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 seeks advertising, digital marketing, partnerships, and public relations services for the Florida Prepaid College Board, ABLE United, and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. The solicitation is divided into two primary components: (1) Advertising and Creative Services, Digital Marketing, and Social Media Services, and (2) Public Relations, Partnerships, and Events. Full responses are due January 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM (ET), with a written request for clarification deadline of December 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM (ET). The contract term is initially three years (2026–2029), with the potential for three additional one-year extensions. Up to two firms will be selected, with up to five respondents advancing to the shortlist. Retainer-based fees are proposed for core activities, supplemented by additional passthrough or hourly rates for project-based work.

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 either $15 million in annual billings for advertising services or $5 million for public relations services. Work examples from January 1, 2022 onward are required. Evaluation will utilize a 1,000-point scoring system encompassing organizational and strategic experience (400 points), work examples (400 points), and pricing schedule (200 points). The combined marketing budgets for all three entities range from $22.5 million to $28.5 million annually. 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. The solicitation contains no explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. A designated Contract Manager must attend quarterly Board meetings, participate in monthly conference calls, and meet with executive leadership. Monthly invoicing applies, with potential withholding of up to 50 percent of invoices for nonperformance.