Please note that the deadline for the RFP for Provision of an Integrated Internet System for the Innovation Centre has been extended and is now due on March 21, 2024.
Schedule
- RFP Issue Date: February 27, 2024
- RFP Closing Date: March 21, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. NST
*Click here to access the RFP*
About the Innovation Centre
The Innovation Centre (IC) fosters industry, business, and ecosystem collisions across multiple sectors. It will enable collaboration and technology growth to accelerate the development of the innovation-driven economy across the province. This trailblazing initiative was born out of the needs of the innovation community and broader ecosystem. It is directly supported by techNL, in partnership with Energy NL, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC), and Energy Research & Innovation Newfoundland & Labrador (ERINL) with support from many other companies, organizations, and volunteers.
The IC is opening in Spring 2024, in a newly renovated 54,143 sq ft building, strategically situated within a growing innovation district. The building is ideally located near the airport, with highway access, and many nearby industry partners. There is a large open parking lot, that is free for visitor use. The space itself is dedicated to cultivating innovative connections, collaborations, and co-creations, between industry and established & growing businesses through unique programming, access to special technology assets, proximity to other innovators, and as a demonstration space providing visibility. More information can be found on techNL’s website https://technl.ca/innovationcentre/.
Scope of Work
This RFP seeks proposals from qualified vendors to supply and install an integrated internet system that includes both WiFi and wired connectivity solutions. The project spans office space (phase 1 and phase 2), light industrial space, and greenhouse aiming to secure the most effective and efficient connectivity solution. The objectives are to:
- To provide robust, reliable WiFi and wired internet coverage and connectivity.
- To ensure scalability and flexibility for future expansion and technological upgrades.
- To achieve optimal performance and user experience with cost-effective solutions.
The scope of work is described below:
- Supply and Installation: provision of all necessary hardware and software for WiFi and wired systems, including APs, controllers, switches, routers, and any ancillary equipment.
- Configuration and Setup: configuration of both WiFi and wired networks to meet specified requirements.
- Testing and Commissioning: ensuring both systems meet performance criteria.
Technical requirements:
- WiFi: Solutions must match or exceed Cambium Networks’ equipment capabilities, including indoor tri-band WiFi 6e APs and centralized management platforms.
- Wired Network: Proposals must detail the integration with existing wired infrastructure, ensuring high-speed, secure connectivity.
- Unified Management: A solution for centralized management of both WiFi and wired networks.
- Multiple SSIDs for Different User Groups: The proposal should include the provision for multiple Service Set Identifiers (SSIDs) to accommodate various user groups, including the Innovation Centre general network, members and the public. This entails:
- Secure Access: Implementing secure, potentially unique passwords for different tenants or groups (e.g., by company, floor) to ensure network security. Some tenants will want their own VLAN.
- Public Access: Offering a password-less or unique password option for public access, featuring a landing page for accepting terms and conditions of use.
- Network Protection: including firewall setups, intrusion detection/prevention systems, encryption protocols, and network segmentation. Establishing the public network as a VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) will safeguard the main/private network from unauthorized access by public users.
A significant amount of new infrastructure already exists, and all bidders are required to view the site to ensure an understanding of the existing infrastructure that needs to be included in the connection plan. Please send an email to maria@technl.ca to confirm your participation in the viewing and to access the heatmap and floorplan of the areas to be connected to the internet. The viewing is scheduled for Friday, March 1st, 2-3 pm, at 710 Torbay Road, St. John’s. PLEASE NOTE: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required and not provided.
Optional Post-Installation Management Services:
We invite proposals for optional post-installation management services to ensure the continuous optimal performance of the integrated internet system (network performance, security, uptime, etc.). This service would include ongoing monitoring, maintenance, updates, and support and should be priced separately. Recognizing the importance of uninterrupted and efficient operation, this optional service offers an opportunity for vendors to provide added value through expert management of the system. Vendors can also bid for this service only. Details regarding the scope, service levels, and pricing of these management services will be tailored to the specific needs of the project and discussed further with selected vendors.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
We welcome sponsorships from vendors and partners looking to reduce project costs and, in turn, gain significant visibility within the tech business community in Newfoundland and Labrador. This RFP presents a unique opportunity for sponsors to showcase their commitment to technological advancement and community support. Specific details regarding the acknowledgment of sponsors and the benefits they will receive will be discussed individually, ensuring a mutually beneficial arrangement that aligns with the project’s visibility and sponsorship goals.