2025-015_Leadership_Development_Training_Coaching__Mentoring.pdf

Gavin Newsom, Governor Jennifer Lucchesi, Director

Rev. 1/2026

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL – Secondary Method

Notice to Prospective Proposers

February 19, 2026

RFP NO.: 2025-015

TITLE: Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

The California State Department of Conservation (Department) requires a qualified training professional to develop customized training and provide coaching and mentoring that enhance leadership work practices and enable the Department to sustain a successful, high performing workforce. You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP), entitled 2025- 015 Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring. In submitting your proposal, you must comply with these instructions listed herein. The Department must receive proposals by March 6, 2026 at 1:00 PM.

Note that all agreements entered into with the State of California will include by reference General Terms and Conditions (02/2025) and Contractor Certification Clauses (04/2017). If you do not have Internet access, a hard copy can be provided by contacting the person listed below.

In the opinion of the Department, this RFP is complete and without need of explanation. However, the Department may release, in a timely manner, an addendum to this RFP. Potential proposers may submit questions regarding intent, expectations, or other topics pertaining to the actual proposal by contacting Stefanie Bican via email at: ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov. Questions must be received by February 25, 2026 at 5:00 PM. All questions received by the Department will be answered and posted to Cal eProcure by February 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

Please note that no verbal information given will be binding upon the State unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum.

Stefanie Bican Department Contracts Analyst ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language mailto:ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov https://www.caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx mailto:ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov

Department of Conservation RFP Number 2025-015

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

Rev. 1/2026

Table of Contents I. Description of Services

A. Overview B. Period of Performance/Available Funding C. Project Times and Locations D. Work to be Performed E. Contractor Shall F. Department Shall G. Reschedule and Cancellation Policy H. Contractor Evaluation I. Settlement of Disputes J. Ownership K. Schedule of Task Completion L. Executive Order N-6-22 – Russia Sanctions M. Generative Artificial Intelligence Technology Use & Reporting

II. Budget Detail and Payment Provisions A. Invoicing and Payment B. Budget Contingency Clause C. Prompt Payment Clause

III. Proposer Minimum Qualifications IV. References V. Resumes of Proposer and Sub-Contractor(s) VI. Proposal Requirements and Information

A. Key Action Dates and Times B. Questions and Answers C. Work Plan and Work Schedule Requirements D. Cost Detail Format and Requirements E. Submission of Proposal F. Evaluation Process G. Award and Protest H. Disposition of Proposals I. Payee Data Record J. Contractor Certification Clauses (CCC 04/2017) K. Tax Delinquent Status Verification L. Preference Programs M. Commercially Useful Function (CUF)

VII. Required Attachments Attachment 1: Required Attachment Checklist Attachment 2: Bid Sheet and Response Attachment 3: Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet Attachment 4: Bid/Bidder Declaration Attachment 5: Darfur Act Certification Attachment 6: Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Declarations (STD 843) Attachment 7: Bidder References Attachment 8: California Civil Rights Laws Certification Attachment 9: Economic Incentive Program

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

Rev. 1/2026

Attachment 10: Bidder’s Summary of Contract Activities and Labor Hours (DGS/PD 526) Attachment 11: Contractor Certification Clause (4/2017)

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

I. Description of Services

A. Overview

The Department of Conservation (Department) requires the services of a qualified training professional to develop customized training and provide coaching and mentoring that enhances leadership work practices and enables the Department to sustain a successful, high performing workforce. The Department provides services and information to promote environmental health, economic vitality, informed land-use decisions and sound management of our state's natural resources. The Department intends to award one (1) service contract for this RFP.

B. Period of Performance/Available Funding

The schedule of performance of the Agreement shall be from April 15, 2026, or upon Department of General Services (DGS) approval, whichever is later, through March 31, 2030. The Contractor agrees to start work no later than thirty (30) days after DGS approval, or a mutually agreed upon time. A Phase 1 training course must take place within ninety (90) days of DGS approval regardless of the agreed upon start date. The Department will award a maximum of $500,000.00 for the Agreement.

Upon mutual consent, the Department and the Contractor may execute amendments to the executed Agreement for time due to unanticipated delays, including but not limited to availability or trainers and training attendees. A variation of the terms (i.e. change in project representative) requires mutual consent from the Department and Contractor and may be done through email. No verbal understanding, or agreement not incorporated into the executed Agreement is binding on either party.

