C2026154_BusinessFinanceModernization_RFP~3.pdf

RFP S-12300-00016372 – Business Finance Modernization Consultant

Biz OR Version Dated 06/24/2025

Request for Proposals:

Business Finance Modernization Consultant

Date of Issue: April 3, 2026 Bid Opening Date: May 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time

OBDD RFP no. C2026154 OregonBuys no. S-12300-00016372

Single Point of Contact (“SPC”):

Daxton Perkins, Procurement and Contract Specialist Oregon Business Development Department 775 Summer Street NE, Suite 310 Salem, OR 97301-1280 Telephone: (971) 345-7115

Email: daxton.perkins@biz.oregon.gov

The State of Oregon promotes equal opportunity for all individuals without regard to age, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion or creed, sex or gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

• Attachment A – Proposer Information and Certification Sheet

• Attachment B – Disclosure Exemption Affidavit

• Attachment C – Reference Check Form

• Attachment D – COBID Certification/ Outreach Plan

• Attachment E – Responsibility Inquiry

• Attachment F – Key Persons and Resumes

• Attachment G– Work Samples

• Attachment H – Price Proposal

• Attachment I – Sample Contract

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 SCHEDULE

1.3 OREGONBUYS

1.4 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.3 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS

3.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.3 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 4: SOLICITATION PROCESS

4.1 PUBLIC NOTICE

4.2 QUESTIONS / REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATIONS

4.3 SOLICITATION PROTESTS

4.4 PROPOSAL DELIVERY

4.5 PROPOSAL MODIFICATION OR WITHDRAWAL

4.6 PROPOSAL DUE

4.7 PROPOSAL REJECTION

4.8 OPENING OF PROPOSALS

4.9 EVALUATION PROCESS

4.10 POINT AND SCORE CALCULATIONS

4.11 RANKING OF PROPOSERS

4.12 NEXT STEP DETERMINATION

SECTION 5: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

5.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION PROCESS

5.2 INTENT TO AWARD PROTEST

5.3 APPARENT SUCCESSFUL PROPOSER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

5.4 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

SECTION 6: ADDITIONAL

INFORMATION

6.1 COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

6.2 CERTIFIED FIRM PARTICIPATION

6.3 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

6.4 OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

6.5 CANCELLATION OF RFP; REJECTION OF PROPOSAL; NO DAMAGES

6.6 COST OF SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL

6.7 STATEWIDE E-WASTE/RECOVERY PROCEDURE

6.8 RECYCLABLE PRODUCTS

6.9 PRINTING, BINDING, AND STATIONERY WORK

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The State of Oregon, acting by and through the Oregon Business Development Department (“Business Oregon” or “Agency”), is issuing this Request for Proposal (“RFP”) for consultants who have experience with business lending programs that promote public economic development goals.

Many of the Agency’s lending programs were implemented many years ago and the landscape for lending programs has changed. Business Oregon seeks a consultant who will evaluate the effectiveness of the Agency’s current lending programs and make recommendations to modernize them to meet current business needs and support economic development.

The project will consist of specific work products and deliverables as well as ongoing, interactive and iterative advisory work with and at the direction of Agency officials on multiple topics. Additional details on the Scope of the goods or services or both are included in the Scope of Work/Specifications Section 2.4.

Agency’s proposed budget for this RFP is $60,000.

Business Oregon anticipates the award of one Contract from this solicitation. The contract is expected to have an end date of December 31, 2026. Business Oregon reserves the right to amend or extend the resulting contract for additional time up to a maximum of two months and inclusion of reasonably related services, dependent on need and approved budget, without conducting further solicitation activities (or as permitted by applicable statute or rule).

1.2 SCHEDULE

The table below represents a tentative schedule of events. All times are listed in Pacific Time. All dates listed are subject to change.

Event Date Time

Questions / Requests for Clarification Due 22 April 2026, at 3:00 p.m. PST

Responses to Questions / Requests for Clarification Issued (approx.)

29 April 2026, at 3:00 p.m. PST

Bid Opening Date (Proposal Due) 07 May 2026, at 3:00 p.m. PST

Presentations, Demonstrations, or Interviews (optional at Agency’s discretion) Week of May 18 (approximate)

Issuance of Notice of Intent to Award June 3, 2026

1.3 OREGONBUYS

This RFP, including all addenda’s, attachments, and exhibits, is posted as a Bid Solicitation in the OregonBuys web-based eProcurement System. The OregonBuys website is available at:

http://oregonbuys.gov. OregonBuys is the only official repository for RFP documents; RFP documents will not be separately mailed. Agency assumes no responsibility for content obtained from other sources.

http://oregonbuys.gov/

1.3.1 OREGONBUYS ASSISTANCE

Parties needing assistance with OregonBuys may contact the OregonBuys Helpdesk by telephone at

1.855.800.5046 or by email at support.oregonbuys@oregon.gov.

