6-Underwriting Evaluation and Score Sheet (1).pdf

This is an Underwriting Evaluation and Scoring Rubric for a bond issuance underwriting services procurement conducted by the State of Utah Division of Purchasing on behalf of Utah Charter Academies (UCA). UCA is seeking a Managing Underwriter to provide investment banking services for a complex, multi-project bond issuance, with the primary objective of securing the lowest possible cost of capital through expert pricing negotiation, aggressive marketing, and high-level credit presentation to S&P Global Ratings. The procurement method is Value Based Selection under Utah Procurement Code 63G-6a Part 15, and submissions of qualifications are being accepted via Bonfire or email to dsharette@apamail.org. The vendor with the highest ranking will be selected to negotiate a contract at compensation determined to be fair and reasonable, with provisions to proceed to the next highest ranked vendor if agreement cannot be reached with the top-ranked firm.

The evaluation criteria are weighted as follows: National Charter School Expertise accounts for 40% of the evaluation and assesses demonstrated success in a "National Charter School Group" capacity with ability to reach institutional investors outside of Utah; UCA Institutional Continuity represents 35% and prioritizes firms with deep understanding of UCA's Master Indenture, past 2015/2018 bond performance, and current Zions Custodial Agreement; Technical Proficiency comprises 15% and evaluates expertise in balancing duties to both issuer and investors to ensure "fair and reasonable" pricing; and Proposed Fee Structure accounts for 10% and assesses the firm's underwriting spread in relation to services provided. Pricing should not be included in qualifications submissions, as compensation will be negotiated separately following selection based on fair and reasonable standards.