C. Project Times and Locations

Training and coaching/mentoring sessions will take place during business hours, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, except State holidays. Sessions may occur outside of regular business hours if approved by the Department Project Representative. Exact session dates and times will be mutually agreed upon after the execution of this Agreement. Trainings may be conducted via both live instructor-led virtual courses and in-person courses, or a combination of both, as determined by the Department. Live instructor-led trainings will be held at the following three (3) CalGEM offices or a facility near the CalGEM offices listed below:

• 715 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

• 11000 River Run Boulevard, Bakersfield, CA 93311

• 3780 Kilroy Airport Way Suite 400, Long Beach, CA 90806

PLEASE NOTE: The Department requires that training be developed in both virtual and in-person formats regardless of how the trainings are presented.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

D. Work to be Performed

Contractor agrees to provide the Department with all services as described herein:

• Training, coaching, and mentoring will be conducted via both live instructor-led virtual courses and in-person courses, or a combination of both.

• PLEASE NOTE: The Department is not looking for on-demand training or strength-based leadership coaching.

Deliverables:

Task 1: Coaching and Mentoring

• Objective: To provide coaching and mentoring that will build on a new or seasoned manager, supervisor, or executive’s current ability and help them to perform at a higher level.

• Actions:

Hold coaching sessions with staff approved by the Department Project Representative, Department Training Officer, or Department Designee. The Contractor will coordinate with the approved staff to arrange coaching sessions. During these sessions, the Contractor shall work with staff to work through their challenges.

Application assignments: designated readings, coaching expectations, simulation exercises, etc. to be completed by next session.

Create an open environment of confidentiality to discuss current obstacles and desired outcomes.

Contractor shall provide 200 hours of professional coaching.

Coaches shall be experienced in communicating and providing sound problem-solving resolution strategies with management.

Coaching and mentoring sessions are confidential, meaning the substance of the conversations between the Contractor and employee are not shared or voluntarily disclosed with anyone by the Contractor. The Department agrees to not request information about the substantive content of the training sessions. An exception to confidentiality will be invoked and mandatory reporting will be made by the Contractor to the Department and/or appropriate authorities if there is any discussion by the employee of harm to self or others that occurs in the one-on-one sessions or in any related communication.

Task 2: Transitioning into Leadership

• Required course topics:

Strategies to move from “technical expert” to “people leader” Adapting a leadership mindset and developing an effective leadership style that creates a culture of trust and establishes credibility Setting clear expectations and boundaries without destroying relationships Understanding and adapting to various work styles Effective meeting and facilitation skills

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• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and

Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

If a course is conducted virtually, Contractor must record one (1) course session to provide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee.

Task 3: Decision Making and Prioritization

Concepts, tools, and standards to make ethical decisions reflecting organizational mission and values Use Responsible, Accountable, Supportive, Consulted, and Informed/Rapid Action

Decisions (RASCI/RAD) matrices for clarity in roles and decisions Communicating decisions effectively to staff and stakeholders Tools, technique and strategies for prioritization, time management and workload planning

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

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Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Task 4: Dealing with Difficult Situations and Conflict

Prepare and deliver crucial conversations with empathy and respect Strategies for conflict resolution Communicating change initiatives effectively and dealing with resistance When and how to pass down information with transparency

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and

Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Task 5: Leading Supervisors

Empowering managers and staff to exercise sound judgement and communicate decisions effectively Modeling the way and mentoring across multiple levels of leadership.

Monitoring unit performance and morale.

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and

Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

Rev. 1/2026 virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Task 6: Situational Leadership

The four (4) leadership styles of Situational leadership Diagnose development levels of individuals for a specific task Learn to apply the right amount of supervision for higher productivity and improved results Train to coach staff for accountability, personal growth and goal setting

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and

Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Task 7: Building High Performing Teams

Examine individual and group behaviors that lead to success while exploring strategies for developing diverse, high-performing work teams

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

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Tools and techniques to foster a collaborative workplace culture and encourage cross collaboration with other divisions to strengthen teams

Learn team building techniques and exercises to build relationships and connections Develop skills to empower, engage, and mentor teams to increase productivity and problem solving and improve employee retention

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Task 8: Strategic Thinking

Strategic thinking for navigating complex, uncertain environments and making high-level decisions that align with team goals and department’s vision.

Improve analytical and critical thinking skills. Utilize tools to analyze trends, internal capabilities and potential risks.