1.3.2 OREGONBUYS REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Interested Proposers must be registered in OregonBuys to do business with the State of Oregon.

Registration is free. Current and correct registration information is the sole responsibility of the registered party. Agency accepts no responsibility for missing or incorrect information.

To create a vendor account, click the blue “Supplier Registration” button in the top right corner of the OregonBuys website. For registration assistance, see vendor registration guidance:

https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/SupplierRegistrationGuide.pdf. Vendors are responsible for ensuring that their vendor registration and information is current and correct in OregonBuys. Agency shall not be responsible for defective registration or incorrect vendor information.

1.4 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT

The single point of contact (“SPC”) for this RFP is identified as the Purchaser in OregonBuys and on the Cover Page of this RFP. Proposer shall direct all communications related to any provision of the RFP only to the SPC, whether about the technical requirements of the RFP, contractual requirements, the RFP process, or any other provision.

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

Agency is issuing this RFP pursuant to its authority under ORS 285A.075.

Agency is using the Intermediate Procurement method, pursuant to ORS 279B.070 and OAR 137- 047-0270. Agency may use a combination of the methods for Competitive Sealed Proposals, including optional procedures: a) Competitive Range; b) Discussions and Revised Proposals; c) Revised Rounds of Negotiations; d) Negotiations; e) Best and Final Offers; and f) Multistep Sealed Proposals.

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.2.1 General Definitions

For the purposes of this RFP, capitalized words not specifically defined in this document are defined in ORS 279A.010, ORS 279B.005, and OAR 137-046-0110.

2.3 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

2.3.1 Agency Overview and Background

Agency is the State of Oregon’s economic development agency. Our mission is to invest in Oregon’s businesses, communities, and people to promote a globally competitive, diverse, and inclusive economy. To achieve this mission, the agency administers more than 80 core programs.

mailto:support.oregonbuys@oregon.gov https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/SupplierRegistrationGuide.pdf

To learn more about our Agency, please visit our webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/biz

2.3.2 Project Overview and Background

The State of Oregon employs a variety of programs and resources to achieve business, economic and community development. One method to achieve this goal has been the use of financing programs to provide capital to businesses. As the economic development agency of the State, Business Oregon is seeking to understand which business financing programs are working well, what financing gaps currently exist, what could be done differently regarding existing financing programs, and what potential new programs might be implemented to round out the Agency’s suite of business lending programs. Business Oregon is also seeking to understand what other states are doing that could help Business Oregon accomplish its economic development goals related to lending programs effectively and efficiently. To that end, the Agency seeks Proposals that will result in the deliverables as defined in Section 2.4 Scope of Work/Specifications.

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

Business Oregon seeks to ensure that its lending programs meet the needs of businesses today and operate sustainably to ensure program longevity. The Agency is requesting proposals from consultants for professional services including analysis and evaluation of the adequacy of the Agency’s portfolio of business financing programs as well as an evaluation of the efficiency and effectiveness of each individual financing program.

Proposer will, at a minimum, complete the following tasks (unless the task is canceled by Business Oregon in writing, in its sole discretion):

Task 1: Evaluate the Agency’s existing direct and indirect business finance lending programs.

Sub-task 1:

• Evaluate performance of each of the Agency’s current lending programs by reviewing the historic cadence of business loan originations, delinquency rates, engagement/participation from stakeholders such as banks, CDFIs, and economic development districts, and other relevant data.

Sub-task 2:

• Organize and lead sessions with relevant Agency staff to determine the effectiveness and ease of working with the Agency on each of its Business Finance Programs. Determine relevance of each program, including what works, what could be improved, any gaps in the financing capital stack, and effectiveness of partnerships with lenders and other stakeholders. Solicit input for potential program changes including policy, rule and statutory changes.

Sub-task 3:

• Conduct research on business financing programs focused on economic development in other states and similar entities.

Sub-task 4:

• Organize and facilitate listening sessions with select external stakeholders to determine the effectiveness and ease of working with the Agency on each of its Business Finance https://www.oregon.gov/biz

Programs. Determine the relevance of each program, including what works, what could be improved, any gaps in the commercial lending capital stack, effectiveness of partnerships with lenders and other stakeholders, and inquire as to why they participate in our direct or indirect programs (or choose not to). Solicit input for potential program changes including policy, rule and statutory changes. Specifically:

o Organize and facilitate in-person sessions in Portland, Eugene, Bend, and any other area deemed appropriate;

o Organize and facilitate remote sessions with other areas of the state as appropriate;

and o Organize and facilitate program-specific in person or remote sessions as appropriate.

Task 1 Deliverables:

Prepare a report for Business Oregon:

• Summarizing the findings from Sub-tasks 1-4 by program, including specifics on what is working well, what is not working well, what other states are doing that may work well for Oregon, the appetite for change from the various stakeholders, and other relevant information.

