO of FLYMOTION. "They’re able to get innovative technology into their department—and into operation—faster.”

Using the keyword search “drone” on Sourcewell’s website, fire leaders and procurement officials can quickly locate a variety of awarded suppliers. Products, pricing, and supplier contact information are directly available, along with multiple purchasing options, to fit any agency’s needs. 

To learn more about the benefits of cooperative purchasing, download the how-to guide to cooperative purchasing for fire-rescue service leaders. Chiefs and firefighters attending FRI can also visit Sourcewell at booth 2435 or locate many of Sourcewell’s trusted suppliers at booths marked with the Sourcewell awarded contract flag. 

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 About Sourcewell

Sourcewell cooperative purchasing allows public safety leaders to buy the fire equipment they want with a process they trust. 50,000 participating agencies in North America save time and money with Sourcewell’s government process. Agencies are empowered to fulfill their public service missions when they achieve fast, simple procurement by leveraging hundreds of awarded contracts.

Sourcewell was the only organization in the state of Minnesota to achieve this honor in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and again in 2023.

Agencies earn the AEP Award by demonstrating a commitment to procurement excellence. This annual program recognizes procurement organizations that embrace innovation, professionalism, productivity, leadership, and e-procurement.

Sourcewell Manager of Procurement Tara Wolff explained that the AEP Award validates organizations that have held themselves to the highest standards in public procurement. The overall criteria throughout the application process measures qualities important to a successful procurement department.

To earn the award each year, the AEP program encourages not only the development of excellence, but also the push for continued improvement.

“To retain this level of excellence and show our peers and the industry that we’re consistently performing at this level is extremely important,” Wolff said. “It’s a valuable differentiator for our organization.”

This year, 194 organizations were recognized for excellence in procurement, including:

• 45 counties
• 67 cities
• 17 higher education agencies
• 25 school districts
• 25 special districts
• 5 state or provincial agencies
• 10 additional organizations

This is the 28^th year the NPI has recognized organizations with the annual AEP Award. Click here for a complete list of awardees.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports record low numbers of volunteer firefighters, while local fire protection service costs tripled from 1980 to 2019. A cooperative purchasing organization, Sourcewell, Your FireRescue GPO, has earned a reputation for helping fire chiefs conserve man-hours and budgets while still procuring what they need for their departments. Chiefs count on cooperative purchasing to efficiently source apparatus, gear, tools, and services.

When fire-service agencies face challenges with reduced staffing, efficient procurement keeps chiefs from getting stretched too thin. “Cooperative purchasing makes it easy to get what you want, the way you want it, without all the hoops you have to jump through with government purchasing,” says Alex Boyd, Assistant Fire Chief with Anchorage Fire Department in Alaska.

Because Sourcewell is a government organization, fire service leaders trust it to meet the needs of their procurement offices. Contracts are awarded through a fair, competitive, and transparent process. Because the contracts have already been solicited, departments can access what they need quickly without starting the RFP process from scratch.

Fire-service leaders value simplicity and speed. They also know departments need to procure apparatus and equipment without compromising on requirements. John Butler, Fire Chief for Fairfax County Fire Department in Virginia, gets right to the point about the importance of making the right purchasing decisions. “It’s got to be the right fit for the agency and the responders because our lives depend on it.”

In many cases, adopting more efficient procurement practices protects the budget as well. “A lot of time there’s savings,” explains Timothy Whitham, Fire Chief with Edwardsville Fire Department in Kansas. “I was buying a set of turnout gear for $600 cheaper than what it would cost me to buy the same spec because I was piggybacking off somebody else’s contract.”

To learn more, download the how-to guide to cooperative purchasing for fire-rescue service leaders. Chiefs and firefighters attending FDIC International can visit Sourcewell at booth 5860 and also attend the FDIC Live session on Thursday, April 27, at 11:15 a.m. EDT.

About Sourcewell

Sourcewell cooperative purchasing allows public safety leaders to buy the fire equipment they want with a process they trust. 50,000 participating agencies in North America save time and money with Sourcewell’s government process. Agencies are empowered to fulfill their public service missions when they achieve fast, simple procurement by leveraging hundreds of awarded contracts.

Several suppliers have been awarded contracts in Sourcewell’s Trailers with Related Equipment, Accessories, and Services category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to open, enclosed, and specialty trailers, including semi, utility, dump, flatbed, tilt, tanker, gooseneck, stock, roll-off, storage, refrigerated, and others; mobile office trailers; trailers for mobile command stations and incident response; and related equipment, accessories, and services.

“It was very evident that our participating agencies desire a variety of trailer options to meet their needs,” says Supplier Development Administrator Jed Klein. “We are very pleased with the results of this solicitation for trailer solutions. Public sector agencies can look to Sourcewell as their trailer resource.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

American Cargo Group | 092922-AGO                  
Offering brands including American Hauler, Haulmark, and Wells Cargo; enclosed cargo, mobile restroom, tagalong, and gooseneck trailers; UltraLav restrooms and showers; variety of lengths and widths, sizes, models, and uses; steel and aluminum frame design; and custom options available.

Etnyre | 092922-ETN                           
Aluminum, liquid asphalt, and steel transport tankers; as well as lowboy, live bottom belt, fixed gooseneck, rear loading, paver special, transport, and tandem- and multi-axle trailers.

Felling Trailers | 092922-FTS               
Commercial semi-trailers, as well as custom, utility, construction, drop-deck, deck over tilt and tag, hydraulic dump and detachable gooseneck, generator and compressor, and tender-frame and AG trailers.

Globe Trailers | 092922-GLB
Trailers for a variety of needs, including lowboy, tagalong, end dump, extendable lowboy, flat bed, sing and double drop, folding/mechanical/fixed neck, rear loading, and hydraulic removable gooseneck (RGN) trailers.

JHB Group | 092922-JHB               
Specialty trailers, including incident command, rehab, dive, mobile medical, community and probation outreach, police, arson investigation, health incident, and custom trailers; as well as specialty vehicles.  

MAC Trailer | 092922-MCT
Pneumatic tank trailers, as well as transfer, dump, flatbed, and drop-deck trailers; and straight truck bodies.

Pitts Enterprises | 092922-PTT            
Heavy haul trailers, including double bunk, plantation pine log, pup log, and forestry trailers; detachable gooseneck lowboy, fixed-neck lowboy, tagalong, container chassis, power generation, knuckleboom, and construction trailers.

Talbert | 092922-TBT
Custom trailer manufacturer offering lowboy lowbed, hydraulic and mechanical detachable, hydraulic tail, sliding axle, tagalong, double drop, drop-deck, detachable paver, tilt, and construction trailers.

Towmaster Trailers | 092922-MNR
Construction, utility, drop-deck and tilt-deck flatbed, hydraulic dump, deck-over and fifth-wheel flatbed, reel, generator, lowboy detachable gooseneck, and hydraulic tail trailers.

