REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

PUBLIC OPINION AND POLICY RESEARCH SERVICES

RFP AIDEA26-068

ISSUED MAY 18, 2026

The purpose of this solicitation is to obtain proposals for the services of qualified and experienced research firms to assist the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) with public opinion and policy research services. The consultant will support AIDEA by designing and conducting research to assess public awareness, perceptions, and attitudes related to AIDEA’s mission, programs, and project-related public policy issues. Services may include research design, survey implementation, stakeholder analysis, data collection, reporting, and presentation of findings to support strategic communications, policy development, and stakeholder engagement efforts.

ISSUED BY: PRIMARY CONTACT:

KELLY NOBLE

AIDEA CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER

PROCUREMENT@AIDEA.ORG

(907) 771-3909

OFFERORS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO RETURN THIS FORM.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: IF YOU RECEIVED THIS SOLICITATION FROM THE STATE OF ALASKA’S

“ONLINE PUBLIC NOTICE” WEB SITE, YOU MUST REGISTER WITH THE CHIEF PROCUREMENT

OFFICER LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT TO RECEIVE NOTIFICATION OF SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS.

FAILURE TO CONTACT THE CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER MAY RESULT IN THE REJECTION OF

YOUR OFFER.

mailto:procurement@aidea.org

RFP AIDEA26-068

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION & INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.01 PURPOSE OF THE RFP

SEC. 1.02 BUDGET

SEC. 1.03 DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.04 PRIOR EXPERIENCE

SEC. 1.05 REQUIRED REVIEW

SEC. 1.06 QUESTIONS PRIOR TO DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.07 RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.08 ASSISTANCE TO OFFERORS WITH A DISABILITY

SEC. 1.09 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.10 AMENDMENTS TO THE RFP

SEC. 1.11 RFP SCHEDULE

SEC. 1.12 PRE-PROPOSAL

SEC. 1.13 ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.14 NEWS RELEASES

SECTION 2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SEC. 2.01 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SECTION 3. SCOPE OF WORK & CONTRACT INFORMATION

SEC. 3.01 OBJECTIVES

SEC. 3.02 SCOPE OF WORK

SEC. 3.03 DELIVERABLES

SEC. 3.04 CONTRACT TERM AND WORK SCHEDULE

SEC. 3.05 CONTRACT TYPE

SEC. 3.06 PROPOSED PAYMENT PROCEDURES

SEC. 3.07 PROMPT PAYMENT FOR STATE PURCHASES

SEC. 3.08 CONTRACT PAYMENT

SEC. 3.09 CONTRACT PRICE ADJUSTMENTS

SEC. 3.10 LOCATION OF WORK

SEC. 3.11 THIRD-PARTY SERVICE PROVIDERS

SEC. 3.12 SUBCONTRACTORS

SEC. 3.13 JOINT VENTURES

SEC. 3.14 RIGHT TO INSPECT PLACE OF BUSINESS

SEC. 3.15 F.O.B. POINT

SEC. 3.16 CONTRACT PERSONNEL

SEC. 3.17 INSPECTION & MODIFICATION - REIMBURSEMENT FOR UNACCEPTABLE DELIVERABLES

SEC. 3.18 CONTRACT CHANGES - UNANTICIPATED AMENDMENTS

SEC. 3.19 NONDISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

SEC. 3.20 INDEMNIFICATION

SEC. 3.21 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 3.22 FINANCIAL SOVENCY AND ABILITY TO CONDUCT BUSINESS

SEC. 3.23 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT

SECTION 4. PROPOSAL FORMAT AND CONTENT

SEC. 4.01 RFP SUBMITTAL FORMS

SEC. 4.02 PROPOSAL CONTENTS

SEC. 4.03 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

SEC. 4.04 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT

SEC. 4.05 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT

SEC. 4.06 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT

SEC. 4.07 COST PROPOSAL

SEC. 4.08 BID BOND – PERFORMANCE BOND

SEC. 4.09 EVALUATION CRITERIA

SECTION 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND CONTRACTOR SELECTION

SEC. 5.01 SUMMARY OF EVALUATION PROCESS

SEC. 5.02 EVALUATION CRITERIA

SEC. 5.03 SCORING METHOD AND CALCULATION

SEC. 5.04 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS (20%)

SEC. 5.05 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT (5%)

SEC. 5.06 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT (20%)

SEC. 5.07 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT (5%)

SEC. 5.08 CONTRACT COST (COST PROPOSAL) (40%)

SEC. 5.09 ALASKA OFFEROR PREFERENCE (10%)

SECTION 6. GENERAL PROCESS AND LEGAL INFORMATION

SEC. 6.01 INFORMAL DEBRIEFING

SEC. 6.02 ALASKA BUSINESS LICENSE AND OTHER REQUIRED LICENSES

SEC. 6.03 SITE INSPECTION

SEC. 6.04 CLARIFICATION OF OFFERS

SEC. 6.05 DISCUSSIONS WITH OFFERORS

SEC. 6.06 EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 6.07 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

