Streamline Your Infrastructure Projects with TIPS & E-Rate
The compliant, fast-track way for Texas Schools and Public Agencies to procure Division 27/28 services.
Who this page is for: Technology, security, and purchasing leaders who want to use TIPS or E-Rate to work with The Brass Effect (TBE), a Texas-certified service-disabled veteran HUB (VetHUB) vendor.
Our Contracts at a Glance
As a TIPS-Awarded and E-Rate registered vendor — and a Texas-certified service-disabled veteran HUB (VetHUB) — The Brass Effect provides compliant procurement pathways for public-sector technology projects.
| Procurement Vehicle | Contract Number | Eligible Scope |
|---|---|---|
| TIPS – Technology Solutions | #250106 | Managed IT, cloud, cybersecurity, network hardware, wireless, A/V, and security electronics. |
| TIPS – Trades, Labor & Materials (Non-JOC) | #25010401 | Structured cabling (Cat6/6A), fiber backbones, MDF/IDF buildouts, racks, pathways, and MAC work. |
| E-Rate Service Provider | SPIN #143051161 | Category 2 eligible services – cabling, switching, Wi-Fi, internal connections, and related support. |
Texas VetHUB (Service-Disabled Veteran HUB) Status
The Brass Effect is certified by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts as a service-disabled veteran-owned (SDV) small business under the Veteran Heroes United in Business (VetHUB) program. This designation confirms that TBE is a Texas-based SDV small business that meets the state’s updated HUB/VetHUB eligibility standards.
Where your agency tracks VetHUB or small-business participation, qualifying purchases with TBE can be counted toward your internal utilization objectives, while still leveraging TIPS and E-Rate for compliant procurement.
Why Use TIPS?
Make Technology Procurement Simple, Compliant, and Fast
As a TIPS-Awarded Vendor, The Brass Effect has already undergone the rigorous competitive bidding process. This allows your district or agency to procure our services immediately—saving you months of RFP administration while remaining 100% compliant with EDGAR and Texas state laws.
That means your district or agency can purchase from TBE now, using contracts that already meet your bidding and audit requirements.
Speed
Skip the 3-6 month RFP cycle. Start projects in weeks, not months.
Compliance
Satisfies competitive bidding requirements for most Texas entities.
Confidence
Work with a vetted, experienced vendor who has been through the competitive process.
Our Contract Scopes
TIPS Contract #25010401 – Trades, Labor & Materials (Non-JOC)
Best for hands-on infrastructure work.
- Low-voltage cabling support for cameras, access control, and A/V devices.
- Structured cabling (Cat6/Cat6A) and Fiber backbones
- MDF/IDF clean-up, rework, and organization
- Racks, cable management, and pathways
- "Moves, Adds, Changes" (MAC) services
TIPS Contract #250106 – Technology Solutions
Best for hardware and managed services.
- Bundled solutions combining hardware, licensing, and services under a single TIPS purchase.
- Network equipment and Wireless systems
- Avigilon Video Surveillance & Access Control
- Classroom A/V and Boardroom control systems
- Managed IT, Cloud, and Cybersecurity services
How It Works
From Request to Project Delivery
Step 1
Confirm Membership
Ensure your district or agency is a TIPS member. Membership is free.
Not sure? TBE can help you confirm your membership or connect you with TIPS to get set up.
Step 2
Define Scope
Share your goals with TBE. We map your scope to the correct contract number.
Step 3
Receive Proposal
We prepare a formal quote referencing the specific TIPS Contract Number with compliant pricing.
Step 4
Internal Review
Your purchasing team issues a Purchase Order referencing the TIPS Contract Number.
Step 5
Delivery & Reporting
We execute the work and handle required TIPS reporting for audit compliance.
Real World Scenario
The Situation
A K–12 district needs a multi-campus refresh: new wireless access points, classroom displays, and additional security cameras. They want to avoid managing three separate bids.
The Solution
Using TIPS, the district engages TBE. We bundle the labor/cabling under Contract #25010401 and the hardware/electronics under Contract #250106. The district issues a single PO. The project starts in weeks, not months.
E-Rate Category 2 Support
The Brass Effect is a registered Service Provider (SPIN #143051161). We support school districts and libraries in maximizing their Category 2 funding for:
Internal Connections
Cabling, Switches, Routers, and network infrastructure components eligible for E-Rate funding.
Basic Maintenance (BMIC)
Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections to keep your funded infrastructure operational.
Managed Services (MIBS)
Managed Internal Broadband Services for ongoing network management and support.
Our team can help you navigate E-Rate requirements, prepare Form 471 documentation, and coordinate installations to maximize your federal funding while maintaining compliance with program rules. While we are not an E-Rate consulting firm, we work alongside your internal team or E-Rate consultant to make sure the infrastructure side is scoped, documented, and delivered correctly.