Trail King | 092922-TKI
Custom trailer manufacturer offering construction, hydraulic detach, sliding axle, hydraulic tail, sliding axle, tilt, tagalong, dump, lowboy, live bottom, side dump, and detachable gooseneck trailers.

West-Mark | 092922-CER
Large variety of trailer options, including bulk liquid tank, lowboy, detachable and folding gooseneck, drop deck and fixed neck, flatbed, hydraulic tail, sliding axle, tagalong, tilt deck, lo-riser, and lift-a-load trailers.

Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Axon Enterprise and PhaZZer, LLC have been awarded contracts in Sourcewell’s Conducted Energy Weapons category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to high voltage, low amperage electrical less-lethal devices for law enforcement, as well as device-related parts and accessories; systems and applications which assist in managing, maintaining, and recovering data from the device; and services for training, maintenance, and repair.

“Our law enforcement agency users have been requesting options for conducted energy weapons,” says Senior Category Development Administrator Jill Beaupre, “and we are pleased to have quality solutions now represented through these contracts.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Axon Enterprise | 092722-AXN 
Axon offers technology, innovative tools, and intuitive software to help transform the way officers and agencies process information, serve their community, and save lives. Available less-lethal technology includes the TASER 10, TASER 7, TASER X26P, TASER X2 hardware and accessories, TASER Cam HD, and Axon evidence and evidence sync. Integration with Axon VR is available to help enhance TASER proficiency, use-of-force decision-making, confidence, and accuracy under stress.

PhaZZer, LLC | 092722-PZR
Designed specifically for law enforcement, the PhaZZer Enforcer and Force Disarming CEWs feature patented shutdown safety circuit and a range of accessories including ambidextrous level II holsters; single and double cartridge pouches; 15' 21' and 25' dart cartridges; 21' training cartridges; and optional time and date data port and wireless data port receivers allow for simultaneous download of all usage within range. Law enforcement agencies can also access extended warranty options and both online and in-person training courses for senior instructors, instructors, and operators. 

Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Determined to reverse trends, educators at Avon Grove took a new approach to instruction during the 2018–2019 school year —implementing a strong MTSS process and coaching for all fourth- and fifth-grade teachers. The change resulted in an immediate improvement in math scores. In fact, the percentage of fifth graders scoring as “proficient” or “advanced” jumped from 29% to 54% in just one year. To build on this initial success, Avon Grove extended its math coaching process to teachers in kindergarten through third grade. The school also created a curricular framework to align all K–8 math resources and assessments with state standards.

Despite this, educators still noticed gaps in students’ foundational math skills, so leaders implemented SpringMath, a K–8 math intervention solution created by Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden, strengthening not just individual student interventions, but classwide Tier I instruction as well. Paired together with an MTSS process and coaching, SpringMath provided a proven instructional resource for improving teacher-led instruction.

Providing a proven methodology

SpringMath is grounded in research showing that:

(1.) conceptual and procedural knowledge are both critical to math achievement and should be taught together rather than in isolation, and

(2.) students achieve better results when teachers correctly align the intervention they deliver with the precise instruction that students need.

SpringMath includes streamlined tools for math assessment, reporting, and intervention, helping students master foundational math skills in just 15 minutes of use per day.

Avon Grove’s Curriculum Coordinator Kim Treml and Director of Teaching and Learning Jen Weaver noted that they chose SpringMath because of its efficacy as a tool for improving students’ fluency in foundational math skills, not only through highly targeted individual or small-group interventions, but also through classwide instruction and intervention.

SpringMath uses a paired learning approach to build enduring math confidence and mastery in all students, and this feature also appealed to Avon Grove leaders. After teachers explain and model a math concept or procedure, students work on the skill in pairs, with students talking through their understanding and helping each other achieve deeper learning.

Ensuring staff buy-in at a challenging time

Avon Grove purchased SpringMath with the help of federal COVID-19 pandemic relief funding, and implementation began in January 2021. However, at first, leaders encountered some resistance among teachers.

“We had difficulty with staff buy-in due to the learning environment occurring at the time,” Weaver said.

Normally, there are some challenges involved in rolling out a new solution and encouraging teachers to use it under the best of circumstances. Teachers already had a lot on their plates in managing a hybrid model of instruction, with some students attending school in person and others still learning from home. Some teachers felt that learning a new approach to math instruction simultaneously was too much to ask.

What turned the tide was seeing the early success their colleagues had with SpringMath in their classrooms.

“Our computational benchmark scores increased from winter to spring that year among students whose teachers embraced the SpringMath approach,” Weaver said. “These results convinced faculty members that the school was on the right path toward success.”

An implementation with school-wide support

By the fall of 2021, full implementation was underway, and SpringMath staff trained all teachers how to use the solution. Teachers designated 15 minutes of their daily math period to classwide Tier 1 instruction guided by SpringMath data. Another 15 minutes per day was focused on small-group math intervention.

Avon Grove administrators relied on several strategies to ensure teachers continued to use SpringMath effectively.

“Principals were fully on board and committed to successful implementation and long-term usage,” Treml said.

For instance, principals conducted multiple walkthroughs of each classroom throughout the school year, guided by a “Fidelity Checklist” of what successful implementation of SpringMath should look like.

The school’s leadership team also created professional learning communities based around SpringMath and included tips and tricks in staff newsletters. They established a peer coaching program in which teachers who were using the program effectively were paired with those who could use more help. They sent emails recognizing and praising teachers when goals were met.

Growth at each grade level

Although implementing SpringMath during the pandemic was difficult, having a comprehensive and well-developed implementation plan helped drive success. In fact, Avon Grove saw overall growth in students’ math achievement at each grade level.

From the 2020–2021 school year to the 2021–2022 school year, Tier 1 growth in math was:

·        17% for first graders

·        21% for second graders

·        18% for third graders

·        33% for fourth graders

·        26% for fifth graders

·        35% for sixth graders.

Teachers now see the benefits of using SpringMath, and they’re more confident in their use of the program. Kindergarten teachers report that it’s their students’ favorite part of the school day.

What’s more, students feel more confident in their math abilities.

“The kids are extremely motivated and engaged,” Treml said. “Kids are fully aware of expectations. They set their own individual goals, and they hold their teachers accountable.”

“SpringMath continues to be a focus area in all K–6 math classrooms,” Weaver concluded. “We’re hopeful that state assessment scores increase over time now that our core instruction includes both the computational fluency and the conceptual understanding components that are necessary for success in math.”

These contracts offer access to stationary electrical generation systems, backup or standby generator sets, mobile and ground power units, and trailer-mounted generators; also offers fuel tanks, automatic transfer switches, controls, alarm modules, batteries, block heaters, networking tools, and other parts and accessories; as well as services for engineering, installation, delivery, maintenance, training, custom shop work, rental services, and more.  

