Additional Services ET&T Offers for Local Government Contracts
At ET&T, we aim to be a one-stop shop for all your technology needs. Beyond managed IT services, we offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to support government and non-profit organizations, including:
Business Communication Platforms
Seamless communication solutions tailored to your operational requirements.
Networking & Structured Cabling
Reliable and scalable network infrastructure to support your day-to-day operations.
Security Camera Installation
Advanced surveillance systems to enhance security across government facilities.
Ongoing IT Support
24/7 managed IT services to ensure everything runs smoothly and your systems are protected.
55
Years in Business
200+
Customers Who've Been With Us for 10 or More Years
4500+
Businesses Served
What Is the COSTARS Program?
COSTARS is Pennsylvania's cooperative purchasing program, specifically designed to help local government entities, educational institutions, and certain non-profit organizations save time and money. By leveraging state-negotiated rates, COSTARS participants can procure products and services without the need for a lengthy bidding process, ultimately allowing them to focus on their core responsibilities while benefiting from competitive pricing.
In the Lehigh Valley, entities such as school districts, police and fire departments, townships, boroughs and municipalities utilize COSTARS to enhance operational efficiency while adhering to budget constraints.
About ET&T's COSTARS Program
Will COSTARS Expiring Affect Existing Contracts with
ET&T?
No, COSTARS contracts are still active. However, some
non-state agencies, including local governments, transit authorities, and
certain non-profits, will no longer be able to use COSTARS for future
purchases. Rest assured, ET&T will continue to honor all existing contracts
and pricing for our active clients. There is no need for a new contract unless
new services are being quoted or agreed upon. ET&T remains your dedicated
partner, providing continuous support and services under the terms of your
current agreement.
What Cybersecurity Strategies Does ET&T Offer for COSTARS Participants?
Given the sensitive nature of public data handled by government contractors, ET&T implements robust cybersecurity measures to ensure the security and integrity of your information. Following the guidelines set by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Office of Administration, ET&T helps local government agencies and other COSTARS members adopt cutting-edge cybersecurity strategies.
Essential Cybersecurity Strategies:
Multi-Layered Security Solutions: We implement advanced monitoring, vulnerability testing, and data protection to prevent cyberattacks and reduce risks.
Continuous Threat Monitoring: Our proactive approach helps identify potential vulnerabilities and neutralize threats before they can cause damage.
Compliance and Data Protection: We help you meet critical compliance standards, such as HIPAA and PCI, ensuring the protection of sensitive data, including patient health and payment information.
Incident Response: We provide table-top exercises and planning for breach remediation, ensuring rapid and effective response in case of an attack.
ET&T operates under pre-negotiated rates published by the state, which eliminates the need for a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This enables you to purchase IT and technology solutions directly, streamlining procurement and saving valuable time. While we don't have specific "discounts," the COSTARS contracts allow eligible buyers to access competitive pricing that has been approved by the state, ensuring you get high-value services at fair rates.
How Do Local Governments in the Lehigh Valley and Surrounding Areas Sign Up with ET&T for a
COSTARS Contract?
If your organization is eligible for COSTARS, ET&T makes the process simple and seamless. Here's how it works:
Discovery Call: Schedule a call with our team to discuss your eligibility and specific needs.
On-Site Survey: We'll send a solutions engineer to conduct an on-site survey to evaluate your project requirements
Proposal: Based on our findings, we'll deliver a custom proposal that aligns with your needs and budget.
What other state purchasing vehicles are available to ET&T customers?
It is expected for the COSTARs program to be available via the Pennsylvania PBX Telephone Systems, Equipment, and Related Services contract in 2025. ET&T will continue to honor all existing contracts and pricing for our active clients. ET&T offers a number of additional cooperative purchasing programs as well, including:
COSTARS-3
PEPPM
Security and Surveillance
Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Contract
ITQ
With ET&T, you can rest assured that you're working with a trusted, experienced partner who is ready to support your technology needs.
What State Contracts Does ET&T Participate In?
ET&T is a preferred vendor for multiple state contracts, making it easier for government entities in Lehigh Valley to access our services. These include:
- Master
IT Services ITQ: IT Communications Equipment & Services PA# 4400004480
- DGS
COSTARS PBX & Key Telephone Systems, Equipment & Services PA#
4400017875
- Security
and Surveillance Systems & Services PA# 040-E23-229
FAQs About the COSTARS Program and ET&T’s Services
Will the changes to the COSTARS program affect my existing contract with ET&T?
No, we will continue to honor your current contract and pricing. New contracts will only be required for additional services.
What cybersecurity measures does ET&T offer for government contracts?
ET&T offers multi-layered security, proactive threat monitoring, compliance support, and incident response services to ensure your data remains secure.
How do I start working with ET&T under the COSTARS program?
Simply contact us to schedule a discovery call, and we'll guide you through the process of utilizing your COSTARS eligibility.
What other services can ET&T provide beyond IT support?
ET&T offers business phone systems, structured cabling, surveillance systems, and ongoing IT support to meet all your technology needs.