SEC. 6.08 FAILURE TO NEGOTIATE

SEC. 6.09 OFFEROR NOTIFICATION OF SELECTION

SEC. 6.10 PROTEST

SEC. 6.11 APPLICATION OF PREFERENCES

SEC. 6.12 ALASKA BIDDER PREFERENCE

SEC. 6.13 ALASKA VETERAN PREFERENCE

SEC. 6.14 ALASKA MILITARY SKILLS PROGRAM PREFERENCE

SEC. 6.15 STANDARD CONTRACT PROVISIONS

SEC. 6.16 QUALIFIED OFFERORS

SEC. 6.17 PROPOSAL AS PART OF THE CONTRACT

SEC. 6.18 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SEC. 6.19 HUMAN TRAFFICKING

SEC. 6.20 RIGHT OF REJECTION

SEC. 6.21 AIDEA NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARATION COSTS

SEC. 6.22 DISCLOSURE OF PROPOSAL CONTENTS

SEC. 6.23 ASSIGNMENT

SEC. 6.24 FORCE MAJEURE (IMPOSSIBILITY TO PERFORM)

SEC. 6.25 DISPUTES

SEC. 6.26 SEVERABILITY

SEC. 6.27 SUPPLEMENTAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SEC. 6.28 SOLICITATION ADVERTISING

SEC. 6.29 FEDERALLY IMPOSED TARIFFS

SECTION 7. ATTACHMENTS

SEC. 6.30 ATTACHMENTS

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION & INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.01 PURPOSE OF THE RFP

The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) is soliciting proposals from qualified and experienced research firms to provide public opinion and policy research services in support of AIDEA’s strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and policy-related initiatives.

Services may include research design, survey development and implementation, stakeholder interviews, focus groups, data collection and analysis, reporting, and related consulting services.

SEC. 1.02 BUDGET

The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) estimates a budget of between $50,000.00 and $65,000.00 for the period July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Proposals priced above $65,000.00 may be considered non-responsive.

The contract may be renewed for up to two (2) additional one-year periods, subject to appropriations and agency need. AIDEA reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to increase the contract amount up to a combined Not-to-Exceed (NTE) total of $195,000.00, subject to the availability of funds and agency need.

Proposals must include a detailed cost breakdown by task and deliverable. Any assumptions affecting cost shall be clearly identified.

AIDEA makes no guarantee regarding the amount of work to be performed under this contract. Work will be authorized through Notices to Proceed (NTPs) issued by AIDEA.

SEC. 1.03 DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

Proposals must be received no later than 2 PM prevailing Alaska Time on June 09, 2026. Late proposals or amendments will be disqualified and not opened or accepted for evaluation.

SEC. 1.04 PRIOR EXPERIENCE

Offerors interested in responding to this request must provide evidence in their proposal demonstrating the following minimum qualifications and experience requirements to be considered responsive:

• A minimum of five (5) years of experience conducting public opinion, public policy, or stakeholder research services, preferably in Alaska or comparable environments.

• Experience working on issues related to public policy, economic development, infrastructure, energy, natural resource development, or other complex public interest issues.

• Familiarity with Alaska’s geographic, demographic, cultural, and regional diversity, including experience conducting research in rural and remote communities where applicable.

• Demonstrated expertise of assigned personnel, including relevant qualifications, experience, and professional backgrounds of key staff proposed for this project.

• Experience designing and implementing quantitative and/or qualitative research methodologies, including surveys, focus groups, interviews, and data analysis.

References:

Respondents must provide at least three (3) professional references attesting to:

• The accuracy and reliability of the firm’s research.

• The firm’s ability to work on sensitive or complex public policy issues.

• Prior work conducted in Alaska or comparable environments.

• References should include organizational affiliation, project description, and contact information.

An Offeror’s failure to meet these minimum prior experience requirements may cause their proposal to be considered non-responsive and their proposal may be rejected.

SEC. 1.05 REQUIRED REVIEW

Offerors should carefully review this solicitation for defects and questionable or objectionable material.

Comments concerning defects and questionable or objectionable material should be made in writing and received by the Chief Procurement Officer at least ten days before the deadline for receipt of proposals.

This will allow time for the issuance of any necessary amendments. It will also help prevent the opening of a defective proposal and exposure of Offeror's proposals upon which award could not be made.

SEC. 1.06 QUESTIONS PRIOR TO DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF

PROPOSALS

All questions must be in writing and directed to the Chief Procurement Officer. The interested party must confirm telephone conversations in writing.

Two types of questions generally arise. One may be answered by directing the questioner to a specific section of the RFP. These questions may be answered over the telephone. Other questions may be more complex and may require a written amendment to the RFP. The Chief Procurement Officer will make that decision.

Chief Procurement Officer: KELLY NOBLE – PHONE 907-771-3909 - procurement@aidea.org.

SEC. 1.07 RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

If submitting a hard copy proposal, Offerors must submit one hard copy of their proposal to the Chief Procurement Officer in a sealed package. The cost proposal included with the package must be sealed separately from the rest of the proposal and must be clearly identified. The sealed proposal package(s) must be addressed as follows:

Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority Attention: Kelly Noble

Request for Proposal Number: AIDEA26-068 Title: Public Opinion and Policy Research Services

If using U.S. mail, please use the following address:

813 West Northern Lights Blvd.

Anchorage, AK 99503

If using a delivery service, please use the following address:

813 West Northern Lights Blvd.

Anchorage, AK 99503

If submitting a proposal via email, the technical proposal and cost proposal must be saved as separate PDF documents and emailed to procurement@aidea.org as separate, clearly labeled attachments, such as “Vendor A – Technical Proposal.pdf” and “Vendor A – Cost Proposal.pdf” (Vendor A is the name of the Offeror). The email must contain the RFP number in the subject line.