“The contracts awarded in this category provide a large offering of power generation products for our agencies across the United States and Canada,” says Sourcewell Senior Category Development Administrator Steff Haataja. “These manufacturers are committed to providing power solutions where agencies need it, when they need it.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Caterpillar Inc. | 092222-CAT 
CAT diesel and natural gas generator sets, automatic transfer switches, switchgears, controls, installation, extended service coverage, CAT rental equipment, used equipment, parts, and maintenance contracts.

Cummins | 092222-CMM 
Diesel and natural gas generators, automatic transfer switches, switchgears, and turnkey solutions.

Generac | 092222-GNR 
Diesel, gas, bi-fuel, industrial, mobile, home standby, portable, and commercial generators; light towers, transfer switches, and mobile battery energy storage.

Kohler | 092222-KOH 
Diesel, gas, mobile, home, small business, and portable generators; automatic transfer switches, paralleling switchgears, and pumps.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

These contracts offer access to equipment and services for facility maintenance, repair, and operations, including industrial supplies and building materials; electric, mechanical, fluid, and pneumatic power transmission equipment; electrical service and lighting; plumbing and waterworks; and related services.

“This category offers participating agencies a complete catalog solution for all maintenance, repair, and operating needs,” says Sourcewell Senior Category Development Administrator Steff Haataja. “The contracts awarded bring a vast network of locations with inventory needed to provide agencies across the United States and Canada with products they need.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Fastenal Company | 091422-FAS 
Quality maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) supplies and services. Offerings span 19 product categories available at more than 3,000 in-market locations and online.

Grainger | 091422-WWG 
Facility MRO solutions, personal protective equipment and safety supplies, hard-to-find products, sourcing capabilities, value add and fee-based services, custom kitting capabilities, inventory management services, electronic data interchange (EDI)/eProcurement capabilities, 24/7 online ordering, same-day ship in-stock items, small business program, and no minimum order quantities.

Motion Industries | 091422-MII 
Industrial distributor of over 12 million items, including bearings; mechanical power transmission; electrical and industrial automation; hose, belting, and gaskets; hydraulics and pneumatics; process pumps; industrial and safety; seals and accessories; and material handling products and solutions.

MSC Industrial Supply | 091422-MSI 
With over 80 years of experience, MSC is a supplier of MRO products. With more than 2.1 million product offerings, MSC offers expertise and dedication to helping customers drive greater productivity, profitability, and growth.

WESCO | 091422-WES 
Wesco provides business-to-business distribution, logistics services, and supply chain solutions. Wesco offers a product and services portfolio to build, connect, power, and protect the world. 

White Cap, LP | 091422-WCP 
Construction and industrial supplies and equipment, safety supplies and training, PPE and fall protection, concrete products and accessories; building materials, waterproofing, disaster recovery, grading, and erosion products; adhesives, caulk, and sealants.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Suppliers in the Communications Technology Consulting Services category assist Sourcewell participating entities in achieving cost savings, increased operational efficiencies, systems assessment, and strategic planning, exclusively related to communications technology.

“The agencies we serve are now, more than ever, asking for more service-related solutions,” Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Michelle Spychalla explains. “This newly awarded category and these suppliers offer world-class expertise in the design, implementation, and ongoing improvements to an agency’s communication strategy.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Introba Inc. | 072822-RBZ 
Technology planning, budgeting, design, and integration; IT/low voltage infrastructure, cloud and premises network and communications; unified communications, call centers, wireless systems, audio-visual, security design and security threat assessments; and data centers.

OpDecision | 072822-TN4
Cellphone, tablet, and mobile wireless fidelity (Mi-Fi)/Internet of Things (loT) expense reduction; mobility portal and user support; and wireless and telecom inventory management.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Eight suppliers have been awarded contracts in the category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to law enforcement duty gear; traffic safety enforcement equipment, devices, and instruments; crime scene management and evidence collection equipment; tactical and explosive ordinance disposal equipment; and related services, including training, installation, maintenance, and technical support.

“As Sourcewell continues to expand its law enforcement contract portfolio, these contracts offer a comprehensive selection of equipment law enforcement agencies use every day,” says Sourcewell public safety consultant Crosby Grindle.

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

All Traffic Solutions | 090122-ATS
Portable radar speed signs, variable message signs, and trailers that help reduce speeding, share alerts, collect traffic data, and resolve speeding complaints. Products are highly durable, made in the USA, and can be managed remotely to save time.

ADS, Inc. | 090122-ADS
Law enforcement equipment, including general issued gear, clothing, personal protective equipment, medical, night vision, weapon optics, helmets, explosive ordnance device (EOD) equipment, maritime equipment, robots, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS), SWAT equipment, and license plate recognition (LPR) systems.

CURTIS Blue Line | 090122-LNC
Police duty gear and boots; law enforcement uniforms; body armor; less-lethal and police training equipment; tactical bags; riot, hearing, and eye protection; holsters; tactical flashlights; and gloves.

Getac | 090122-GET
Custom rugged laptops and tablets, camera solutions, software, accessories, and professional services.

Grainger | 090122-WWG 
Public safety offerings, including corrections and police line cards; fire and EMS gear and equipment; emergency products and solutions; top 200 item hot list pricing; prepaid and standard shipping; after-hours emergency service; member incentive programs; inventory management; custom kitting capabilities; fee-based services; and local branch support.

Municipal Emergency Services (MES) | 090122-MES
Law enforcement gear and accessories, disturbance crowd control, defense products, safety vests, restraint cuffs, leg irons and accessories, crime scene management and line tape, tactical equipment, traffic safety, and product demonstrations.

Panasonic Corp. | 090122-PNA
Fully- and semi-rugged Toughbooks, as well as Toughbook tablets and handhelds, accessories, and service.

Whelen Engineering | 090122-WHL
Emergency warning systems for the police, fire, EMS, department of transportation, tow, and utility markets; roof-mounted lightbars, interior lightbars, sirens, control systems, speakers, body lights, white illumination lights, spotlights, and motorcycle systems.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Grainger and Safeware have been awarded contracts in Sourcewell’s Public Safety and Emergency Management Equipment, Tool, and Supply Catalog Solutions category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

Jill Beaupre, Sourcewell Senior Category Development Administrator, says this category allows Sourcewell participating agencies to access a comprehensive “catalog” of solutions to support the welfare and protection of the general public.

“These unique contracts provide for an entire catalog solution of public safety and emergency management products facilitating greater ease of contract management for procurement departments,” Beaupre said, adding agencies that would most benefit include:

• Law enforcement and corrections
• Fire, emergency medical services, and search and rescue
• Medical, health services, and public health
• Human services, housing, homelessness, and mental health
• Emergency management
• Public utilities and public works
• Transit and transportation

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Grainger | 080922-WWG 
Public safety offerings, including corrections and police line cards; fire and EMS gear and equipment; emergency products and solutions; top 200 item hot list pricing; prepaid and standard shipping; after-hours emergency service; member incentive programs; inventory management; custom kitting capabilities; fee-based services; and local branch support.