• Making recommendations based on feedback received including updates to existing programs and potential new policies/programs and methods for the Agency’s business financing programs to achieve their strategic goals (advancing business retention, expansion and attraction throughout Oregon).

Task 1 Due Date: September 4, 2026.

Task 2: Assistance with Oregon Legislature 2027 Session Readiness

Goal: Assist Agency staff to prepare business finance programs for the 2027 legislative session. Based on the research performed and resulting findings, provide presentation materials, case studies, ongoing advice and support on suggested finance-related statutory changes.

Sub-task 1: Provide ongoing support in the following, as needed and appropriate:

a. Preparing legislative concepts and policy option packages;

b. Preparing presentation materials; and

c. Making one presentation to the legislature.

Task 2 Deliverables: Submission of drafts of proposed legislative concepts, policy option packages, presentation materials, and formal legislative presentation for Business Oregon’s review and approval;

delivery of final documents incorporating feedback received from Business Oregon’s review.

Task 2 Due Date: December 31, 2026.

The Successful Proposer shall meet the highest standards prevalent in the industry or business most closely involved in providing the goods and/or services that the Agency is purchasing under this RFP.

Proposers are invited to review the following items at the Agency’s website (https://www.oregon.gov/biz/Pages/default.aspx):

• 2024-2027 Strategic Plan https://www.oregon.gov/biz/Publications/Strategic%20Plan%20July%202024.pdf

• 2024 DEI Plan OBDD_DEI_Plan.pdf

• Business Finance Programs Overview on website

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS

3.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for evaluation, Proposer must be a registered vendor in OregonBuys. Proposer must be licensed to do business in their state and be prepared to comply with requirements for doing business in Oregon, including registering with the Oregon Secretary of State.

Proposer must possess the skills and knowledge of business lending programs and program portfolios.

Proposer must understand economic development lending programs and business needs, pressures of both economic development lenders and businesses seeking gap capital, and must possess a thorough understanding of commercial loan programs.

Proposer must provide examples of work experience from, at minimum, three (3) projects within the last five (5) years, that demonstrate Proposer’s previous experience providing services similar or relevant to this Proposal’s requirements as outlined in Section 2.4 Scope of Work/Specifications.

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.2.1 Proposal Submissions

To be considered for evaluation, Proposal must contain each of the following elements (further detailed in Proposal Requirements Section 3.3):

• Proposal Narrative and Project Implementation Plan (Required)

• Project Timeline and Project Budget (Required)

• Attachment A - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Required)

• Attachment B - Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Optional)

• Attachment C - Reference Check Form (Required)

• Attachment D - COBID Certification / Outreach Plan (Required)

• Attachment E - Responsibility Inquiry (Required)

• Attachment F - Key Persons and Resumes (Required)

• Attachment G - Work Samples (Required)

• Attachment H – Price Proposal (Required)

3.2.2 Proposal Page Limits

Proposal is limited to 10 pages. Individual sections’ page limits, if any, are described in 3.3. Agency will consider the pages up to that allowable number and discard all pages in excess of the allowable number. One (1) page is defined as: one side of a single 8-1/2" x 11" page, with 12-point minimum https://www.oregon.gov/biz/Pages/default.aspx https://www.oregon.gov/biz/Publications/Strategic%20Plan%20July%202024.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/biz/Publications/OBDD_DEI_Plan.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/biz/programs/homeareas/fundbusiness/Pages/business_finance.aspx font size for the substantive text. Proposers may use their discretion for the font size of other materials (e.g., graphics, charts). Any page or partial page with substantive text, graphics, charts, resumes, etc., will be counted as one (1) page. Any pages exceeding this limit will not be provided to the evaluation committee or considered in the evaluation. The following items do not count toward the page limit:

• Cover Page

• Table of Contents

• Attachment A - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet

• Attachment B - Disclosure Exemption Affidavit

• Attachment C - Reference Check forms

• Attachment D - COBID Certification / Outreach Plan

• Attachment E - Responsibility Inquiry

• Attachment F - Key Persons and Resumes

• Attachment G - Work Samples

• Attachment H – Price Proposal

3.2.3 Proposal Format and Quantity

Proposal should follow the format and reference the sections listed in the Proposal Requirements Section 3.3. Responses to each section and subsection should be labeled to indicate the item being addressed.

Proposer shall submit its Proposal and all other submittal requirements electronically through OregonBuys. Proposer shall follow the procedures outlined in Section 4.4 for electronic submission.

Proposer shall submit a copy of its Proposal and all other submittal requirements. The Agency will accept Proposals in electronic files compatible with Microsoft Office applications.

The signed Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment A), as required by Section 3.2.1, bearing the Proposer’s authorized representative’s Signature must be submitted as a .PDF file.