The maximum size of a single email (including all text and attachments) that can be received by the state is 20mb (megabytes). If the email containing the proposal exceeds this size, the proposal must be sent in multiple emails that are each less than 20 megabytes and each email must comply with the requirements described above.

Please note that email transmission is not instantaneous. Similar to sending a hard copy proposal, if you are emailing your proposal, the state recommends sending it with enough time to ensure the email is delivered by the deadline for receipt of proposals.

It is the Offeror’s responsibility to contact the issuing agency at 907-771-3909 to confirm that the proposal has been received. The state is not responsible for unreadable, corrupt, or missing attachments.

SEC. 1.08 ASSISTANCE TO OFFERORS WITH A DISABILITY

Offerors with a disability may receive accommodation regarding the means of communicating this RFP or participating in the procurement process. For more information, contact the Chief Procurement Officer no later than ten days prior to the deadline for receipt of proposals.

SEC. 1.09 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS

Amendments to or withdrawals of proposals will only be allowed if acceptable requests are received prior to the deadline that is set for receipt of proposals. No amendments or withdrawals will be accepted after the deadline unless they are in response to the state's request in accordance with 2 AAC 12.290.

SEC. 1.10 AMENDMENTS TO THE RFP

If an amendment is issued before the deadline for receipt of proposals, the amendment will be posted on https://www.aideaaeaprocurement.org/ and the State of Alaska Online Public Notice (OPN) website. The link to the posting of the amendment will be provided to all who were notified of the RFP, the registered on the Plan Holders List and to those who have registered with the Chief Procurement Officer.

After receipt of proposals, if there is a need for any substantial clarification or material change in the RFP, an amendment will be issued. The amendment will incorporate the clarification or change, and a new date and time established for new or amended proposals. Evaluations may be adjusted as a result of receiving new or amended proposals.

SEC. 1.11 RFP SCHEDULE

RFP schedule set out herein represents the state’s best estimate of the schedule that will be followed. If a component of this schedule, such as the deadline for receipt of proposals, is delayed, the rest of the schedule may be shifted accordingly. All times are Alaska Standard Time.

https://www.aideaaeaprocurement.org/

ACTIVITY TIME DATE

Issue Date / RFP Released May 18/2026 Pre-Proposal Conference N/A Deadline for Receipt of Questions May 27/2026 Deadline for Receipt of Proposals / Proposal Due Date 2:00PM June 09/2026 Procurement Evaluations Complete June 12/2026 Notice of Intent to Award June 15/2026 Contract Issued June 29/2026

This RFP does not, by itself, obligate the state. The state's obligation will commence when the contract is approved by Executive Director of AIDEA. Upon written notice to the contractor, the state may set a different starting date for the contract. The state will not be responsible for any work done by the contractor, even work done in good faith, if it occurs prior to the contract start date set by the state.

SEC. 1.12 PRE-PROPOSAL

No applicable.

SEC. 1.13 ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

Offerors may only submit one Proposal for evaluation. In accordance with 2 AAC 12.830 alternate proposals (proposals that offer something different than what is asked for) will be considered non-responsive.

SEC. 1.14 NEWS RELEASES

News releases related to this RFP will not be made without prior approval of the Project Manager.

SECTION 2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SEC. 2.01 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) is a public corporation of the State of Alaska established to promote economic growth and diversification throughout the state. AIDEA works to identify and advance economic development opportunities by partnering with public and private entities to finance infrastructure, energy, transportation, and resource development projects that provide long-term economic benefits to Alaska communities.

AIDEA has a strong interest in supporting responsible development of Alaska’s natural resources while promoting economic opportunities, job creation, and long-term community stability throughout the state.

Since its inception, AIDEA has worked with Alaska Native Corporations, tribal organizations, indigenous village communities, local governments, and private industry partners to support economic development initiatives across Alaska, particularly in rural and remote communities. These efforts contribute to employment opportunities, local infrastructure, and essential community services, including schools, health clinics, housing, emergency response services, water and wastewater systems, and utility infrastructure.

Because many AIDEA-supported initiatives involve complex public policy, economic development, infrastructure, energy, and resource-related issues, AIDEA requires accurate and reliable public opinion research to support strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and policy-related decision-making efforts. As a result, AIDEA intends to retain a firm with demonstrated experience conducting public opinion research in Alaska and familiarity with Alaska’s unique geographic, demographic, cultural, and regional considerations.

SECTION 3. SCOPE OF WORK & CONTRACT INFORMATION

SEC. 3.01 OBJECTIVES

The selected contractor will support AIDEA’s strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and policy-related initiatives by conducting public opinion and policy research related to AIDEA programs, projects, and public policy issues. The objectives of this contract are to:

• Collect reliable and statistically valid public opinion data relevant to AIDEA initiatives and activities.

• Assess public awareness, understanding, perceptions, concerns, and information gaps among Alaskans and key stakeholder groups.

• Provide clear, actionable analysis to support AIDEA leadership, communications staff, and policymakers.