Safeware | 080922-SAF 
Equipment for public safety, fire and rescue, security solutions, hazardous materials response, explosive ordnance device (EOD) and bomb technicians; law enforcement and roadside construction gear; education safety supplies; facility management and industrial safety solutions; and first responder training.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

These contracts offer access to asphalt pavers, screeds, distributors, and loaders; steel-wheeled and pneumatic tire rollers; wideners, tack distributors, cold planers, and compactors; and concrete mixers and gunite or shotcrete delivery equipment.

“Sourcewell’s roadway paving equipment contracts support cities, counties, states, and provincial government across North America with many types of equipment designed for use in the paving of road and highway surfaces,” says Supplier Development Supervisor Kelly McAllister. “The awarded suppliers offer an extensive line of products to meet the needs of many roadway departments.” 

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Astec | 060122-ATE 
Asphalt, commercial, and highway pavers; cold planers; milling machines; asphalt material transfer vehicles; Shuttle Buggy MTVs; and asphalt screeds.

BOMAG | 060122-BAI 
Road building and maintenance; asphalt pavers; tandem and single-drum rollers; reclaimer stabilizers; asphalt milling machines; high-speed embankment, trench, and sanitary landfill compactors; compaction plates; and tampers.

Caterpillar Inc. | 060122-CAT
Pneumatic and tandem vibratory rollers, asphalt pavers, vibratory soil compactors, cold planers, road reclaimers, used equipment, and parts and service.

Cemen Tech | 060122-CMT
Mobile and stationary cement mixers, cement silos, and training services.

Dynapac | 060122-DYN
Supplier of high-tech soil and asphalt rollers, compact equipment, pavers and feeders, committed to strengthen customer performance by being “your partner on the road ahead.”

LeeBoy, Inc. | 060122-VTL
Asphalt pavers ad spray patchers, tack tanks, graders, brooms, rollers, max distributors, road wideners, force feed loaders, and chip spreaders.

Weiler | 060122-WLR
Offering a full line of asphalt paving equipment for highway class to commercial applications. Products are sold and serviced exclusively at Caterpillar dealers throughout North America.

Wirtgen | 060122-WAI
Cold milling machines, cold and hot recyclers, soil stabilizers, slipform and road pavers, single-drum and static rollers, comprehensive service network, and application consulting.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

These cooperative purchasing contracts offer access to equipment for moving, removing, and controlling snow and ice, including plows, blades, wings, blowers, brooms, spreaders or sprayer systems for de-icing and anti-icing, dump bodies, and related parts, supplies, and accessories.

“It’s that time of year again when members are looking to use or purchase snow and ice handling equipment,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Jill Beaupre. “The breadth and depth of solutions offered by the suppliers in this category will go far in meeting the needs of participating agencies across the United States and Canada.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

ASH North America | 062222-AEB
Snowplows, blades, and wings; salt spreaders; virtual box, mounted, and tailgate spreaders; dump bodies; liquid deicers and sprayers; snow and ice equipment truck upfit; underbody scrapers; snow and ice equipment accessories and parts; snow and ice removal equipment for utility task vehicles; and pre-wet anti-ice systems. This contract also provides access to the following brands:

MB Companies | 062222-AEB-5
Snowplows, blades, and wings; salt spreaders; virtual box, mounted, and tailgate spreaders; dump bodies; liquid deicers and sprayers; snow and ice equipment truck upfit; underbody scrapers; snow and ice equipment parts and accessories; UTV snow and ice removal equipment; and pre-wet anti-ice systems.

Meyer | 062222-AEB-3
Snowplows, blades, and wings; salt spreaders; virtual box, mounted, and tailgate spreaders; dump bodies; liquid deicers and sprayers; snow and ice equipment truck upfit; underbody scrapers; snow and ice equipment parts and accessories; UTV snow and ice removal equipment; and pre-wet anti-ice systems.

Monroe | 062222-AEB-1
Snowplows, blades, and wings; salt spreaders; virtual box, mounted, and tailgate spreaders; dump bodies; liquid deicers and sprayers; snow and ice equipment truck upfit; underbody scrapers; snow and ice equipment parts and accessories; UTV snow and ice removal equipment; and pre-wet anti-ice systems.

Swenson Spreader |  062222-AEB-4
Snowplows, blades, and wings; salt spreaders; virtual box, mounted, and tailgate spreaders; dump bodies; liquid deicers and sprayers; snow and ice equipment truck upfit; underbody scrapers; snow and ice equipment parts and accessories; UTV snow and ice removal equipment; and pre-wet anti-ice systems.

Towmaster | 062222-AEB-2
Snowplows, blades, and wings; salt spreaders; virtual box, mounted, and tailgate spreaders; dump bodies; liquid deicers and sprayers; snow and ice equipment truck upfit; underbody scrapers; snow and ice equipment parts and accessories; UTV snow and ice removal equipment; and pre-wet anti-ice systems.

Alamo Group (USA) | 062222-AGI 
This contract provides access to the following brands:

Everest – Alamo Group (USA) | 062222-AGI-1
Snow and ice control products, snowplows, standard dump bodies, and combination dump and spread bodies.

Henke – Alamo Group (USA) | 062222-AGI-2 
Snowplows and snow pushers; truck, wing, loader, airport, runway, reversible, and folding plows; and spreaders and graders.

RPM Tech – Alamo Group (USA) | 062222-AGI-3
Snowblowers and attachments; sidewalk plows, snow clearing equipment, and tracked vehicles; cold air blowers; and rail switch snow removal equipment.

Tenco – Alamo Group (USA) | 062222-AGI-5
One-way, reversible, and side-wing snowplows; salt and sand spreaders; combination dump body; dump body and spreader; slid-in spreaders; snow and ice removal equipment; and underbody scrapers.

Wausau – Alamo Group (USA) | 062222-AGI-4
Epoke products, loader- or chassis-mounted snowblowers, deicing equipment, salt and liquid spreaders, cold air blowers, TurboBlast, Homesafe plows, pre-treatment, and pre-wet equipment. 
 

Bonnell Industries | 062222-BNL 
Snowplows, turnkey truck packages, commander multipurpose bodies, wings, scrapers, tailgate spreaders, under tailgate spreaders, virtual box spreaders, pre-wet systems, hitches, blades, and snow and ice parts and accessories.

Douglas Dynamics | 062222-DDY
This contract provides access to the following brands:

Fisher Engineering | 062222-DDY-1
Truck, utility terrain vehicle, tractor, and skid steer snowplows; truck, UTV, tailgate, and drop spreaders; liquid equipment; sidewalk management products; and accessories.

SnowEx | 062222-DDY-3
Truck, utility terrain vehicle, tractor, and skid steer snowplows; truck, UTV, tailgate, and drop spreaders; liquid equipment; sidewalk management products; and accessories.

Western Products | 062222-DDY-2
Truck, utility terrain vehicle, tractor, and skid steer snowplows; truck, UTV, tailgate, and drop spreaders; liquid equipment; sidewalk management products; and accessories.