If Proposer believes any of its Proposal is exempt from disclosure under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478), Proposer shall complete and submit the Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B) and Proposer also shall submit a fully redacted version of its Proposal, clearly identified as the redacted version.

Agency requests that you do not password protect your original submissions or provide an additional copy of your submissions that are not password protected. Agency sometimes needs to separate the documents within a submission group for the purposes of evaluation. Please contact the SPC if you have any questions or concerns.

Failure to demonstrate compliance with these submission requirements may result in a finding of non-Responsiveness.

3.2.4 Authorized Representative

Failure of the authorized representative to sign the Proposal may subject the Proposal to rejection by Agency.

3.3 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Proposal must address each of the items listed in this section and all other requirements set forth in this RFP. Proposer shall describe the Goods to be provided or the Services to be performed or both. A

Proposal that merely offers to provide the goods or services as stated in this RFP may be considered non-Responsive to this RFP and will not be considered further.

Proposal should not include extensive artwork, unusual printing, or other materials not essential to the utility and clarity of the Proposal. Do not include marketing or advertising material in the Proposal, unless requested. Proposal should be straightforward and address the requests of the RFP. Proposal containing unsolicited marketing or advertising material may receive a lower evaluation score if specific information is difficult to locate.

3.3.1 Project Approach, Timeline and Implementation Plan (Required, Scored,)

Describe Proposer’s plan to perform the tasks identified in Section 2.4 Scope of Work/Specifications. Specify data to be gathered, criteria to be applied, techniques to be employed in the selection of states with comparable programs or other compelling similarities, and proposed timeline of deliverables and key milestones.

3.3.2 Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment A, Required, Not Scored)

Proposer shall complete and submit Attachment A. The signed Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment A), bearing the Proposer’s authorized representative’s Signature must be submitted as a .PDF file.

Failure to demonstrate compliance with Oregon Tax Laws and to sign the Proposer information and Certification Sheet may result in a finding of non-Responsibility.

3.3.3 Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B, Optional, Not Scored)

All Proposals are public record and are subject to public inspection after Agency issues the Notice of the Intent to Award. Attachment B is required only if Proposer believes any of its Proposal is exempt from disclosure under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478).

If Proposer believes any of the Proposal is exempt from public disclosure:

• Proposer shall complete and submit the Disclosure Exemption Affidavit, Attachment B.

• Proposer shall submit a fully redacted version of its Proposal, clearly identified as the redacted version. This is in addition to submitting a non-redacted Proposal.

• Proposer shall mark as “Confidential” in OregonBuys all attachments Proposer believes are exempt from public disclosure. Proposer is cautioned that cost information generally is not considered a trade secret under Oregon Public Records Law and identifying the Proposal, in whole, as exempt from disclosure is not acceptable. Agency advises each Proposer to consult with its own legal counsel regarding disclosure issues.

If Proposer fails to identify the portions of the Proposal that Proposer claims are exempt from disclosure, Proposer has waived any future claim of non-disclosure of that information

3.3.4 Reference Check Form (Attachment C, Required, Not Scored)

Proposer shall provide 3 references from current or former client firms for similar projects performed for any clients within the last 6 years. References must be able to verify the quality of previous, related work.

Agency may check to determine if references provided support Proposer’s ability to comply with the requirements of this RFP. Agency may use references to obtain additional information, or verify any information needed. Agency may contact any reference (submitted or not) to verify Proposer’s qualifications. References will not be scored but may be used as part of a “responsibility” check to verify the Proposer’s ability to perform.

Proposer shall send the Reference Check Form (Attachment C) to its references. Reference forms must be completed by the reference, returned to the Proposer and submitted with the Proposal.

3.3.5 COBID Certification / Outreach Plan (Attachment D, Required, Not Scored)

Proposer shall complete and submit the Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan (Attachment D). See Section 6.2 for further details.

3.3.6 Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment E, Required, Not Scored)

Proposer shall complete and submit the Proposer Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment E). See Section

4.9.1.2 for further details.

3.3.7 Key Persons and Resumes (Attachment F, Required, Scored)

Provide a Key Person list of the specific individuals who would be assigned key positions for this Project. Include, by individual, a description of their duties and responsibilities for this Project. Attach a 2-page maximum resume for each person identified as a Key Person. The skills and experience of the staff assigned to the Project must be comparable to those submitted in the Proposal. Agency reserves the right to determine comparability. If a Contract results from the Proposal, substitutions or replacement of staff identified as Key Persons must be approved in advance by Agency.

3.3.8 Work Samples (Attachment G, Required, Scored)

Proposer shall provide at least 3 work samples from projects performed within the last five years that are relevant or similar to the requested services (including a description of their size and duration). Include a copy of the work product(s) that is most similar to the requested services, and describe the services and deliverables, including but not limited to the following:

• Size and scope of the project,

• Duration of the project,

• Proposer’s role or responsibility,

• Primary activities,

• Notable results of the work, and

• Required knowledge of program rules and compliance.