• Support informed decision-making through accurate, transparent, and methodologically sound research practices.

• Ensure research methodologies and outreach efforts appropriately consider Alaska’s geographic, demographic, cultural, and regional diversity, including rural and remote communities where applicable.

SEC. 3.02 SCOPE OF WORK

Successful firms awarded under this RFP will provide public opinion and policy research services in support of AIDEA initiatives involving public policy, economic development, infrastructure, energy, transportation, and resource-related issues.

Specific tasks and project requirements will be identified through Notices to Proceed (NTPs) issued by AIDEA. All task orders shall include project management and coordination with AIDEA staff. Contractors shall submit monthly invoices and progress reports identifying activities performed, deliverables completed, project status, budget status, key findings or milestones achieved, and planned activities for the upcoming reporting period.

At a minimum, the contractor shall provide the following services:

a) Research Design and Methodology

• Develop research plans and methodologies addressing AIDEA project objectives.

• Recommend and implement appropriate quantitative and qualitative research approaches, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and mixed-method research approaches where appropriate.

• Develop sampling strategies, target populations, geographic coverage plans, and validation methodologies appropriate for Alaska audiences.

• Ensure research methodologies account for Alaska’s unique geographic, demographic, cultural, and regional considerations, including rural and remote communities where applicable.

b) Data Collection

• Conduct surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other approved research activities in a timely and professional manner.

• Implement data collection methods that ensure accuracy, representativeness, and data integrity.

• Conduct all research activities in accordance with applicable ethical and professional standards for public opinion research.

c) Analysis and Reporting

• Analyze research findings to identify trends, stakeholder perceptions, concerns, and policy implications relevant to AIDEA initiatives and projects.

• Prepare written summaries, reports, and supporting analysis suitable for internal and external stakeholders.

• Present findings in a clear, concise, and non-technical format appropriate for decision-makers and communications purposes.

• Develop charts, tables, graphics, data visualizations, and presentation materials to effectively communicate findings.

d) Consultation and Briefings

• Present research findings to AIDEA staff and leadership, as requested.

• Provide consultation regarding research methodology, interpretation of findings, stakeholder trends, and related public policy considerations.

• Coordinate with AIDEA staff regarding project schedules, deliverables, and research objectives.

SEC. 3.03 DELIVERABLES

Deliverables may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Research plans and methodology summaries for AIDEA review and approval.

• Survey instruments, interview guides, focus group materials, and related research tools.

• Monthly progress reports identifying completed activities, project status, budget status, key findings or milestones, and planned upcoming activities.

• Final datasets and supporting documentation.

• Written reports summarizing methodology, findings, analysis, limitations, and conclusions.

• Executive summaries suitable for policy, communications, or stakeholder briefings.

• Charts, tables, graphics, data visualizations, and presentation materials.

• Oral briefings or presentations of findings, if requested.

Report monthly on each project with a synopsis of deliverables completed, hours worked by topic, and expenses incurred for each project. Any trip reports shall be submitted to the project manager within 30 days of travel.

This document does not and is not intended to include or address every item that will be included or addressed in the contract for professional services

SEC. 3.04 CONTRACT TERM AND WORK SCHEDULE

The term of the contract is anticipated to begin approximately July 1, 2026, and continue through June 30, 2027. The contract may be renewed for up to two (2) additional one-year periods, subject to available funding, contractor performance, and AIDEA approval, for a total possible contract term of three

(3) years.

Specific tasks, schedules, and project requirements will be authorized through Notices to Proceed (NTPs) issued by AIDEA. AIDEA makes no guarantee regarding the minimum or maximum amount of work to be performed under this contract.

Assignments will be issued at the discretion of AIDEA. If agreement cannot be reached regarding the scope, schedule, or cost of a specific assignment or NTP, AIDEA reserves the right to terminate negotiations for that assignment. Any changes to the scope, schedule, or budget of an authorized assignment must be approved through a written NTP amendment issued by AIDEA.

All task orders shall include a project management component. Contractors shall submit monthly invoices and progress reports identifying activities performed, deliverables completed, project status, budget status, key findings or milestones achieved, and planned activities for the upcoming reporting period.

This RFP does not, by itself, obligate AIDEA. AIDEA’s obligation will commence only upon execution of a contract approved by the Executive Director of AIDEA or the Executive Director’s designee. AIDEA will not be responsible for work performed prior to the official contract start date established by AIDEA.

The contractor shall act only upon direction from the AIDEA Project Manager or the Project Manager’s designee. AIDEA shall not be obligated for work performed based on direction received from individuals not authorized by AIDEA.

Unless otherwise provided in this RFP, any contract extension beyond exercised renewal options shall be considered a month-to-month extension under the same terms and conditions. AIDEA may cancel such extension upon at least thirty (30) days written notice to the contractor. Any month-to-month extension must be executed through a written contract amendment by the Contracting Officer.

SEC. 3.05 CONTRACT TYPE

This contract is a Firm Fixed Price Hourly Rate.

SEC. 3.06 PROPOSED PAYMENT PROCEDURES

Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) will make payments based on a negotiated payment schedule. Each billing must consist of an invoice, a revised schedule, updated status report noting any issues, and electronic copy of completed Report. No payment will be made until the progress report and invoice has been approved by the Project Manager.