Fair Mfg. | 062222-FAM 
Municipal and governmental snow removal systems, including loader-mounted and self-contained snowblowers; power take-off driven and tractor-mounted snowblowers; and snow dump truck body inserts.

J.A. Larue | 062222-JAL
Loader-mounted single-stage and two-stage snowblowers, self-propelled single-engine and dual-engine snowblowers, and airport brooms and plows.

Kueper | 062222-KUE
Snowplow cutting edges and blades; underbody, airport, flexible carbide, rubber ceramic, armored carbide, low noise, debris lane, grader, and scarifier blades; blade accessories, curb guards, end guards,  wrap around guards, and plates.

Little Falls Machine | 062222-LFM 
Snowplows, truck, wing, loader, reversible, two-way, belly, V-Plows, and Vee plows; postless snow wings; grader wings; salt and sand spreaders; and underbody scrapers.  

Viking-Cives | 062222-VCM 
Wing, front, and two plows; turnkey trucks; cutting edges; spreaders; anti-icers; pro-line and dump bodies; construction dump bodies; underbody scrapers; and repair parts.

Vohl | 062222-VHL
Loader-mounted and self-contained snowblowers.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

These contracts offer access to kitchen and food service equipment, appliances, small wares, dispensers, supplies, and furnishings; and related services for installation, inspection, repair, training, and support.

“Whether you’re replacing an aging piece of equipment or designing an entirely new commercial kitchen, our contracts provide ease, accessibility, and some of the newest technology available,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Jim Benson.

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Bargreen Ellingson | 063022-BRG 
Providing Canadian agencies access to equipment for refrigeration, cooking, and warewashing; food storage and transport; China, glassware, and flatware; janitorial, cleaning, disposable and take-out, buffet and catering, and bar and beverage supplies; custom stainless and millwork; and kitchen design and equipment installation service. 
 

Cook’s Direct | 063022-COK
Cooking equipment, food preparation equipment, refrigerators and freezers, food storage supplies, countertop cooking equipment, worktables, and warewashing equipment.
 

Pasco Brokerage | 063022-PAS
Beverage, cooking, concession, food preparation, food service, refrigeration, small kitchen, and warewashing equipment; cafeteria supplies; food service safety; shelving and food storage; janitorial products; and dish machines. 
 

Stafford-Smith | 063022-STF
Provider and installation of food service equipment; ventilation and walk-in coolers; complete layout and design; buffet and serving, refrigeration, and hot equipment; consulting and project management; food service furniture; commercial laundry equipment; and small equipment and smallwares. 
 

Strategic Equipment | 063022-SES
Food service equipment, smallwares, janitorials, disposables, and design; equipment installation; product replenishment; and supply and design solutions.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

These contracts offer access to wellness engagement programs and platforms, biometric screening services and coordination, wellness incentive management, health coaching, and related services for analytics, planning, and on-site wellness center management.

“Wellness is the state of being in good health – physically, mentally, spiritually, financially, and socially,” says Sourcewell Manager of Insurance Solutions Ryan Donovan. “Many public employers are seeking ways to help their employees achieve states of wellness. In response, Sourcewell competitively solicited and awarded contracts that not only help provide a wellness program for our clients, but also seek to engage usage by employees.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Advanta | 051922-ADV
Digital well-being platform; health and well-being content; integration, reporting, and surveys; ACH payment processing; gym reimbursement services; customizable solutions; virtual fitness; onboarding and engagement; client support services; software development kit; as well as analytics and reporting.

HealthSource Solutions | 051922-HSS
Wellness program consulting and implementation; customized wellness portal for web and mobile; on-site wellness program manager; fitness center management and staffing; mental well-being organizational strategy; biometric screening; cooperative wellness solution; wellness newsletter, communications, and challenges; hands-on program administration and support; strategic program design and goals with metrics; incentive program design and fulfillment; as well as health coaching.

Lifemark | 051922-LFM
Flu immunization clinics, biometric and on-site health screening, health education, and on-site immunizations.

Propel, Inc. | 051922-PRL
Employee well-being platform with customized wellness portal, unlimited custom challenge, incentive automation, branded marketing, employee recognition tools, champion programs, total well-being content, on-demand reporting, third-party integration, strategic account support, and assessments.

Telligen | 051922-TGN
Health and well-being content; employee wellness programs; digital wellness platform; biometric screening and health coaching; health risk assessments; health utilization, care, and disease management; social and wellness challenges; wellness incentive programs; and health call center.

Virgin Pulse | 051922-VRG
Web and mobile digital well-being platform; full-service biometric screening and flu shots; health and well-being content; health coaching by phone or online; social and wellness challenges; incentive program design and fulfillment; digital health assessment; on-site services, including coaching and programming; automated enrollment and communications; integration, reporting, and survey tools; global capabilities, including over 18 languages; and client support services.

WellSpark Health | 051922-WSH
Diabetes prevention and chronic disease management, on-site programming and health coaching, wellness challenges, health risk assessments, incentive program management, digital platform and on-demand content, customized client support, and robust reporting data.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Three suppliers have been awarded contracts in the Food Products and Distribution (other than School Food Authorities) with Related Supplies, Technology, and Services category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer broadline access to grocery, produce, beverage and more including small wares, paper products, disposables, and related technologies. 

“From higher education to corrections, agencies have the opportunity to utilize these food service suppliers to fulfill their everyday needs,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Jim Benson. “These contracts are ready-to-use and competitively solicited, so Sourcewell clients can save both money and time while serving others.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Ben E. Keith | 040522-BEK
Food service supplier specializing in food and related products, including produce, bread, dairy, frozen goods, grocery, disposables and equipment, and proteins; nutrition solution team; national and exclusive brands; and nine locations serving 15 states.

Sysco Corp. | 040522-SYC 
Groceries, supplies, equipment, disposables, farm fresh produce, local produce, and specialty products.

US Foods | 040522-USF
A primary supplier food service distribution program designed for government, colleges, and universities providing food and related disposables, with a full-line product selection including disposables and cleaning products, easy online ordering, service and support, and a pricing program that is transparent and auditable.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

These contracts, awarded in the Athletic Surfaces category, offer access to hardwood, synthetic, rubber, sports vinyl, clay, and other athletic surfacing; related equipment, options, accessories, technology, and supplies; and services for installation, removal, disposal, refurbishment, inspection, repair, maintenance, training, and support.

“We are proud to offer access to these Sourcewell athletic surfacing contracts and suppliers,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Joram Manka. “Participating agencies will find these solutions to be turn-key, providing a combination of equipment, products and services, delivery, and installation you can count on.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

AstroTurf | 031022-AST
Turf fields, running tracks, tennis courts, and indoor and outdoor sports surfaces.

FieldTurf | 031022-FTU
FieldTurf synthetic turf; artificial turf surfacing; Beynon running track and polyurethane surfaces; Tarkett indoor athletic floors; tennis, outdoor, and pickleball courts; athletic facilities; civil site work; sports construction; and gym sports and fitness flooring.