Samples may be attached to proposal as a .PDF file. A web link for viewing or downloading may also be provided.

3.3.9 Price Proposal (Attachment H, Scored)

Proposer shall submit a separate attachment (2 pages maximum) detailing their Price Proposal stating the price for each deliverable and the total price for the entire project. The Price Proposal should include a breakdown of all labor, profit and expenses required to complete the Project, and should briefly describe Proposer’s plan to maximize value based on identified scope within the confines of currently identified budget of $60,000, including limitations and other alternatives worthy of consideration. Proposer may describe possible budget enhancements that the Proposer would have the Agency consider for improved quality or comprehensiveness of results from the study.

SECTION 4: SOLICITATION PROCESS

4.1 PUBLIC NOTICE

The RFP and attachments are published in OregonBuys at https://OregonBuys.gov. RFP documents will not be mailed to prospective Proposers.

Modifications, if any, to this RFP will be published as Bid Amendment(s) in OregonBuys.

Prospective Proposer is solely responsible for checking OregonBuys to determine whether or not any Bid Amendments have been issued. Bid Amendments are incorporated into the RFP by this reference.

4.2 QUESTIONS / REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATIONS

All inquiries, whether relating to the RFP process, administration, deadline, or method of award, or to the intent or technical aspects of the RFP must be submitted no later than the specified date in Section

1.2 and emailed to the SPC identified on the Cover Page of this RFP.

Substantive questions and answers will be issued as official addenda to this RFP. Changes or modifications to this RFP shall be binding on the Agency only if in the form of written addenda issued by Agency.

Agency will provide addenda by posting them to OregonBuys. Anyone who has received a copy of this RFP from a source other than Agency is responsible for checking with the SPC or online postings.

Agency is not responsible for sending addenda to any potential Proposers.

4.3 SOLICITATION PROTESTS

As an Intermediate Procurement, no solicitation protest opportunity is required or allowed.

4.4 PROPOSAL DELIVERY

Proposer is solely responsible for ensuring its Proposal is submitted through OregonBuys in accordance with the RFP requirements before the Bid Opening Date. Agency is not responsible for any transmission errors or delays, or for any mis-delivery for any reason. Additional information may be found in the OregonBuys Terms of Use. Proposals submitted by any means not authorized will not be accepted.

4.4.1 Electronic Submission via OregonBuys

Proposer shall submit its Proposal electronically through OregonBuys, http://oregonbuys.gov.

Proposer should follow the procedures outlined in detailed instructions on how to submit a Proposal (Bid) which can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Pages/supplierresources.aspx.

4.5 PROPOSAL MODIFICATION OR WITHDRAWAL

https://oregonbuys.gov/ http://oregonbuys.gov/ https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Pages/supplierresources.aspx

If a Proposer wishes to make modifications to a submitted Proposal, or to withdraw its Proposal, it must do so through OregonBuys prior to the RFP Bid Opening Date.

4.6 PROPOSAL DUE

A Proposal (including all required submittal items) must be received in OregonBuys on or before Bid Opening Date. All Proposal modifications or withdrawals must be received prior to Bid Opening Date.

Agency relies on the OregonBuys system clock to determine the correct time and is not responsible for any errors of any kind involved with electronic submission, delays, or difficulties experienced in the transmission of any Proposal, nor for notifying Proposers of complete or incomplete receipt of a Proposal.

A Proposal received after the Bid Opening Date is considered LATE and will NOT be accepted for evaluation.

4.7 PROPOSAL REJECTION

Agency may reject a Proposal for any of the following reasons:

• Proposer fails to substantially comply with all prescribed RFP procedures and requirements, including but not limited to the requirement that Proposer’s authorized representative sign the Proposal.

• Proposer has liquidated and delinquent debt owed to the State or any department or agency of the State.

• Proposer fails to meet the responsibility requirements of ORS 279B.110.

• Proposer makes any contact regarding this RFP with State representatives such as State employees or officials other than the SPC or those the SPC authorizes, or inappropriate contact with the SPC.

• Proposer attempts to influence a member of the Evaluation Committee.

• Proposal is conditioned on Agency’s acceptance of any other terms and conditions or rights to negotiate any alternative terms and conditions that are not reasonably related to those expressly authorized for negotiation in the RFP or RFP Amendments.

4.8 OPENING OF PROPOSALS

There will be no public Opening of Proposals. Proposals received will not be available for inspection until after the evaluation process has been completed and the Notice Award is issued.