SEC. 3.07 PROMPT PAYMENT FOR STATE PURCHASES

Not Applicable.

SEC. 3.08 CONTRACT PAYMENT

No payment will be made until the contract is approved by the Executive Director of Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA). Under no conditions will the Authority be liable for the payment of any interest charges associated with the cost of the contract.

The Authority is not responsible for and will not pay local, state, or federal taxes. All costs associated with the contract must be stated in U.S. currency.

SEC. 3.09 CONTRACT PRICE ADJUSTMENTS

Consumer Price Index (CPI): Contract prices will remain firm through June 30, 2027.

The Contractor or State may request price adjustments, no sooner than 12 months from the Contract execution date, and no more than once per contract year. Contractors must submit a request to the State at least thirty (30) days prior to the end of the current term. All Requests must be in writing and must be received 30 days prior to the Contract renewal date.

a. If the Contractor or State fail to request a CPI price adjustment 30 days prior to the Contract renewal date, the adjustment will be effective 30 days after the State or Contractor receives their written request.

b. Price adjustments will be made in accordance with the percentage change in the U.S.

Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor and Statistics, Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) for All Urban Consumers, All Items, Urban Alaska.

c. The price adjustment rate will be determined by comparing the percentage difference between the CPI in effect for the base year reported HALF1 (January through June 2026) (depends on the timing, may be HALF2 for July-December); and each HALF1 (or HALF2) thereafter. The percentage difference between those two CPI issues will be the price adjustment rate. No retroactive contract price adjustments will be allowed. All price adjustments must be approved by the Chief Procurement Officer prior to the implementation of the adjusted pricing. Approval shall be in the form of a Contract Amendment issued by the Chief Procurement Officer.

d. Approval for all price increases is dependent upon full compliance with the terms of the Contract including reporting requirements.

SEC. 3.10 LOCATION OF WORK

The location(s) the work is to be performed, completed and managed for this project will be in Alaska.

The Authority will not pay for travel Expenses.

Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) WILL NOT provide workspace for the contractor. The contractor must provide its own workspace.

Failure to comply with these requirements may cause the Authority to reject the proposal as will be considered non-responsive, or cancel the contract.

SEC. 3.11 THIRD-PARTY SERVICE PROVIDERS

Not Applicable.

SEC. 3.12 SUBCONTRACTORS

Subcontractors may be utilized as needed when specialized expertise, technical capabilities, or regional knowledge would support the successful performance of the work. The Contractor shall identify all proposed subcontractors and describe their anticipated roles and contributions to the project.

For each proposed subcontractor, the Contractor must provide:

• A brief description of the subcontractor’s relevant experience and previous work;

• A one-page résumé or qualifications summary for key personnel; and

• Three (3) professional references.

Any replacement or addition of subcontractors after contract award must receive prior written approval from the AIDEA Project Manager and comply with the terms of the final negotiated Professional Services Agreement (PSA).

To ensure proposed subcontractors are appropriate for the scope of work and project requirements, Offerors are encouraged to coordinate with the AIDEA Project Manager regarding subcontractor participation prior to finalizing a proposal or Notice to Proceed (NTP)..

SEC. 3.13 JOINT VENTURES

Joint ventures will not be allowed.

SEC. 3.14 RIGHT TO INSPECT PLACE OF BUSINESS

At reasonable times, the state may inspect those areas of the contractor's place of business that are related to the performance of a contract. If the state makes such an inspection, the contractor must provide reasonable assistance.

SEC. 3.15 F.O.B. POINT

All goods purchased through this contract will be F.O.B. final destination. Unless specifically stated otherwise, all prices offered must include the delivery costs to any location within the State of Alaska.

SEC. 3.16 CONTRACT PERSONNEL

Any change of the project team members or subcontractors named in the proposal must be approved, in advance and in writing, by the Project Manager or Chief Procurement Officer. Changes that are not approved by the state may be grounds for the state to terminate the contract.

SEC. 3.17 INSPECTION & MODIFICATION - REIMBURSEMENT FOR

UNACCEPTABLE DELIVERABLES

The contractor is responsible for the completion of all work set out in the contract. All work is subject to inspection, evaluation, and approval by the Project Manager. The state may employ all reasonable means to ensure that the work is progressing and being performed in compliance with the contract. The Project Manager or Chief Procurement Officer may instruct the contractor to make corrections or modifications if needed in order to accomplish the contract’s intent. The contractor will not unreasonably withhold such changes.

Substantial failure of the contractor to perform the contract may cause the state to terminate the contract.

In this event, the state may require the contractor to reimburse monies paid (based on the identified portion of unacceptable work received) and may seek associated damages.

SEC. 3.18 CONTRACT CHANGES - UNANTICIPATED AMENDMENTS

During the course of this contract, the contractor may be required to perform additional work. That work will be within the general scope of the initial contract. When additional work is required, the Project Manager will provide the contractor a written description of the additional work and request the contractor to submit a firm time schedule for accomplishing the additional work and a firm price for the additional work. Cost and pricing data must be provided to justify the cost of such amendments per AS 36.30.400.

The contractor will not commence additional work until the Project Manager has secured any required Authority approvals necessary for the amendment and issued a written contract amendment, approved by the Executive Director of Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority.

