Voluntary Pre-Bid Meeting Notes

This document comprises voluntary pre-bid meeting notes for the Cascades West Innovation Hub Project Management Request for Proposals issued by the Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG) on behalf of Business Oregon. The procurement seeks qualified firms to provide comprehensive project management services for the Innovation Hub, which will support traded-sector businesses across Benton, Lane, Lincoln, and Linn counties. Key deliverables include developing a system-wide operating framework, establishing governance structures, planning a launch event, identifying lead entities and fiscal agents, and piloting Innovation Hub activities. The proposal deadline is 5:00 PM PST on September 9, 2024, with the contract term extending through June 20, 2025, with potential for future extension. The voluntary pre-bid meeting provided respondents the opportunity to ask clarifying questions and better understand project requirements and expectations.

The total available funding for this project is $85,000 to support the development and initial implementation of the Innovation Hub's operational framework. OCWCOG explicitly encourages participation from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises and requires all respondents to submit a Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan as part of their proposals. No incumbent vendors are specified for this procurement. Evaluation will focus on the firm's economic development background, community engagement approach, project management capability, proposed methodology, cost structure, and professional references. Respondents must demonstrate substantial experience in economic development, particularly in supporting traded-sector businesses and creating scalable regional economic initiatives.