Gerflor | 031022-GER
Athletic, indoor sports, and resilient vinyl sports surfaces; volleyball, pickleball, and basketball courts; and multipurpose sports floors. This contract also provides access to the following brands:

• Connor Sports | 031022-GER-2 
  Weight room, athletic, and sports surfaces; hard and portable sports floors; and dance studio flooring.
• Portafloor | 031022-GER-1 
  Temporary, event, modular, heavy-duty, and expeditionary flooring; and temporary walkways. 
• Sport Court | 031022-GER-3
  Pickleball and basketball courts; athletic, indoor and outdoor sports, and modular sports surfaces; as well as portable sports flooring.

Recreational Group | 031022-REC
This contract provides access to the following brands:

• RG Events Surfaces | 031022-REC-3
  Portable, subflooring, athletic, dance, pickleball, tennis, basketball, and skating floor rentals; event and dance flooring; rent-to-own options; do-it-yourself or professional installation; made in the USA.
• Swisstrax | 031022-REC-1
  Dance, locker room, fitness, utility equipment, deck, pool-surround, and event flooring; do-it-yourself or professional installation; logo painting; low maintenance; safe and durable; made in the USA.
• Ultrabase | 031022-REC-2
  Alternative base solutions, foundation base for turf and sport tile, permeable foundation, replaces concrete and asphalt, stone alternative, modular base panels, recycled and recyclable panels, temporary or permanent, do-it-yourself or professional installation, limited 10-year warranty, made in the USA.
• VersaCourt | 031022-REC-4
  Modular, outdoor, and indoor court surfacing; in-house game line and logo painting; project management and design; anti-theft solutions; multi-game court combinations; limited lifetime warranty; court accessory options; safe and durable; made in the USA.

Robbins Inc. | 031022-RBI
Gymnasium, multipurpose, weight room, stage, and performing arts flooring; indoor running tracks; portable basketball courts; and flooring repair and maintenance.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Four suppliers have been awarded contracts in the Medical Supply Solutions category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to equipment, supplies, technology, training, and other solutions related to administering first aid, medical, or surgical care; physical and occupational therapy; athletic training; school nursing and screening; public health nursing, testing, vaccination, and infection control; and emergency responder and public safety services.

“The solutions offered in this category are vital to our participating agencies,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Michelle Spychalla. “During these times of increased and heightened awareness for health and safety, Sourcewell is proud to offer a variety of quality products through these contracts.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Claflin Service Company dba/ CME Corp | 022422-CLF
Healthcare facility products; medical, ambulatory, sterilization, and respiratory equipment; refrigeration; instruments; medical procedure tables; scales; warming cabinets; carts, storage, and shelving solutions; and infection control.

McKesson Medical-Surgical Government Solutions LLC | 022422-MML
Pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, diagnostic instruments and supplies, distribution services, ambulatory and personal protective equipment, clinical resources, healthcare solutions, and instruments.

Medline | 022422-MDL
Manufacturer and distributor of medical supplies and solutions, as well as environmental services and housekeeping supplies, and furniture and equipment with more than 50 distribution centers.

School Health | 022422-SHC
Equipment for vision and hearing screening; braces and protection; sports, gym, fitness, physical education supplies; special education tools and aids; infection prevention; emergency preparedness; health and athletic room furnishings; first aid and pharmacy; rehabilitation and therapy; and hydration and nutrition.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

In fact, 10 suppliers have been awarded contracts to make your next investment seamless.

AstroTurf, A-Turf, FieldTurf, ForeverLawn, Hellas Construction, H2I Group, Mondo USA Inc., Shaw Sports Turf, Sprinturf, and Turf Nation have all been awarded contracts in this category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to indoor and outdoor artificial turf and running track surfaces; related equipment, options, accessories, technology, materials, and supplies; and services for installation, removal, disposal, refurbishment, inspection, repair, and maintenance of surfaces.

“Turf isn't just for the ballfield anymore,” says Sourcewell Senior Category Development Administrator Jill Beaupre. “The artificial turf and track industries continue to evolve and improve on performance and functionality. These quality surfacing solutions are an important aspect for public agencies in a wide variety of recreation and athletics, including landscape surfacing, dog parks, and much more.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

AstroTurf | 031622-AST 
Turf fields, running tracks, tennis courts, and indoor and outdoor sports surfaces.

A-Turf | 031622-ATF
Provider of athletic fields across the nation: From baseball to professional football, college single-sport stadiums to high school multi-sport fields, public or private indoor practice facilities to outdoor tournament complexes.

FieldTurf | 031622-FTU
FieldTurf synthetic turf, artificial turf surfacing, Beynon running track surfaces, Tarkett indoor athletic floors, tennis and outdoor courts, civil site work, athletic facilities, sports construction, polyurethane surfaces, gym sports and fitness flooring, and pickleball courts.

ForeverLawn | 031622-FVL
Indoor and outdoor synthetic turf, artificial grass, athletic and playground surfacing, turf fields, synthetic flooring, product and supply installation, field systems, and maintenance.

Hellas Construction | 031622-HLC
Running tracks, post tension tennis courts, synthetic turf fields and replacement, running track and tennis court resurfacing, and design and build services.

H2I Group | 031622-H2I
Indoor turf applications, synthetic turf systems, athletic fields, foul poles and goal posts, bleachers and dugouts, pre-engineered shade structures, track surfaces and equipment, baseball backstop and netting, batting cages, tennis court surfacing, soccer goals, and associated installation and services.

Mondo USA, Inc. | 031622-MUI
Design, build, and installation; athletic sport surfaces; indoor and outdoor running, hydraulic, portable, and banked tracks; multipurpose gymnasiums; tennis courts; and resurfacing and line marking.

Shaw Sports Turf | 031622-SII
Product and construction consultation, ground removal and preparation, specification and design support, logo and field markings, infill placement, field inspection, maintenance and care, synthetic sports turf field design, reclamation/recycle/reuse programs, alternative infills, and performance shock pads.

Sprinturf | 031622-SNT
Artificial and synthetic turf systems, multi-sport playing surfaces, university sport facilities, professional and recreational sports fields, artificial and field turf manufacturing, and turf installation.

Turf Nation | 031622-TNA 
Supply and installation of artificial and landscape turf; stadium surfaces and conversions; removable arena surfaces; sports field construction; maintenance services and equipment; infill supply and replacement; storage solutions, including racks, carts, and trailers; wall and sport padding; and Matrax flooring turf protection.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Seven suppliers have been awarded contracts in this category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to digital solutions and services to support employee physical health and well-being, including digital health coaching, engagement and utilization applications, and condition-specific tools for diabetes prevention and management, weight loss, infertility, and more.