4.9 EVALUATION PROCESS

4.9.1 Responsiveness and Responsibility Determination

4.9.1.1 Responsiveness Determination

A Proposal received prior to the Bid Opening Date will be reviewed to determine if it is Responsive to all RFP requirements including compliance with the Minimum Qualifications section and the Minimum Submission Requirements section. If the Proposal is unclear, the SPC may request clarification from Proposer. However, clarifications may not be used to rehabilitate a non-Responsive

Proposal. If the SPC finds the Proposal non-Responsive, the Proposal may be rejected, however, Agency may waive mistakes in accordance with OAR 137-047-0470.

4.9.1.2 Responsibility Determination

Agency will determine if an apparent successful Proposer is Responsible prior to award and execution of the Contract. Proposers shall submit a signed Responsibility Inquiry form (Attachment E) with Proposal.

At any time prior to award, Agency may reject a Proposer found to be not Responsible.

4.9.2 Evaluation Criteria

Each Proposal meeting all Responsiveness requirements will be independently evaluated by members of an Evaluation Committee. Evaluation Committee members may change, and Agency may have additional or fewer evaluators for optional rounds of competition. Evaluators will assign a score of 0% to 100% for each evaluation criterion listed below in this section up to the maximum points available in the Point and Score Calculation section.

SPC may request further clarification to assist the Evaluation Committee in gaining additional understanding of a Proposal. A response to a clarification request may only clarify or explain portions of the already submitted Proposal and may not contain new information not included in the original Proposal.

SCORE EXPLANATION

1-49% POOR TO FAIR – Proposer meets minimum requirements but does not demonstrate “Satisfactory” knowledge of the subject matter.

50-60% SATISFACTORY– Response meets all requirements in an acceptable manner.

Response demonstrates an ability to comply with guidelines, parameters, and requirements with little or no additional value provided.

61-89%

GOOD TO VERY GOOD – Response provides useful information, while showing experience and knowledge within the affected services area. Response demonstrates above average knowledge and ability with no apparent deficiencies noted.

90-100%

OUTSTANDING - Response meets all the requirements and has demonstrated in a clear and concise manner a thorough knowledge and understanding of the subject matter and opportunity. Proposer provides deep and meaningful insight into its expertise, knowledge, and understanding of the subject matter.

4.9.2.1 Proposal Narrative, Timeline, and Project Implementation Plan (50 points maximum)

To meet this criterion, Proposer must show:

• A clear approach in addressing key issues from initiation through execution. The clear approach should lay out:

o Proposer’s plan to accomplish the tasks and provide the Agency with essential intelligence;

o Specific approaches to be employed in collecting, analyzing and synthesizing facts, perceptions and insight;

o Criteria for prioritizing and selecting policy options; and o Proposed schedule of deliverables and key milestones.

• Qualitative and quantitative information to be gathered, including data sources, as well as methodologies for analysis respective to experience with business financing programs beyond Oregon, legislative strategy, and program design.

• A critique of Agency’s proposed Scope of Work/Specifications, highlighting key success factors, potential risks or recommended changes, including further tasks, as applicable.

4.9.2.2 Firm and Team Qualifications (35 points maximum)

To meet this criterion, Proposer must show how well the Key Persons and Resumes provided (2 page limit per person) demonstrate the qualifications knowledge and experience required to complete the Scope of Work/Specifications and (2) how well the Work Samples provided demonstrate the Proposer’s previous experience providing services similar to the requirements outlined in Section 2.4 Scope of Work/Specifications and relevant subject matters.

4.9.2.3 Price and Value (15 points maximum)

To meet this criterion, Proposer must:

• Clearly outline what will be accomplished within the currently identified budget ($60,000), including ongoing advisory services and deliverables.

• Outline the level of detail and comprehensiveness that will be accomplished, i.e., how budgeted dollars will be applied to maximize results.

4.9.3 PREFERENCES

4.9.3.1 Oregon Supplies and Services

Agency prefers Oregon goods and services, and for evaluation purposes, per ORS 279A.128, Agency shall subtract 10% from the price for any Proposer proposing all Goods fabricated or processed or all Services performed entirely in Oregon before calculating the price score.

4.9.3.2 Recycled Materials

In comparing Goods from two or more Proposers, if at least one Proposer offers Goods manufactured with Recycled Materials, and at least one Proposer does not, Agency will select the Proposer offering Goods manufactured from Recycled Materials if each of the conditions specified in ORS 279A.125 (2) exists following any adjustments made to the price of the Goods according to any applicable reciprocal preference.

4.9.3.3 Tiebreakers

Oregon Supplies: If Agency receives Proposals identical in price, fitness, availability, and quality and chooses to award a Contract, Agency shall award the Contract in accordance with the procedures outlined in OAR 137-046-0300.

4.10 POINT AND SCORE CALCULATIONS

Scores are the values (0% through 100%) assigned by each evaluator to each evaluation criterion.

Points are the maximum possible value for each evaluation criterion as listed in the table below.