Encourage out of the box thinking to generate new ideas, challenge the status quo and identify new opportunities Enhance collaborative problem-solving by encouraging the consideration of multiple viewpoints to address complex issues. Include cross collaboration outside your program.

Moving from conceptual planning to practical implementation, managing resources effectively, and measuring outcomes

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and

Department challenges.

Deliver a 3-hour customized training for up to 215 managers on the required topics of this task. Training may need to be conducted in multiple sessions at each site and/or

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

Rev. 1/2026 virtually. This may be accomplished through one large group or small groups with about 40 learners in each group.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Task 9: Strategic Leadership – Driving Culture, Influence, and Measurable Impact

Establishing and defining a consistent culture throughout the Department by communicating a unifying vision and mission, and setting goals and values for the Department in the context of larger statewide initiatives. Linking tasks to macro-organizational goals

Creating an environment of psychological safety Decision-making (under complex situations/risk) Building department-wide influence through effective communication strategies for internal and external stakeholders, including the media and state legislature; include getting people’s buy-in with the “why”

Provide a comprehensive method for quantifying leadership efforts at micro and macro levels using tools like the balanced scorecard

• Actions:

Design a baseline management model using industry best practices to provide some level of consistency across the Department.

Create the training to address the identified training outcomes, training objectives and

Department challenges.

Deliver one (1) 6-hour customized training for up to 30 executives on the objective of this task.

Provide training content that must include various presentation techniques that appeal to learners using PowerPoint and participant handouts or guides, and may include flip charts, templates, and exercises.

Provide the corresponding PowerPoint presentation with Instructor notes and/or script for each slide to the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first course in Sacramento or first virtual course.

Within 45 days of the first Sacramento course or first virtual course, conduct a content and knowledge transfer session with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee so the Department may maintain each course in-house.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

E. Contractor Shall

• Provide experienced instructors who can maximize training initiative, increase operational efficiency, and expand employees' professional and leadership development.

• Meet with the Department Project Representative, Department Training Officer, and/or Department Designee to discuss the goals and needs of the Department, to identify the specific leadership competencies that will be used during coaching and mentoring sessions, and to have a deeper understanding of the course objectives.

• Develop all training courses with the option of both in-person and virtual activities so the courses are equally effective in either format. Provide all activities in the PowerPoint presentation with the Department Training Officer or Department Designee prior to the first session in Sacramento.

• Use Microsoft Teams or Zoom and provide a link via email to TBD at least five (5) days prior to the date of training for all virtual training.

• Within 48 hours of a training course completion, email the attendance list to TBD. Attendance lists can be a downloadable spreadsheet or a scanned attendance list, if the training is in person.

• Provide flip charts, whiteboards, easels, markers, handouts for exercises, and any additional materials or supplies to facilitate training, coaching, and mentoring sessions.

F. Department Shall

• Work with the Contractor to coordinate mutually agreed upon dates and start times for the training courses that must span the months of May 2026 to December 2029. A Phase 1 training course must take place within ninety (90) days of DGS approval regardless of the agreed upon start date. Coaching and mentoring sessions will span the months of May 2026 to March 2030.

• Provide a meeting link for the attendees to attend the course, when virtual.

• Provide meeting space and facilities including tables, chairs, audio/visual equipment, internet, and attendee computers for in-person, on-site training.

G. Reschedule and Cancellation Policy

Cancellation of a scheduled group training session by the Department is only permissible by the Department Project Representative via email to the Contractor and will require at least 48 hours’ notice prior to the start date of a scheduled training session. Cancellations received within 48 hours of the start date of the session will not be charged. Cancellations received less than 48 hours before the start date of a class will be reimbursed for seven percent (7%) of the cost of the cancelled training session.

Cancellation of a scheduled mentoring and coaching session is only permissible by the Department Project Representative via email to the Contractor and will require at least 48-hours’ notice prior to the start date of a scheduled session. Cancellations received within 48 hours of the start date of the session will not be charged. Cancellations received less than 48 hours before the start date of the session will be charged at full price. “No shows” are charged the full price of the scheduled session.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

If the Contractor cancels a training session at any time, the Department will not incur a cost. The Contractor shall immediately notify the Department Project Representative by email and phone of a cancellation, need to reschedule, or change in start time.

The Department shall be responsible for scheduling participants with courses and finding substitutes, if necessary.

