Proposed Sole Source Purchase of Matlab Software

Background

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is seeking to procure individual academic licenses for MATLAB and associated toolboxes, including Simulink, from The MathWorks, Inc. This procurement is intended for use by named faculty, staff, and researchers across multiple departments at USM for teaching and research purposes. The goal of this contract is to ensure that USM has access to the industry-standard platform for technical computing that supports cross-departmental collaboration.

Work Details

The contract involves the purchase of individual academic licenses for MATLAB software and various associated toolboxes, including Simulink. These licenses are specifically designated for named users within USM's mathematics, science, engineering, and research departments. The MathWorks has confirmed that these licenses are sold exclusively through them, with no third-party resellers available. A formal quote was obtained from MathWorks reflecting academic pricing, which is the lowest available tier for individual licenses.

Period of Performance

The solicitation process includes a comment period until 8:00 a.m. Central Time on July 30, 2026.

Place of Performance

The licenses will be utilized at the University of Southern Mississippi located in Hattiesburg, MS.

Bidder Requirements

Any objections to this sole source procurement must be submitted in writing by June 30, 2026. Objections must include a detailed explanation and appropriate documentation supporting the claim that the commodity can be provided by another entity.