Need a It / Networking Contract in Minnesota? AroundWire Can Help

In Minnesota, IT/Networking service contracts—whether with state agencies or local government entities—are shaped by a combination of state procurement statutes and industry best practices. Contracts typically require vendors to comply with Minnesota Statutes Chapter 16C (state procurement law), which mandates competitive bidding or proposal processes and incorporates requirements for equal opportunity, affirmative action, and data privacy (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Chapter 13). Vendors must register with the Secretary of State and, if applicable, hold a current Minnesota IT vendor certification. Cybersecurity and data protection clauses are standard, obligating compliance with state and federal privacy laws, and may require third-party security audits. Insurance requirements are robust: general liability, professional liability (often with cyber risk coverage), and workers’ compensation are standard, with specified minimums and the state named as an additional insured. Contracts often include indemnification clauses favoring the state and limitations on liability may be restricted. Payment terms typically follow a net-30 schedule, subject to prompt payment statutes, but milestone or deliverable-based payments are common for larger projects. Dispute resolution usually favors negotiation and mediation before litigation, with venue specified in Minnesota courts. State contracts may also include requirements for performance bonds, background checks for personnel, and adherence to accessibility standards (such as Section 508 or WCAG). Strict adherence to contract deliverables, reporting, and audit rights is expected, reflecting a risk-averse, compliance-driven contracting environment.