Both parties may reschedule a training session by mutual consent at no additional cost to the Department.

H. Contractor Evaluation

Within sixty (60) days of completion of the Agreement, the Contractor’s performance will be evaluated by the Department. The Department shall document the performance of the Contractor in doing the work or in delivering the services or which the contract was awarded. If the Contractor did not satisfactorily perform the work or services specified in the contract, the Department shall place one (1) copy of the unsatisfactory form in the contract file and send one (1) copy of the form to the Department of General Services, Office of Legal Services (DGS/OLS) within five (5) working days of completion of the evaluation.

Upon filing an unsatisfactorily evaluation with DGS/OLS, the Department shall notify and send a copy of the evaluation to the Contractor within fifteen (15) days. The Contractor shall have thirty

(30) days to submit a written response to the evaluation by the Department.

I. Settlement of Disputes

In the event of a dispute, the Contractor shall file a “Notice of Dispute” (NOD) with the Department within ten (10) days of discovering the problem. The NOD shall summarize the issue and provide all relevant information. Within ten (10) days of receiving the NOD, the Department representatives shall meet with the Contractor to discuss the issue(s). The Department’s failure or inability to meet with the Contractor within 10 days of receiving the NOD shall not prejudice any of the Department’s legal rights.

Any dispute concerning a question of fact arising under the terms of this Agreement which is not disposed of within a reasonable period of time by the Contractor and State employees normally responsible for the administration of this Agreement shall be brought to the attention of the Executive Officer or designated representative of each organization for resolution. The decision of the State Executive Officer or designated representative shall be final.

In the event of a dispute concerning conflicting language, the language contained within this Agreement shall prevail over any other language.

The existence of an unresolved dispute shall not relieve the Contractor from contractual or performance obligations not affected by the dispute.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

J. Ownership

The Department retains all rights, title, and interest to all training materials and courses which the Contractor creates in connection with its performance of services hereunder. The Department shall not distribute or republish any content to a third-party and shall retain it for internal Department use for future training purposes.

K. Schedule of Task Completion

Provide a timeline schedule for the completion of each task. Deadline dates are subject to change with approval of an amendment to this agreement. Phase 1 tasks must be completed in the first two (2) years of the contract. Phase 2 tasks must be completed in the last two (2) years of the contract. Task due dates must be proposed as timeframes in months.

Task Number Task Due Date (in months)

1 (Determined by proposal timeline)

Phase 1 April 15, 2026 to April 14, 2028

2 (Determined by proposal timeline)

3 (Determined by proposal timeline)

4 (Determined by proposal timeline)

5 (Determined by proposal timeline)

Phase 2 April 15, 2028 to March 31, 2030

6 (Determined by proposal timeline)

7 (Determined by proposal timeline)

8 (Determined by proposal timeline)

9 (Determined by proposal timeline)

L. Executive Order N-6-22 – Russia Sanctions

On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (the EO) regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals. “Economic Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S. government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. By submitting a bid or proposal, Contractor represents that it is not a target of Economic Sanctions. Should the State determine Contractor is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for rejection of the Contractor’s bid/proposal any time prior to contract execution, or, if determined after contract execution, shall be grounds for termination by the State.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

M. Generative Artificial Intelligence Technology Use & Reporting

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

Bidder / Offeror must notify the State in writing if it: (1) intends to provide GenAI as a deliverable to the State; or (2), intends to utilize GenAI, including GenAI from third parties, to complete all or a portion of any deliverable that materially impacts: (i) functionality of a State system, (ii) risk to the State, or (iii) Contract performance. For avoidance of doubt, the term “materially impacts” shall have the meaning set forth in State Administrative Manual (SAM) § 4986.2 Definitions for GenAI.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may result in disqualification. The State reserves the right to seek any and all relief to which it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon notification by a Bidder / Offeror of GenAI as required, the State reserves the right to incorporate GenAI Special Provisions into the final contract or reject bids/offers that present an unacceptable level of risk to the State.

Government Code 11549.64 defines “Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)” as an artificial intelligence system that can generate derived synthetic content, including text, images, video, and audio that emulates the structure and characteristics of the system’s training data.

