39198_Oct_6_26_solicitation_doc.pdf

This is a Request for Proposals (RFP) solicitation issued by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) for the operation of Early Intervention Programs under the Connecticut Birth to Three System. The RFP seeks proposals from qualified organizations with extensive experience in IDEA Part C and/or Part B programs and expertise working with families of young children. The Birth to Three System serves approximately 15,000 eligible children annually who have developmental delays, disabilities, or health-related needs. The solicitation encompasses two provider categories: Comprehensive Early Intervention Providers that deliver all individualized services to referred children, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing Support Providers that assist comprehensive programs. Applicants may apply for multiple town clusters, with a minimum of two providers to be selected per cluster. An optional pre-bid conference is scheduled for October 13, 2026. The vendor question-and-answer period runs from September 28 through October 16, 2026. Proposals are due November 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. The contract term runs for five years from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2032, with anticipated proposer selections occurring January 4, 2027.

The total funding available is up to $199,568,130 derived from federal and state sources, with payment terms to be vendor-specified. This is an open competition with no set-asides or incumbent restrictions. Comprehensive providers must maintain a minimum staffing team consisting of a Teacher, Speech-Language Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, and Physical Therapist. All applicants must demonstrate sound fiscal health by submitting three years of audited financial statements in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), register with the System of Award Management prior to contract execution, and be legally registered with Connecticut's Secretary of State or hold nonprofit exemption with IRS determination letters. Proposals must be submitted electronically as PDF and spreadsheet files totaling less than 25 MB, with the main proposal body limited to 15 pages excluding required attachments. Evaluation will employ weighted scoring across six categories: Compliance/Operations & Services (35%), Staffing/Training Plan (25%), Financial Profile (10%), Outreach/Partnerships (10%), Dispute Resolution (10%), and Towns (10%). Inquiries should be directed to Kaitlyn Czap at OEC.RFP.B23@ct.gov or 860-500-4436.