“Physical health is a key pillar of wellness,” says Sourcewell Manager of Insurance Solutions Ryan Donovan. “It not only impacts our daily lives, but it also has tremendous impact on our professional lives and employers. Digital physical health tools are now available on contract to help support employer risk management strategies for group health, workers' compensation, and to round out employee benefits plans. These suppliers provide the tools to lose weight, manage pre-diabetes, and provide convenient access to physical therapy.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Habit Design | 012722-HBD  
Healthy habits, behavior change, well-being, corporate wellness, and culture of health coaching; digital therapeutics; stress management; mindfulness training; clinical psychology; and time management.

Hinge Health | 012722-HNG 
Musculoskeletal care, physical therapists, health coaches, physicians and surgeons, exercise therapy, motion tracking and pain relief technology, video physical therapy visits, educational health content, high-risk member intervention, and expert consultations with a surgeon.

Newtopia | 012722-NWT 
Chronic disease and weight management; disease and diabetes prevention; support for hypertension heart health, healthy living, and diabetes; whole health platform; engagement-based pricing model; healthcare and medical cost savings; twice-a-year payback; science-based habit change.

Omada Health | 012722-OMA
Health coaches, physical therapists, and proactive human care team; connected devices; computer vision technology; behavioral health and weight loss support; diabetes prevention; and high blood pressure, diabetes, and musculoskeletal care.

SWORD Health | 012722-SWD
Virtual physical therapy, musculoskeletal, and physical care; teletherapy and tele-physical therapy; digital healthcare; medical and musculoskeletal cost savings; telemedicine; and global capabilities.

Teladoc Health | 012722-TLD
Chronic condition management, diabetes care and management, complete hypertension and diabetes care, and mental health services.

Wondr Health | 012722-WDH 
Digital behavior change, clinically proven results, science-based weight loss plan, whole-health solutions, personalized and inclusive, proven financial ROI of 2.1x, weekly on-demand master class, stress-free implementation, full-featured mobile app, tailored communication, on-call health coaches, and WondrLink online community.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Two suppliers have been awarded contracts in the Lab Services and Testing with Related Products and Supplies category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to solutions for testing, screening, forensic, or diagnostic analysis; toxicology services; genetic and DNA testing; and related services and supplies, including test kits, collection equipment and materials, software and technology, and training, collection, transport, analysis, and more.

“In the past, Sourcewell has seen how impactful our awarded solutions can be in this highly technical space,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Michelle Spychalla. “We're excited about the newly awarded contracts and the opportunity to build on past success in this category.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

Cordant Health Solutions | 011222-CDT
Laboratory testing and adherence monitoring tools that provide actionable insights to help improve outcomes and more effectively manage substance use disorder and treatment. Solutions include instant drug testing devices; laboratory drug testing (urine, oral, blood, and hair); specimen collection services; and testing referral and drug testing case management.

Redwood Toxicology | 011222-RTL
Provider in drugs of abuse testing, with customer service and web-based tools to complement credentialed laboratory testing services and point-of-care devices to help clients detect and monitor drug abuse. Solutions include laboratory drug testing (urine and oral), rapid drug test devices (cup, dip, and swab), postmortem and Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID) toxicology testing, and specialty and esoteric drug tests. 

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Fire service buyers utilize cooperative purchasing organizations like Sourcewell, offering contracts that meet their procurement requirements without having to engage in a lengthy RFP process. Fire chiefs experience a fast process with transparent pricing and less paperwork.

Mike Harstad, Government Sales Specialist at Rosenbauer, continues to see an uptick in departments using cooperative purchasing contracts.

“More and more of the fire truck purchasing market has shifted to cooperative purchasing,” he explains. “Ten years ago, you would have seen that 80% of the trucks purchased in a given year would have been done by the old RFP or bid process. Today, more than 60% of the trucks purchased are done so via cooperative agreement.”

Sourcewell, a cooperative purchasing organization, supports the procurement process to give fire service leaders more flexibility.

“Cooperative purchasing is like mutual aid for your procurement process,” says Crosby Grindle, who provides strategic direction for Sourcewell's public safety market. “As a government agency, Sourcewell uses a solicitation process designed to create contracts that meet the procurement requirements of government agencies across the country, saving agencies time and money.”

“We're seeing an increase of customers seeking an alternative to the RFP process. Some of our long-term customers that have always required a lengthy RFP are now using Sourcewell,” says Harstad, noting the example of a large metropolitan county that once took six to 10 months to go from RFP to signed contract. “We recently completed a contract with them utilizing the Sourcewell contract that took that time down to six weeks.”

Many fire chiefs across the U.S. and Canada find it convenient to use Sourcewell's fire apparatus contracts because they already use the organization's contracts for other equipment.

“Their public safety portfolio includes fire apparatus, ambulances, PPE, breathing air, equipment, and support services,” says Fred Cureton, National Contracts Manager of REV Fire Group, a Sourcewell supplier since 2014.

Rosenbauer's Harstad adds that working with a trusted government purchasing agency gives fire service leaders real advantages.

“They find that their purchasing people are already well-versed in utilizing Sourcewell,” he says. “They already buy office supplies and other items, and most don't realize that they can also purchase fire trucks.”

At REV Fire Group, Cureton works with fire departments through both Sourcewell and other procurement entities.

“For those customers who have changed to Sourcewell from other contracts, or become new Sourcewell members, we find their experience to be very positive and they embrace the solutions within the Sourcewell contract,” Cureton adds.

Industry leaders see firsthand the benefits to fire chiefs who use Sourcewell for their procurement needs.

“Sutphen's customers have expressed great satisfaction with Sourcewell's ease-of-use and competitive cooperative purchasing rates,” says Zach Rudy, Director of Sales and Marketing at Sutphen. “Sutphen's relationship with Sourcewell has streamlined the purchasing process, enabling our customers to buy fire apparatus that their departments and their communities need.”

Such support from fire service industry leaders shows why Sourcewell is the only cooperative purchasing partner of the IAFC. The organization continues to expand, now representing nearly all major fire apparatus manufacturers in addition to the equipment and services fire departments need.

The growth of Sourcewell's public safety offerings, along with the increased preference of fire chiefs for cooperative purchasing, is the latest example of the organization's long, trusted relationship with fire service leadership.

Jeff Johnson, Executive Director of the Western Fire Chiefs Association, reflects on the 2021 announcement when FireRescue GPO became part of Sourcewell.

“We really wanted a great home for the FireRescue GPO program,” Johnson recalls, “a partner who can help us serve our members. Because of Sourcewell's size and strength in this space, most governments are already either using Sourcewell for something else or have some level of familiarity with them. Working with such a large agency saves fire chiefs and vendors the trouble of working elsewhere.”

As a government agency itself, Sourcewell's cooperative purchasing options save fire leaders time, effort, and money by connecting them with hundreds of awarded contracts with trusted manufacturers, says Sourcewell Manager of Supplier Development Tom Perttula.