SEC. 3.19 NONDISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

Contractor agrees that all confidential information shall be used only for purposes of providing the deliverables and performing the services specified herein and shall not disseminate or allow dissemination of confidential information except as provided for in this section. The contractor shall hold as confidential and will use reasonable care (including both facility physical security and electronic security) to prevent unauthorized access by, storage, disclosure, publication, dissemination to and/or use by third parties of, the confidential information. “Reasonable care” means compliance by the contractor with all applicable federal and state law, including the Social Security Act and HIPAA. The contractor must promptly notify the state in writing if it becomes aware of any storage, disclosure, loss, unauthorized access to or use of the confidential information.

Confidential information, as used herein, means any data, files, software, information or materials (whether prepared by the state or its agents or advisors) in oral, electronic, tangible or intangible form and however stored, compiled or memorialized that is classified confidential as defined by State of Alaska classification and categorization guidelines provided by the state to the contractor or a contractor agent or otherwise made available to the contractor or a contractor agent in connection with this contract, or acquired, obtained or learned by the contractor or a contractor agent in the performance of this contract.

Examples of confidential information include, but are not limited to: technology infrastructure, architecture, financial data, trade secrets, equipment specifications, user lists, passwords, research data, and technology data (infrastructure, architecture, operating systems, security tools, IP addresses, etc).

Additional information that the contractor shall hold as confidential during the performance of services under this contract include:

If confidential information is requested to be disclosed by the contractor pursuant to a request received by a third party and such disclosure of the confidential information is required under applicable state or federal law, regulation, governmental or regulatory authority, the contractor may disclose the confidential information after providing the state with written notice of the requested disclosure ( to the extent such notice to the state is permitted by applicable law) and giving the state opportunity to review the request.

If the contractor receives no objection from the state, it may release the confidential information within 30 days. Notice of the requested disclosure of confidential information by the contractor must be provided to the state within a reasonable time after the contractor’s receipt of notice of the requested disclosure and, upon request of the state, shall seek to obtain legal protection from the release of the confidential information.

The following information shall not be considered confidential information: information previously known to be public information when received from the other party; information freely available to the general public; information which now is or hereafter becomes publicly known by other than a breach of confidentiality hereof; or information which is disclosed by a party pursuant to subpoena or other legal process and which as a result becomes lawfully obtainable by the general public.

SEC. 3.20 INDEMNIFICATION

The contractor shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the contracting agency from and against any claim of, or liability for error, omission or negligent act of the contractor under this agreement. The contractor shall not be required to indemnify the contracting agency for a claim of, or liability for, the independent negligence of the contracting agency. If there is a claim of, or liability for, the joint negligent error or omission of the contractor and the independent negligence of the contracting agency, the indemnification and hold harmless obligation shall be apportioned on a comparative fault basis.

“Contractor” and “contracting agency”, as used within this and the following article, include the employees, agents and other contractors who are directly responsible, respectively, to each. The term “independent negligence” is negligence other than in the contracting agency’s selection, administration, monitoring, or controlling of the contractor and in approving or accepting the contractor’s work.

SEC. 3.21 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Without limiting contractor's indemnification, it is agreed that contractor shall purchase at its own expense and maintain in force at all times during the performance of services under this agreement the following policies of insurance. Where specific limits are shown, it is understood that they shall be the minimum acceptable limits. If the contractor's policy contains higher limits, the state shall be entitled to coverage to the extent of such higher limits.

Certificates of Insurance must be furnished to the procurement officer prior to beginning work and must provide for a notice of cancellation, non-renewal, or material change of conditions in accordance with policy provisions. Failure to furnish satisfactory evidence of insurance or lapse of the policy is a material breach of this contract and shall be grounds for termination of the contractor's services. All insurance policies shall comply with and be issued by insurers licensed to transact the business of insurance under

AS 21.

Workers' Compensation Insurance: The contractor shall provide and maintain, for all employees engaged in work under this contract, coverage as required by AS 23.30.045, and where applicable, any other statutory obligations including but not limited to Federal U.S.L. & H. and Jones Act requirements. The policy must waive subrogation against the State.

Commercial General Liability Insurance: covering all business premises and operations used by the Contractor in the performance of services under this agreement with minimum coverage limits of $300,000 combined single limit per claim.

Commercial Automobile Liability Insurance: covering all vehicles used by the contractor in the performance of services under this agreement with minimum coverage limits of $300,000 combined single limit per claim.

Professional Liability Insurance: covering all errors, omissions, or negligent acts in the performance of professional services under this agreement. Limits required per the following schedule:

Contract Amount Minimum Required Limits

Under $100,000 $300,000 per Claim/Annual Aggregate $100,000-$499,000 $500,000 per Claim/Annual Aggregate $500,000-$999,999 $1,000,000 per Claim/Annual Aggregate $1,000,000 or over Refer to Risk Management

SEC. 3.22 FINANCIAL SOVENCY AND ABILITY TO CONDUCT BUSINESS

Both before and after the granting of any contract or agreement under this Request for Proposals the Contactor at all times must be financially solvent and have the ability to conduct business. Any agreement, contract or proposal with the contractor will terminate without notice to the contractor in the event that the contractor:

(a) was or will be insolvent, as that term is used and defined in Section 101(32) of the United States Bankruptcy Code and Section 2 of the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act.

