The Power of the Consortia: Why On-Time Orders Matter

Vita-Learn’s ability to negotiate these deeply discounted prices is entirely dependent on our collective strength. Last year, our consortia aggregated over $1 million dollars in software purchases. While some orders were as large as 2000 licenses, some of our smallest schools required 20 licenses.

By standing together, the smallest schools enjoy the same “buying power” as the largest. And for those who are the largest, remember that with the consortia, you are much larger. Buying 2000 licenses of a product is very different than being a part of a purchase that exceeds 30,000 licenses. However, this power is hampered when orders are submitted late. When we cannot present the full aggregated volume to the vendor on time, our negotiating leverage decreases. 

Action Item: If your school cannot issue a POs before June 30, or the person responsible for placing the orders will be on summer break in July, please make appropriate arrangements and begin your internal approval process now. Most of our license terms start August 1, and for those we need all orders finalized by July 15, 2026, to protect these rates for everyone. 

Incentive: Win a Registration for Vermont Fest! As a thank you for helping the consortia stay strong and timely, Vita-Learn is holding a special drawing. For every on-time order placed via the Purchasing Consortia for this summer purchasing season, your school will receive one entry into a drawing for a free 1-day registration to our annual Vermont Fest conference. Bonus: If the winning school sends a teacher who has never attended Vermont Fest before, we will upgrade the prize to a full 2-day registration! The drawing will be held in early September. Thank you for your continued partnership and for your commitment to providing the best tools for your students and teachers. If you have any questions regarding your renewal or the new 2-year pricing option, please don’t hesitate to reach out.