“Over the past fiscal year, our catalog of contracts has helped agencies manage $6 billion worth of purchasing,” Perttula notes. “And beyond that, we continue to provide support in a variety of ways, including leasing options, customization of contracts, and the flexibility to execute amendments to contracts.”

Quicker turnaround, better pricing, less paperwork, ease of use – it's easy to understand the increasing trend in cooperative purchasing. Sourcewell, your FireRescue GPO, is working to give fire chiefs new options for fire apparatus purchasing.

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To learn more about Sourcewell's cooperative purchasing contracts for fire departments, visit sourcewell-mn.gov/resources-public-safety or call 877-585-9706.

If you're attending the Fire-Rescue International (FRI) conference in San Antonio from Aug. 24-26, 2022, stop and visit with Sourcewell representatives at Booth 640 in the exhibit hall.

Nine suppliers have been awarded Sourcewell contracts in the Public Safety Training and Simulation Equipment and Technology category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to training and simulation solutions for law enforcement, fire and rescue, EMS, and emergency management, including facilities, equipment, augmented or virtual reality technology, digital simulation software, instructional programs and training, and related services and support.

“At Sourcewell, we recognize that public safety agencies and their dedicated employees put their lives on the line every day for their communities. These challenging positions require top-line training and equipment in order to work effectively and efficiently,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Administrator Leslie Goral. “Firefighters, law enforcement, and emergency personnel can now access the comprehensive solutions they need through these awarded contracts.” 

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

ADS, Inc. | 011822-ADS 
Operational equipment, training, procurement, and logistics support; program management, kitted solutions, and contract navigation for tactical, medical, emergency management, and public safety entities.

CAE | 011822-CAE 
Specializing in medical simulation training solutions and services, including patient, ultrasound, and interventional simulators; curriculum development; simulation center design and management platforms; and professional training services.

Doron Precision Systems, Inc. | 011822-DRN 
Off-the-shelf, cost-effective simulator systems for driver training; over 25,000 simulators in more than 60 countries.

JHB Group | 011822-JHB 
Fire safety education and training solutions, including a U.S. patented fire safety simulator, specialty trailers, augmented reality fire extinguisher training systems, and virtual reality fire sprinkler demonstration equipment.

Laerdal Medical | 011822-LAE
Patient simulators and adult, geriatric, pediatric, maternal, and infant CPR manikins; nursing skills trainers for IV and ultrasounds; virtual nursing education; simulation debrief software; and a full service and education portfolio.

Lexipol | 011822-LXP
Public safety policy management platform; policy updates, training, and implementation; accreditation assistance; online training; learning management system; grant funding assistance; mobile wellness app; and first responder wellness programs.

LION First Responder | 011822-LIO
Providing technology allowing firefighters to train in countless locations and to stage a variety of situations to diversify training and ensure trainees are prepared to handle any real fire situation.

Virage Simulation, Inc. | 011822-VIR 
Simulator solutions for driver training, including trucks, commercial driver's license, car/rehabilitation, law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire, waste/recycling management, snowplows, and school and transit buses, with associated training programs and driver performance reporting.

WHP Trainingtowers | 011822-JHK
Live fire training towers, MODx modular training facilities, burn room lining, training accessories for NFPA 1402 inspections, hazmat, maritime, confined space, structural fire, tactical, and search and rescue. Turn-key supply, installation, and inspections.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.

Sourcewell was the only organization in the state of Minnesota to achieve this honor in 2019, 2020, 2021, and again in 2022.

Public and nonprofit agencies earn the AEP Award by demonstrating a commitment to procurement excellence. This annual program recognizes procurement organizations that embrace innovation, professionalism, productivity, leadership, and e-procurement.

Sourcewell Director of Operations and Procurement Jeremy Schwartz explained that the AEP Award validates organizations that have held themselves to the highest standards in public procurement. The overall criteria throughout the application process measures qualities important to a successful procurement department.

To earn the award each year, the AEP program encourages not only the development of excellence, but also the push for continued improvement.

“It's a humbling experience to submit our processes and results to the AEP evaluators for critique and appraisal, but the results are worth it in both affirming where we have made progress and also where we have opportunities for improvement,” Schwartz says. “We have a collaborative and cross-functional team that comes together each year to compile the supporting data and craft the narrative responses to the AEP questions. It is very rewarding to see the culmination of these efforts result in achieving this award.”

This year, 171 organizations were recognized for excellence in procurement, including:

• 36 counties
• 73 cities
• 14 higher education agencies
• 17 school districts
• 15 special districts
• 5 state or provincial agencies
• 11 additional organizations

This is the 27^th year the NPI has recognized organizations with the annual AEP Award. Click here for a complete list of awardees. 

Five suppliers have been awarded Sourcewell contracts in Fleet Management Services category, making their products and services available through cooperative purchasing.

These contracts offer access to services for on-road fleets, including leasing and financing, new vehicle preparation and equipment installation, roadside assistance, and maintenance and repair; as well as after-market products, programs for short-term rentals, roadside assistance, and fleet management information technologies.

“What we're seeing in the public fleet industry is a mechanic supply shortage,” says Sourcewell Supplier Development Supervisor Scott Carr. “With our fleet management services, fleet managers can offset the labor shortages and outsource it to our awarded suppliers to help manage their fleets more efficiently.”

Following a competitive solicitation process, Sourcewell awarded cooperative purchasing contracts offering access to these suppliers:

D&M Leasing | 030122-CVL
Full-service leasing and fleet management company solutions for government fleets nationwide, including open-end and municipal leases, vehicle maintenance and fuel programs, telematics, fleet replacement schedules, vehicle optimization analysis, driver safety, reporting, vehicle remarking, and license, title, and registration services.

Element Fleet | 030122-ELE
Offering a full range of services that address every aspect of government fleet, including leasing and financing options; acquisition and remarketing; title and registration; fuel and electric vehicle charging; vehicle maintenance; strategic consulting; garage, toll, and violation management; accident, safety, and compliance; telematics, and electric vehicles. 

Enterprise Fleet Management | 030122-EFM
Fleet management services including open-end and commercial vehicle leases; maintenance management, driver safety, and fuel card programs; telematics; vehicle performance data reporting; vehicle tracking and fleet planning technology; vehicle accident management solutions; and license, title, and registration services.

Holman | 030122-ARI
Supply chain, maintenance, garage, fuel, and accident management systems; leasing and purchasing; licensing and compliance; fleet sustainability; telematics; vehicle remarking; and driver safety, training, and compliance.

Merchants Fleet Management | 030122-MAG
Charging infrastructure, electric vehicles, and electric vehicle services; ready fleet; fleet leasing; short term leases and rentals; rent to lease conversion; vehicle maintenance and data management programs; connected vehicle technology and telematics; vehicle registration services; and remarketing and guaranteed buy.

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Sourcewell cooperative purchasing offers choice, value, and peace of mind. Contracts are competitively solicited and delivered through your local dealer or representative. Search our contracts to expand your purchasing options.

Learn more by contacting our client relations team at 877-585-9706 or email.