(b) has unreasonably small capital or is engaged or about to engage in a business or a transaction for which any remaining assets of the contractor or affiliate are unreasonably small.

c) by executing, delivering or performing its obligations under any agreements or documents to which it is a party or by taking any action with respect thereto, intends to, nor believes that it will, incur debts beyond its ability to pay them as they mature;

(d) contemplates filing a petition in bankruptcy or for an arrangement or reorganization or similar proceeding under any law any jurisdiction, or, to the best knowledge of the contractor, is the subject of any actual, pending or threatened bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceedings under any law of any jurisdiction.

(e) incurs any suspension and debarment or is declared ineligible or voluntarily excluded as such terms are defined under any of the debarment regulations of any United States federal government agency or department.

SEC. 3.23 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT

If the Project Manager or Chief Procurement Officer determines that the contractor has refused to perform the work or has failed to perform the work with such diligence as to ensure its timely and accurate completion, the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority may, by providing written notice to the contractor, terminate the contractor's right to proceed with part or all of the remaining work.

This clause does not restrict the state's termination rights under the contract provisions of Appendix A, attached in SECTION 7. ATTACHMENTS.

SECTION 4. PROPOSAL FORMAT AND CONTENT

SEC. 4.01 RFP SUBMITTAL FORMS

This RFP contains Forms that must be completed and submitted by the Offeror as part of its proposal.

Electronic copies of the forms are provided with this RFP. Offerors shall not recreate, alter, or modify the format of the forms unless expressly permitted by this RFP.

Unless otherwise specified, the completed Submittal Forms shall constitute the Offeror’s entire proposal.

Marketing materials are not requested and should not be included.

Proposals must include the complete legal name and address of the Offeror’s firm, as well as the name, mailing address, email address, and telephone number of the individual authorized to serve as the primary contact regarding the proposal. Proposals must also confirm the Offeror’s agreement to comply with all requirements and provisions of this RFP and, if applicable, identify whether the Offeror qualifies for an Alaska bidder preference.

Proposals must be signed by an individual authorized to legally bind the company. Failure to provide the required information may result in the proposal being considered non-responsive.

Criteria Responses shall not exceed ten (10) pages. The page limitation does not include: Attachment 1 – Cost Proposal Form, résumés, or professional references.

Proposal responses shall be submitted on 8-1/2” x 11” pages. A limited number of 11” x 17” pages may be used if folded to 8-1/2” x 11” size. Oversized pages will count as multiple pages based on 93.5 square inches per page, unless otherwise noted.

Unless otherwise specified in this RFP, the Submittal Forms shall be the Offeror’s entire proposal. Do not include any marketing information in the proposal.

Any proposal that does not follow these requirements may be considered non-responsive.

SEC. 4.02 PROPOSAL CONTENTS

All proposals must be signed by an individual authorized to bind the Offeror to the provisions of the RFP.

Proposals must remain open and valid for at least 90-days from the date set as the deadline for receipt of proposals.

By signature on the proposal, Offerors certify that they comply with the following:

A. the laws of the State of Alaska;

B. the applicable portion of the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964;

C. the Equal Employment Opportunity Act and the regulations issued thereunder by the federal government;

D. the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the regulations issued thereunder by the federal government;

E. all terms and conditions set out in this RFP;

F. a condition that the proposal submitted was independently arrived at, without collusion, under penalty of perjury; and

G. that the offers will remain open and valid for at least 90 days.

If any offeror fails to comply with [a] through [g] of this paragraph, the state reserves the right to disregard the proposal, terminate the contract, or consider the contractor in default.

The Submittal Form also requests the following information:

a) The complete name and address of offeror’s firm along with the offeror’s Tax ID.

b) Information on the person the state should contact regarding the proposal.

c) Names of critical team members/personnel.

d) Addenda acknowledgement.

e) Conflict of interest statement.

f) Federal requirements.

g) Alaska preference qualifications.

The Chief Procurement Officer reserves the right to consider a proposal non-responsive and reject it or cancel the award if any interest disclosed from any source could either give the appearance of a conflict or cause speculation as to the objectivity of the contract to be performed by the Offeror. The Executive Director's determination regarding any questions of conflict of interest shall be final.

SEC. 4.03 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Offerors must provide information demonstrating their qualifications, experience, and organizational capacity to perform the work required under this RFP. Proposals must clearly demonstrate:

• A proven track record of conducting public opinion or public policy research in Alaska or comparable environments.

• Experience working on issues related to public policy, economic development, infrastructure, energy, natural resource development, or other complex public interest issues.

• Familiarity with Alaska’s geographic, demographic, cultural, and regional diversity, including experience working in rural and remote communities where applicable.

• The professional expertise and qualifications of personnel assigned to the project.

Offerors must provide an organizational chart identifying the personnel assigned to perform work under this contract, including lines of authority and the individual responsible for project management, coordination, and deliverables.

Offerors must also provide a narrative description of the proposed project team and a personnel roster identifying each individual proposed to work on the contract, including the following information for each person:

• Title and role on the project;

• Résumé or brief professional biography;

• Location where work will be performed; and

• Estimated hours and associated cost for each individual.