The scores will be used as a percentage multiplier of the maximum possible points for that criterion.

MAXIMUM POINTS POSSIBLE 100

4.9.2.1 Proposal Narrative, Timeline and Project

Implementation Plan

4.9.2.2 Firm and Team Qualifications 35

4.9.2.3 Price and Value 15

EXAMPLE:

Proposal A receives a score from evaluator #1 of 30% on an evaluation criterion worth 50 points. (50 multiplied by 30% is 15). The calculated point for this evaluation criterion from evaluator #1 is 15.

Calculated points for all evaluation criteria across all evaluators are combined to receive the Total Calculated Points for the Proposal.

4.11 RANKING OF PROPOSERS

After any applicable preference has been applied, the SPC will determine the rank of each Proposal, with the highest Total Calculated Points receiving the highest rank, and successive rank order determined by the next highest Total Calculated Points.

Agency may, in Agency’s sole discretion, determine an apparent successful Proposer with no additional rounds of competition. If additional rounds are conducted, Agency will rank advancing Proposers at the conclusion of each subsequent round and may determine an apparent successful Proposer at any time during the solicitation process.

If Agency conducts two or more rounds of competition, the SPC will determine the cumulative Total Calculated Points for Proposers advancing through all rounds of competition by adding the Total Calculated Points from each completed round. The Proposer with the highest cumulative Total Calculated Points will receive the highest final ranking.

4.12 NEXT STEP DETERMINATION

At the conclusion of a round of competition, Agency may choose to conduct additional round(s) of competition if in the best interest of the State. Additional rounds of competition may consist of, but will not be limited to:

• Interviews

• Presentations/Demonstrations/Additional Submittal Items

• Discussions and submittal of revised Proposals

• Serial or simultaneous negotiations

• Best and Final Offers

4.12.1 Competitive Range Determination

If Agency, in its sole discretion, determines that one or more additional rounds of competition is necessary, it will select a Competitive Range to indicate the Proposers that will be invited to participate in a subsequent round. The Competitive Range may include all, or at Agency’s sole discretion, some (based primarily on a natural break in the distribution of scores), of the Proposers from a previous round. Agency will post a notice in OregonBuys of its Competitive Range Determination and provide details about the process and schedule for the subsequent round.

4.12.2 ADDITIONAL ROUNDS

If Agency conducts two or more rounds of competition, the rounds will be scored independently.

Once the ranking from a previous round is complete and a Competitive Range has been determined, Proposers participating in a subsequent round will compete on an equal basis – Total Calculated Points from the previous round will be set aside and will not carry over. The Proposer with the highest Total Calculated Points from the final round will receive the highest final ranking

SECTION 5: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

5.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION PROCESS

5.1.1 Award Consideration

Agency, if it awards a Contract, shall award a Contract to the highest-ranking Responsible Proposer(s) based upon the scoring methodology and process described in Section 4. Agency may award less than the full Scope defined in this RFP.

5.1.2 Intent to Award Notice

Agency’s Intent to Award Notice will be published as an Amendment(s) in OregonBuys notifying that Agency intends to award a Contract to the selected Proposer(s) subject to successful negotiation of any negotiable provisions.

5.2 INTENT TO AWARD PROTEST

As an Intermediate Procurement, no award protest opportunity is required or allowed.

5.3 APPARENT SUCCESSFUL PROPOSER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Proposer(s) who is/are selected for a Contract award under this RFP will be required to submit additional information and comply with the following:

5.3.1 Insurance

Prior to execution of the Contract, the apparent successful Proposer shall secure and demonstrate to Agency proof of insurance coverage meeting the requirements identified in the solicitation or as otherwise negotiated.

Failure to demonstrate coverage may result in Agency terminating Negotiations and commencing Negotiations with the next highest ranking Proposer. Proposer is encouraged to consult its insurance agent about the insurance requirements contained in Insurance Requirements (Exhibit B of

Attachment F) prior to Proposal submission.

5.3.2 Taxpayer Identification Number

Proposer shall provide its Taxpayer Identification Number and backup withholding status on a completed W-9 form when requested by Agency or when the backup withholding status or any other relevant information of Proposer has changed since the last submitted W-9 form, if any.

5.3.3 Business Registry

If selected for award, Proposer shall be duly authorized by the State of Oregon to transact business in the State of Oregon before executing the Contract. Visit http://sos.oregon.gov/business/pages/register.aspx for Oregon Business Registry information.

5.3.1 Responsibility Inquiry

Prior to award, Proposer shall be required to complete and submit Attachment E — Responsibility Inquiry.

5.4 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

5.4.1 Negotiation

After selection of a successful Proposer, Agency may enter into Contract negotiations with the successful Proposer. By submitting a Proposal, Proposer agrees to comply with the requirements of the RFP, including the terms and conditions of the Sample Contract (Attachment F), with the exception of those terms listed below for negotiation.

