C2026317_IndustrialSymbiosis_RFP.pdf

RFP S-12300-00017115 – Industrial Symbiosis Technical Assistance

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Request for Proposals:

Industrial Symbiosis Technical Assistance

Date of Issue: June 5, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time Bid Opening Date: July 6, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time

OBDD RFP no. C2026317

OregonBuys no. S-12300-00017115

Single Point of Contact (“SPC”):

Nengi Diriyai, Procurement and Contract Specialist Oregon Business Development Department 775 Summer Street NE, Suite 310 Salem, OR 97301 Telephone: 971-345-1612

Email: nengi.diriyai@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 – Sample Contract

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 SCHEDULE

1.3 OREGONBUYS

1.4 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.3 OBDD OVERVIEW AND B ACKGROUND

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK

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 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

4.3 QUESTIONS / REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATIONS

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 RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

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SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The State of Oregon, acting by and through the Oregon Business Development Department, (“OBDD”), is issuing this Request for Proposal (“RFP”) for a consultant with experience in Industrial Symbiosis to:

• Provide Industrial Symbiosis specific Technical Assistance to Pilot Communities.

• Develop strategies and prospective projects to promote Industrial Symbiosis activities regionally and statewide.

Additional details on the scope of the services are included in the Scope of Work Section.

OBDD’s proposed budget for this RFP is $900,000.

OBDD anticipates the award of one (1) Contract from this solicitation. The initial term of the Contract is anticipated to be one (1) year. OBDD reserves the right to amend the Contract for additional time, in 1 year increments for up to a maximum of 10 years and/or 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 June 15, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

Responses to Questions / Requests for Clarification Issued (approx.) June 22, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

Bid Opening Date (Proposal Due) July 6, 2026, at 3:00 or p.m.

Issuance of Notice of Intent to Award July 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. (approx.)

Award Protest Period Ends 7 calendar days after Notice of Intent to Award

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. OBDD assumes no responsibility for content obtained from other sources.

http://oregonbuys.gov/

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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. Proposers may find additional information regarding OregonBuys at:

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

1.3.2 OREGONBUYS REGISTRATION INFORMATION

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.

OBDD 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. OBDD shall not be responsible for defective registration or incorrect vendor information.

1.4 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

The 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

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

OBDD is using the Competitive Sealed Proposal method, pursuant to ORS 279B.060 and OAR 137- 047-0260. OBDD 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.

2.2.2 Project Definitions

“Industrial Symbiosis ” means the voluntary collaboration among businesses or other organizations to exchange materials, energy, water and by-products in order to optimize resource use, reduce waste and enhance economic and environmental outcomes.

“Pilot Communities” means the four communities that the successful Proposer will provide Technical Assistance to. The Pilot Communities are: COR Disposal, LLC*; Clatsop County;

mailto:support.oregonbuys@oregon.gov https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Pages/supplierresources.aspx https://oregonbuys.gov/bso/view/login/login.xhtml https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/SupplierRegistrationGuide.pdf

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Klamath County; and the Port of Morrow.

*Identified in HB 4086 (2026) as COR Healthy.

“Technical Assistance” or “TA” means the guidance, resources, and expert support provided to Pilot Communities to facilitate, plan and design industrial symbiosis projects; and Convene community meetings, identify infrastructure opportunities, complete an engineering and cost feasibility study for at least one priority capital project in each community and develop recommendations and next steps for future industrial symbiosis projects.

“Proposer” means a person or entity that submits a Proposal in response to this RFP.

2.3 OBDD OVERVIEW AND B ACKGROUND

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

2.3.1 Project Overview and Purpose

Pursuant to HB 4086 (2026), the purpose of this RFP is to select a Contractor to provide Technical Assistance to the four Pilot Communities (“Project”). The successful Proposer will allocate the same dollar amount of contract resources and TA among the four Pilot Communities, unless otherwise directed by OBDD. All deliverables must be completed and provided by June 30, 2027.

2.3.2 Desired Qualifications

Desired qualifications for the Proposer include, but are not limited to:

• Demonstrated experience facilitating partnerships between public and private entities.

• Demonstrated experience working with Oregon communities.

• Knowledge of Oregon regulatory frameworks and familiarity with local and regional regulatory barriers.

• Experience coordinating with specialized subcontractors to provide technical expertise across various Industrial Symbiosis activities.