II. Budget Detail and Payment Provisions

A. Invoicing and Payment

Payment for services performed under the Agreement will be made upon receipt of an acceptable invoice. The Contractor shall invoice the Department upon successful completion of services rendered. Invoices may be submitted upon successful completion of services rendered, but not more frequently than once a month, and must be sent to either the physical address or email below:

715 P Street, MS 1807 Sacramento, CA 95814

ATTN: TBD

Email Address TBD

Please note that invoices not submitted to one of the above listed addresses run the risk of not being received by the appropriate unit for processing or the appropriate unit not being aware that an invoice has been submitted. To ensure an invoice is received for processing and to start the Prompt Payment process, it must be delivered to one of the addresses listed above.

An acceptable invoice must include:

• Date(s) of work performance

• Contractor’s name and address

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• Department’s name and address

• Department Agreement number

• Appropriate itemization, including training course name and date of training; or mentor/ coaching session date(s), attendee name(s) and length of session.

Progress payments will be made for services performed under the Agreement for Tasks 2-9, not less than ten-percent (10%) of each task amount shall be withheld pending completion of each content and knowledge transfer sessions.

The Department will verify and approve or disapprove the invoice item(s). If the Department does not approve the invoices item(s), the Department will dispute the invoice, per Prompt Payment Act, and provide opportunity to the Contractor to resolve the dispute.

B. Budget Contingency Clause

It is mutually agreed that if the State Budget Act of the current year and/or any subsequent years covered under the Agreement does not appropriate sufficient funds for the program, the Agreement shall be of no further force and effect. In this event, the State shall have no liability to pay any funds whatsoever to the Contractor or to furnish any other considerations under the Agreement and the Contractor shall not be obligated to perform any provisions of the Agreement.

If funding for any fiscal year is reduced or deleted by the Budget Act for purposes of this program, the State shall have the option to either cancel the Agreement with no liability occurring to the State or offer an Agreement amendment to the Contractor to reflect the reduced amount.

C. Prompt Payment Clause

Payment will be made in accordance with and within the time specified in the California Government Code Chapter 4.5, commencing with Section 927.

III. Proposer Minimum Qualifications

In order for proposals to be considered responsive, Proposers must provide proof of meeting or exceeding the below minimum qualifications:

1. Have a minimum of five (5) years of experience training and consulting for an executive team

2. Provide three (3) references demonstrating training experience. One (1) reference must be for training performed with the State of California.

3. Demonstrate experience facilitating instructor-led training for course(s) similar to those within the Work to be Performed

4. Proof of DGS certified small business

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IV. References

Provide three (3) references with a brief description of services provided within the last five (5) years. References must be provided using the attached Proposer References Form. References must demonstrate the Proposers ability to meet or exceed the minimum qualifications. One reference must be for training performed with the State of California.

Substitute personnel must meet the same minimum qualifications as described in this RFP. During performance of the Agreement, the Contractor must request prior written approval from the Department in advance of substitutions to receive reimbursement for associated costs.

V. Resumes of Proposer and Sub-Contractor(s)

The Proposer shall list all key personnel (i.e. Project Manager) and other personnel who will be working on the project. Include their titles, qualifications, a summary of similar work/studies performed, a resume for each professional, a statement indicating how many hours each professional will be assigned to what tasks each professional will perform.

Substitute personnel must meet the same minimum qualifications as described in this RFP. During performance of the Agreement, the Contractor must request prior written approval from the Department in advance of substitutions to receive reimbursement for associated costs.

VI. Proposal Requirements and Information

A. Key Action Dates and Times

The following schedule has been established for informational purposes. Efforts will be made to adhere to this plan, but the Department reserves the right to adjust the dates as required by circumstances. All deadline times are Pacific Time Zone.

Event Date RFP available to prospective Proposers February 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM Written Questions Submission Deadline February 25, 2026 at 5:00 PM Responses to Questions February 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM Final Date for Proposal Submission March 6, 2026 at 1:00 PM Reviewing and Evaluating Proposals March 9, 2026 through March 23, 2026 Notice of Intent to Award** March 24, 2026 Proposed Award Date** April 3, 2026

**All dates after Submission of Final Proposals are approximate and may be adjusted as conditions indicate, without addendum to this RFP.

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

B. Questions and Answers

Proposers requiring clarification of the intent or content of this RFP or on procedural matters regarding the competitive proposal process may request clarification by submitting questions in an email to the Department’s contact person listed on page one. To ensure a response, questions must be received in writing by the scheduled date specified in the above Key Action Dates and Times section. At the sole discretion of the Department, questions may be paraphrased by the Department for clarity.