Proposer shall review the attached Sample Contract and note exceptions.

Proposer must submit those exceptions to Agency during the Questions / Requests for Clarification period set forth in Section 1.2. Unless Agency agrees to modify any of the terms and conditions, Agency intends to enter into a Contract with the successful Proposer substantially in the form set forth in Sample Contract (Attachment F).

It may be possible to negotiate some provisions of the final Contract; however, Agency is not required to make any changes and many provisions cannot be changed. Proposer is cautioned that the State of Oregon believes modifications to the standard provisions constitute increased risk and increased cost to the State. Therefore, Agency will consider the Scope of requested exceptions in the evaluation of Proposal.

Any subsequent negotiated changes are subject to prior approval of the Oregon Department of Justice.

Agency is willing to negotiate ONLY the Statement of Work and the following terms and conditions:

In the event that the parties have not reached mutually agreeable terms within 30 calendar days, Agency, at its discretion, may terminate Negotiations and commence Negotiations with the next highest-ranking Proposer.

SECTION 6: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

6.1 COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

The State of Oregon is committed to taking active steps toward increasing and promoting diversity, http://sos.oregon.gov/business/pages/register.aspx equity, and inclusion values across procurement processes for minority, women, emerging small, and veteran owned businesses by reducing barriers to compete for and be awarded State contracts. All interested businesses are encouraged to submit Proposals for this contracting opportunity.

6.2 CERTIFIED FIRM PARTICIPATION

Pursuant to Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) Chapter 200, Agency encourages the participation of small businesses, certified by the Oregon Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (“COBID”) in all contracting opportunities. This includes certified small businesses in the following categories: disadvantaged business enterprise, minority-owned business, woman-owned business, a veteran business enterprise or an emerging small business. Agency also encourages joint ventures or subcontracting with certified small business enterprises. For more information, visit:

https://www.oregon.gov/biz/programs/COBID/Pages/default.aspx

6.3 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

This RFP is governed by the laws of the State of Oregon. Venue for any administrative or judicial action relating to this RFP, evaluation and award is the Circuit Court of Marion County for the State of Oregon; provided, however, if a proceeding must be brought in a federal forum, then it must be brought and conducted solely and exclusively within the United States District Court for the District of Oregon. In no event shall this section be construed as a waiver by the State of Oregon of any form of defense or immunity, whether sovereign immunity, governmental immunity, immunity based on the eleventh amendment to the Constitution of the United States or otherwise, to or from any Claim or consent to the jurisdiction of any court.

6.4 OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

All Proposals are public record and are subject to public inspection after Agency issues the Notice of the Intent to Award. Application of the Oregon Public Records Law will determine whether any information is actually exempt from disclosure.

All Proposals submitted in response to this RFP become the Property of Agency. By submitting a Proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer grants the State a non-exclusive, perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free license for the rights to copy, distribute, display, prepare derivative works of and transmit the Proposal solely for the purpose of evaluating the Proposal, negotiating a Contract, if awarded to Proposer, or as otherwise needed to administer the RFP process, and to fulfill obligations under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478).

6.5 CANCELLATION OF RFP; REJECTION OF PROPOSAL; NO DAMAGES.

Pursuant to ORS 279B.100, Agency may reject any or all Proposals in-whole or in-part or may cancel this RFP at any time when the rejection or cancellation is in the best interest of the State or Agency, as determined by Agency. Neither the State nor Agency is liable to any Proposer for any loss or expense caused by or resulting from the delay, suspension, or cancellation of the RFP, award, or rejection of any Proposal.

6.6 COST OF SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL

Proposer shall pay all the costs in submitting its Proposal, including, but not limited to, the costs to prepare and submit the Proposal, costs of samples and other supporting materials, costs to participate in demonstrations, or costs associated with protests.

https://www.oregon.gov/biz/programs/COBID/Pages/default.aspx

6.7 STATEWIDE E-WASTE/RECOVERY PROCEDURE

If applicable, Proposer shall include information in its Proposal that demonstrates compliance with the Statewide E-Waste/Recovery Procedure #107-011-050_PR. Visit the DAS website www.oregon.gov/das and use the search bar feature to locate the procedure.

6.8 RECYCLABLE PRODUCTS

Proposer shall use recyclable products to the maximum extent economically feasible in the performance of the Services or Work set forth in this document and the subsequent Contract. (ORS 279B.025)

6.9 PRINTING, BINDING, AND STATIONERY WORK

Except as provided in ORS 282.210(2), all printing, binding and stationery work, including the manufacture of motor vehicle registration plates and plates required to be affixed to motor carriers, for the State or any county, city, town, port district, school district, or other political subdivision, must be performed within the State.

https://www.oregon.gov/das