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK

The successful Proposer will provide TA and project development support to Pilot Communities to promote Industrial Symbiosis activities in each community. The successful Proposer will support Pilot Communities in different stages of Industrial Symbiosis project implementation including: providing foundational understanding of Industrial Symbiosis concepts, scoping preliminary Industrial Symbiosis projects, and completing feasibility assessments of Industrial Symbiosis capital projects. The successful Proposer will guide the development and delivery of one (1) pilot project proposal for each Pilot Community in collaboration with the Pilot Communities and provide TA as needed to meet the needs of each Pilot Community in advancing Industrial Symbiosis in the region. The successful Proposer may engage subcontractors to provide technical insight and support the delivery of the Industrial Symbiosis project proposals for the Pilot Communities.

https://www.oregon.gov/biz

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The successful Proposer will complete the following activities identified below in Sections 2.4.1-2.4.5.

2.4.1 Stakeholder Engagement:

• Convene regular meetings with Pilot Communities and relevant stakeholders to support Industrial Symbiosis project development and provide TA.

• Provide foundational education and materials to Pilot Communities related to Industrial Symbiosis principles and activities as needed.

• Develop and maintain meeting materials, including but not limited to: invitation lists, agendas, presentation materials, and post-meeting summaries. Maintain transparent, consistent communication with stakeholders to support project coordination, clarify expectations, and track emerging opportunities or concerns affecting project development.

• Lead facilitated community-level discussions and educational sessions to enhance stakeholder understanding of Industrial Symbiosis concepts and their technical relevance to community conditions.

• Gather stakeholder insights to inform project design and feasibility assessments.

2.4.2 Initial Feasibility Evaluation and Risk Identification:

• Conduct evaluations of technical, economic, environmental, and operational feasibility for prioritized Industrial Symbiosis opportunities.

• Support Pilot Communities identify material flows, resource exchanges, facility partnerships, and infrastructure components to support Industrial Symbiosis.

• Identify key risks, barriers, permitting considerations, and mitigation strategies for potential Industrial Symbiosis capital projects.

2.4.3 Industrial Symbiosis Project Development:

• Facilitate, plan, and design Industrial Symbiosis projects tailored to the specific needs and capacities of each Pilot Community.

• Refine project concepts into draft project proposals suitable for funding, investment, and local planning processes.

• Complete an engineering and cost feasibility study for at least one (1) priority Industrial Symbiosis capital project in each participating community. Engage and manage subcontractors and subcontractor tasks as needed to support project proposals

2.4.4 Strategic Analysis & Policy Recommendations:

• Develop recommendations and next steps for each Pilot Community for future Industrial Symbiosis projects, including policy, programmatic, infrastructure, and funding considerations.

• Identify cross‑community themes, statewide opportunities, and potential long‑term strategies for each Pilot Community to expand Industrial Symbiosis activities.

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2.4.5 Deliverable:

Successful Proposer will provide OBDD a final report that includes:

• Community‑specific Industrial Symbiosis project concepts that reflect local resource flows, technical conditions, and stakeholder priorities. An engineering and cost feasibility study for at least one (1) priority capital project in each Pilot Community.

• Recommendations and strategic next steps for advancing the proposed future Industrial Symbiosis projects.

The successful Proposer shall meet the highest standards prevalent in the industry or business most closely involved in providing the Services that the OBDD is purchasing under this RFP.

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS

3.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Proposals that do not demonstrate that the Proposer satisfies the following minimum qualifications will be rejected:

a. Proposer must be a registered vendor in OregonBuys.

b. Proposer must have work experience from, at minimum, 3 projects within the last 5 years, that demonstrate coordinating Industrial Symbiosis activities with clients, stakeholders, and community partners including:

• Completing industry analysis

• Completing engineering and cost feasibility studies

• Developing policy and strategic recommendations

c. Proposer must be licensed to do business in its state and be prepared to comply with requirements for doing business in Oregon, including registering with the Oregon Secretary of State (“SOS”),

d. Experience working with Oregon communities,

e. Experience identifying regulatory barriers to business development in Oregon and familiarity with local and regional regulatory barriers to business development,

f. Experience working with public-private partnerships,

g. Experience creating regional and state strategies,

h. Experience providing training and TA to local stakeholders, and

i. One year of experience assessing international best practices for implementing Industrial

Symbiosis activities and fostering collaborations with relevant Industrial Symbiosis stakeholders.