Written responses to all questions will be collectively compiled and posted through an official addendum, according to the Key Action Dates and Times section, to the Cal eProcure website. It is the responsibility of the Proposer to check Cal eProcure for the list of questions and associated answers.

C. Work Plan and Work Schedule Requirements

The Proposer shall develop a work plan, identifying each task (1-9), necessary subtask, and/or specific milestone(s). The hours required for each task are identified in each Task in the Description of Services: Work to be Performed in this RFP. The work plan will need to include a schedule of performance and a list of specific learning objectives per task based on the Work to be Performed and the required topics of each course described in this RFP. Provide the approach and methods that will be used to address each task detailed in proposal. Proposing firms are strongly encouraged to be as specific as possible when describing their proposed approach and methods.

The work plan must prove the Proposer’s ability to fulfill all requirements outlined in the Technical Requirements Evaluation Criteria (Section F: Evaluation Process, Table 1). The work plan shall not include any recommendation of any type of 360-degree evaluation.

D. Cost Detail Format and Requirements

The cost of the proposed work shall be broken down according to the outline in the Description of Services. The prices, set forth, shall remain in force for the stated term of the Agreement and shall include the cost of insurance, State sales tax, travel costs, and every other item of expenses, direct or indirect, to the total proposal. The total costs of all tasks and milestones for the base proposal cannot exceed $500,000.00. Use the Cost Sheet and Response Attachment to prepare the cost proposal.

E. Submission of Proposal

1. Proposals should provide straightforward and concise descriptions of the Proposer’s ability to satisfy the requirements of this RFP. The proposal must be complete and accurate. Omissions, inaccuracies, or misstatements will be sufficient cause for rejection of a proposal.

2. The proposal package should be prepared in the least expensive method.

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3. All proposals must be submitted to the Department by dates and times shown in the Key Action Dates and Times section. Proposals received after this date and time will not be considered.

4. Proposers are encouraged to submit their proposals electronically. Submit all proposal documents to ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov. The Department will confirm receipt of the proposal submission. If the Proposer does not receive a confirmation email from the Department, the proposal may be deemed non-responsive.

5. Proposers that mail or hand deliver their submission must adhere to the following:

a. One (1) original copy of the proposal must be submitted.

b. All documents contained in the original proposal package must have original signatures and must be signed by a person who is authorized to bind the proposing firm.

c. The proposal envelopes must be plainly marked with the RFP number and title, your firm name and address, and must be marked with "DO NOT OPEN", as shown in the following example:

Sacramento, CA 95814 ATTN: Stefanie Bican

2025-015 Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

DO NOT OPEN

d. Proposals not submitted under sealed cover and marked as indicated may be rejected.

e. Mail or hand deliver proposals to the following address:

Sacramento, CA 95814

6. If the Proposer submits proprietary or personal information within their proposal, the information shall be redacted by the proposer as a separate email attachment or physical document. The redaction shall not interfere with the public’s ability to fully, completely, and accurately comprehend the proposal content and should not otherwise be edited or altered as in Government Code 6250-6270.7.

7. All proposals may include the documents identified in the Attachment Checklist. Proposals not including the proper "required attachments" shall be deemed non-responsive. A non-responsive proposal is one that does not meet the basic proposal requirements.

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?division=7.&chapter=3.5.&lawCode=GOV&title=1.&article=1.

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8. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all the services described herein. Any deviation from the work specifications will not be considered and will cause a proposal to be rejected.

9. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. The Department may reject any or all proposals and may waive an immaterial deviation in a proposal. The Department's waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the Proposer from full compliance with all requirements if awarded the agreement.

10. Costs incurred for developing proposals and in anticipation of award of the agreement are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to the State of California.

11. An individual who is authorized to bind the Proposer contractually shall sign the Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet. The signature should indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be rejected.

12. A Proposer may modify a proposal after its submission by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline as set forth in the Key Action Dates and Times section. Proposer modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

13. A Proposer may withdraw its proposal by emailing a withdrawal request to

ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov. A Proposer may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

14. The Department may modify the RFP prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum to all parties who received a proposal package.

15. The Department reserves the right to reject all proposals. The Department is not required to award a contract.

16. Before submitting a response to this solicitation, Proposers should review, correct all errors, and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements.

17. Where applicable, Proposer should carefully examine work sites and specifications. No additions or increases to the agreement amount will be made due to a lack of careful examination of work sites and specifications.

