Appendix C - Request for Clarification.docx

Appendix C is a Request for Clarification form issued by the Florida Prepaid College Board for Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) 25-02 soliciting comprehensive advertising, digital marketing, partnerships, and public relations services. The procurement covers the Florida Prepaid College Board, ABLE United, and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and is divided into two primary components: Advertising and Creative Services with Digital Marketing and Social Media Services, and Public Relations, Partnerships, and Events. The form provides respondents with a structured template to submit written questions or comments regarding specific sections and pages of the ITN. The written request for clarification deadline is December 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM (ET), with full responses due January 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM (ET). The Board intends to award contracts to up to two firms, with an initial three-year contract term from 2026 through 2029, and the potential for three additional one-year extensions. Current Board contracts expire June 30, 2026.

Respondents must demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in the financial services industry, maintain an active Florida business presence, and meet specific financial thresholds of $15 million in annual billings for advertising services or $5 million for public relations services. The evaluation utilizes a 1,000-point system assessing organizational and strategic experience (400 points), work examples from January 1, 2022 onward (400 points), and pricing schedule (200 points), with up to five respondents selected for the shortlist. Combined marketing budgets for the programs range from $22.5 million to $28.5 million annually, structured as retainer-based fees for core activities and additional passthrough or hourly rates for project-based work. Contractors must provide a designated Contract Manager attending quarterly Board meetings and monthly conference calls. Broadcast media and print production charges require competitive bids from at least two companies unless otherwise approved, and subcontractors require prior written Board approval. The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises.