Appendix C - Request for Clarification.docx

This is a Request for Clarification form for Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) 25-02 issued by the Florida Prepaid College Board, located in Tallahassee, Florida. The ITN solicits comprehensive advertising, digital marketing, partnerships, and public relations services for the Florida Prepaid College Board, ABLE United, and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. The procurement is structured in two primary components: (1) Advertising and Creative Services, Digital Marketing, and Social Media Services, and (2) Public Relations, Partnerships, and Events. Respondents must submit written requests for clarification by December 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM (ET), with full responses due January 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM (ET). The resulting contract will commence on July 1, 2026, with an initial three-year term through June 30, 2029, and includes potential for three additional one-year extensions. Up to two firms may be selected for award, with up to five respondents advancing to the shortlist.

Respondents must demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in the financial services industry, maintain an active Florida business presence, and meet financial thresholds of $15 million in annual billings for advertising services or $5 million for public relations services. The combined marketing budgets for all programs range from $22.5 million to $28.5 million annually, with compensation structured as retainer-based fees for core services and additional passthrough or hourly rates for project-based work. Evaluation will be conducted on a 1,000-point scale assessing organizational and strategic experience (400 points), work examples (400 points), and pricing (200 points). Work examples must be from January 1, 2022, onward. The solicitation does not specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must provide a designated Contract Manager attending quarterly Board meetings, participating in monthly calls, and meeting with executive leadership. Monthly invoicing is required with Board approval for expenses, and up to 50 percent of invoices may be withheld for nonperformance. Subcontractors require prior written Board approval, and broadcast media and print production charges must be supported by competitive bids from at least two companies unless otherwise approved.