18. More than one (1) proposal from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation or association under the same or different names, will not be considered.

19. The State does not accept alternate contract language from a prospective Contractor. A proposal with such language will be considered a counter proposal and will be rejected. The State’s General Terms and Conditions (GTC 02/2025) are not negotiable.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language

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20. No oral understanding or agreement shall be binding on either party.

F. Evaluation Process

1. At the time of proposal opening, each proposal will be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this RFP.

2. The Department will evaluate each proposal to determine its responsiveness to the published requirements. Pass/Fail determination is made for responsiveness of all RFP requirements.

Items listed in Attachment 1 must be completed and signed (as required) to be considered responsive.

The Department will evaluate Proposers based on criteria according to the table below.

Administrative Criteria Evaluation Pass Fail Mandatory Minimum Qualifications Commercially Useful Function (CUF) (if applicable)

Tax Delinquent Status Verification Completed Cost Sheet and Response Work Schedule Proposal/Proposer Certification Bid/Bidder Declaration Corporation in Good Standing with the State

List of Subcontractors (if applicable) References All Other Required Attachments

3. Proposals that contain false or misleading statements claimed by the Proposer may be rejected.

4. Award if made, will be to the highest scored responsible proposal after eligible preferences and/or incentives have been applied.

5. In the event of a tie, award will be determined by a coin toss. The coin toss will be witnessed and documented by two (2) or more Department representatives and the affected Proposers will be invited to attend.

In the event of a precise tie between the low responsible proposal of a certified small business and the low responsible proposal of a certified disabled veteran owned business that is also a small business, the contract will be awarded to the certified disabled veteran owned small business.

6. The proposals that pass the Administrative Criteria Evaluation section, will move onto the Technical Requirements Evaluation. The Technical Evaluation will be performed by an

Leadership Development Training, Coaching & Mentoring

Rev. 1/2026 evaluation panel. If deemed necessary, independent academic, technical, or policy experts may be called upon to answer any specific questions regarding any proposal responses. These individuals will not be participants in the scoring process.

There will be no individual sheets, no written scores, and no written notes. There will be one (1) final consensus score sheet for each proposal.

The Technical Requirements Evaluation Criteria Table contains the scoring criteria that will be used by reviewers evaluating proposals submitted in response to this RFP. The evaluation team shall determine a consensus score for each item, based on the team’s verbal discussion of each Proposer’s responses. To determine the consensus score, evaluators will meet either in person or by teleconference to discuss in detail the strengths, weaknesses, and rating of each proposal to determine scores. The evaluation team will carefully review and discuss the completeness of Proposer’s response, as well as clarity of documentation presented in the proposal submitted.

The Department will use the following scoring system to assign points. In the following chart is a list of all considerations that the evaluation team may consider when assigning individual points to a proposal.

Strength Score Description

High:

No/Minimal

Errors

Exceptional Outstanding Excellent

Medium:

Some Errors

Very Good Good Satisfactory Fair

Low: Many Errors

Marginal Poor Very Poor Applicant did not address the category or panel cannot evaluate based on materials provided

In assigning points for individual rating factors, raters may consider issues including, but not limited to, the extent to which a proposal response:

a. Is lacking information, lacking depth or breadth, or lacking significant factor and/or details, and/or

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b. Is fully developed comprehensive and has few if any weaknesses, defects or deficiencies, and/or

c. Demonstrates that the Proposer understands the Department’s needs, the services sought, and/or the Contractor’s responsibilities and/or

d. Illustrates the Proposer’s capability to perform all services and meet all Description of Services requirements, and/or

e. If implemented, will contribute to the achievement of the Department’s goals and objectives and/or

f. Demonstrates the Proposer’s capacity, capability, and/or commitment to exceed regular service needs (i.e. enhanced features, approaches, or methods, creative or innovative business solutions).

Proposals may achieve a maximum of forty (40) cost points, which is weighted at 31% of the total points available. This criterion allows staff to evaluate and compare the budgets of each proposal relative to those of its competitors. Each Proposer must complete the Cost Sheet and Response. Any proposals submitted that are over the expected Department expenditure/budgeted amount of $500,000.00 will be disqualified.

Example: To help illustrate this process, refer to table below, for an example of the cost score calculation process. Cost figures in the example below explain the calculations and have no other significance.

Cost Evaluation and…