In addition, Offerors must provide at least three (3) professional references for similar projects completed by the Offeror, including the organization name, project description, contact person, and telephone number.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Offeror shall not disclose their costs in this section.

SEC. 4.04 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT

Offerors must provide comprehensive narrative statements that illustrate their understanding of the requirements of the project and the project schedule.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Offeror shall not disclose their costs in this section.

SEC. 4.05 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT

Offerors must provide comprehensive narrative statements that set out the methodology they intend to employ and illustrate how the methodology will serve to accomplish the work and meet the state’s project schedule.

Respondents must include a concise summary of their proposed methodology, including:

• Research approach and rationale.

• Sampling design and anticipated sample size(s).

• Data collection methods.

• Analytical techniques.

• Measures taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, and validity.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Offeror shall not disclose their costs in this section.

SEC. 4.06 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT

Offerors must provide a management plan describing their approach to managing and performing the work required under this RFP. The management plan should demonstrate the Offeror’s understanding of the project scope, coordination requirements, communication approach, and ability to successfully complete the work within the proposed schedule and budget.

Offerors shall provide a proposed project timeline identifying key milestones, major tasks, anticipated deliverable dates, and project completion schedules.

The Offeror must designate a primary point of contact responsible for overall project management, coordination with AIDEA, scheduling, deliverables, and contract administration. The proposal should also identify key personnel assigned to the project and describe their respective roles and responsibilities.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Offeror shall not disclose their costs in this section.

SEC. 4.07 COST PROPOSAL

Offerors must complete and submit this Cost Proposal Form, see attachment #1.

The hourly rates proposed by the successful Offeror must must include all direct and indirect costs associated with the performance of the contract, including, but not limited to, total number of hours at various hourly rates, direct expenses, payroll, supplies, overhead assigned to each person working on the project, percentage of each person's time devoted to the project, and profit. The costs identified on the cost proposal are the total amount of costs to be paid by the state. No additional charges shall be allowed.

SEC. 4.08 BID BOND – PERFORMANCE BOND

Bid Bond

Offerors must obtain a bid bond and submit it with the proposal. The amount of the bid bond for this contract is based in the proposal. If an Offeror is selected to receive the contract and fails to negotiate or fails to deliver a fully executed contract after negotiation, the bid bond will be immediately forfeited to the state. The time limit for negotiation or delivery of a contract is 14-days from the date the Offeror receives notice from the Chief Procurement Officer. Proposals submitted without a bid bond will be rejected.

Performance Bond

Offerors must obtain a letter of commitment for a performance bond from a bonding company and submit it with the proposal. The amount of the performance bond must be equal to the entire dollar value of an Offeror's offer, for the full term of the contract. If the contractor fails to satisfactorily perform the contract, the bonding company that provided the performance bond will be required to obtain timely performance of the contract. The actual performance bond must be obtained from the bonding company and provided to the state within 30-days of the date of award of the contract. An Offeror's failure to provide the performance bond, within the required time, will cause the state to reject the proposal or cancel the contract.

SEC. 4.09 EVALUATION CRITERIA

All proposals will be reviewed to determine if they are responsive. Proposals determined to be responsive will be evaluated using the criterion that is set out in SECTION 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND

CONTRACTOR SELECTION.

SECTION 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND CONTRACTOR

SELECTION

THE TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS USED TO SCORE THIS PROPOSAL IS 1000

SEC. 5.01 SUMMARY OF EVALUATION PROCESS

The state will use the following steps to evaluate and prioritize proposals:

1) Proposals will be assessed for overall responsiveness. Proposals deemed non-responsive will be eliminated from further consideration.

2) A proposal evaluation committee (PEC), made up of at least three state employees or public officials, will evaluate the Technical portion of all responsive proposals.

3) Each responsive Technical Proposal will be sent to the PEC. No cost information will be shared or provided to the PEC.

4) The PEC will independently evaluate and score the proposals based on the degree to which they meet the stated evaluation criteria.

5) After independent scoring, the PEC will have a meeting, chaired by the Chief Procurement Officer, where the PEC may have a group discussion prior to finalizing their scores.

6) The evaluators will submit their final individual scores to the Chief Procurement Officer, who will then compile the scores and calculate awarded points as set out in Section 5.03.

7) The Chief Procurement Officer will calculate scores for cost proposals as set out in Section 5.08 and add those scores to the awarded points along with factoring in any Alaska preferences.

8) The Chief Procurement Officer may ask for best and final offers from Offerors susceptible for award and revise the cost scores accordingly.

9) The state will then conduct any necessary negotiations with the highest scoring Offeror and award a contract if the negotiations are successful.

SEC. 5.02 EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated based on their overall value to state, considering both cost and non-cost factors as described below. Note: An evaluation may not be based on discrimination due to the race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, pregnancy, parenthood, disability, or political affiliation of the Offeror.

Overall Criteria Weight Responsiveness Pass/Fail

Qualifications Criteria Weight Experience and Qualifications 125 Understanding of the Project 125 Methodology Used for the Project 125 Management Plan for the Project 125

Total 500

Cost Criteria Weight Cost Proposal 400 Total 400

Preference Criteria Weight Alaska Offeror Preference (if applicable) 100 Total 100

TOTAL EVALUATION POINTS AVAILABLE: 1000

SEC. 5.03…