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.2.1 Proposal Submissions

To be considered for evaluation, Proposals must contain each of the following required elements, unless otherwise identified (which are each further detailed in Proposal Requirements Section 3.3):

• Attachment A - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet

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• Attachment B - Disclosure Exemption Affidavit –submit 1 copy only (Optional)

• Attachment C - Reference Check Form

• Attachment D - COBID Certification / Outreach Plan - submit 1 copy only

• Attachment E - Responsibility Inquiry - submit 1 copy only

• Certificate of Tax Compliance

• Executive Summary

• Project Implementation Plan

• Key Persons and Resumes

• Work Samples

• Price Proposal

3.2.2 Proposal Page Limits

Proposals are limited to 8 pages. Individual sections’ page limits, if any, are described in 3.3. Any pages exceeding these limits (page 9 and on) will not be provided to the evaluation committee or considered in the evaluation. One (1) page is defined as: one side of a single 8-1/2" x 11" page, with 12-point minimum 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:

• Table of Contents

• Attachment A - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet

• Attachment B - Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Optional)

• Attachment C - Reference Check forms

• Attachment D - COBID Certification / Outreach Plan

• Attachment E - Responsibility Inquiry

• Certificate of Tax Compliance

• Executive Summary: limit 1 page

• Key Persons and Resumes: limit 2 pages per person

• Work Samples

• Price Proposal

3.2.3 Proposal Format and Quantity

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

Each Proposer shall submit its Proposal and all other submittal requirements electronically through OregonBuys in electronic files compatible with Microsoft Office applications. Proposers shall follow the procedures outlined in Section 4.4 for electronic submission.

The signed Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment A), as required by Section 3.3.1, bearing the Proposer’s authorized representative’s Signature must be submitted as a .PDF file.

If any 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.

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Proposals may not be password protected Failure to comply with these submission requirements may result in a finding of non-Responsiveness.

3.2.4 Authorized Representative Signature

Failure of Proposer’s authorized representative to sign the Proposal may result in rejection of the Proposal.

3.3 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Proposals must address each of the items listed in this section and all other requirements set forth in this RFP. Proposers shall describe the Services to be performed. A Proposal that merely offers to provide services as stated in this RFP may be considered non-Responsive and will not be considered further.

Proposals 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. Proposals should be straightforward and address the requests of the RFP. Proposals containing unsolicited marketing or advertising material may receive a lower evaluation score if required information is difficult to locate.

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

Each Proposer shall complete and submit the Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (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 sign the Proposer Information and Certification Sheet may result in a finding of non- Responsibility.

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

All Proposals are public record and are subject to public inspection after OBDD 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. OBDD 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.

3.3.3 Reference Check Form (Attachment C, Not Scored)

Proposer shall provide 1 reference from current or former client firms for similar projects performed

C2026317_IndustrialSymbiosis_RFP Page 10 of 22 for any clients within the last 5 years. References must be able to verify the quality of previous, related work.

OBDD may check to determine if references provided support Proposer’s ability to comply with the requirements of this RFP. OBDD may use references to obtain additional information, or verify any information needed. OBDD 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 complete the Reference Check Form (Attachment C) and submit the form with the Proposal.

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

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

3.3.5 Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment E, Not Scored)

Proposer shall complete and submit the Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment E). See Section 4.9.1.2 for further details.

3.3.6 Certificate of Tax Compliance (Not Scored)

Proposer shall submit a Certificate of Tax Compliance, available from the Department of Revenue website (https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/Collections/Pages/tax-compliance.aspx). OBDD strongly recommends Proposer request this certificate from the Department of Revenue as soon as possible to avoid potential delays in processing.

3.3.7 Executive Summary (Not Scored)

The Executive Summary must include no more than 1 page, which condenses and highlights the contents of the Proposal, including an overview of the Proposer's understanding of the contents of the RFP, and a description of how the Proposer generally intends to meet the RFP requirements.

3.3.8 Project Implementation Plan (Scored)

The Project Implementation Plan must provide a comprehensive work plan that Proposer intends to follow, including procedures to accomplish the tasks described in Section 2.4, Scope of Work.

3.3.8.1 Work Plan: Provide a detailed Project approach addressing the activities and tasks identified in the Scope of Work. Project approach should include detailed descriptions of the proposed strategy for accomplishing the work identified in the Scope of Work, the Project Timeline, Key Person(s) assigned or identified for technical expertise, and level of involvement of OBDD. The workplan should identify any work to be completed by subcontractors but doesn’t require subcontracts to be selected at the time of application.

The Work Plan should address how the Proposer will provide Industrial Symbiosis TA to the four Pilot Communities, meeting their individual needs.

3.3.8.2 Project Timeline: Provide a Project Timeline indicating when the activities and tasks will be completed. Project Timeline must ensure that all deliverables are https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/Collections/Pages/tax-compliance.aspx https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/Collections/Pages/tax-compliance.aspx

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3.3.8.3 Experience and Qualifications: Provide a brief background of the Proposer and any subcontractor(s) that have been identified to complete the work.

Describe Proposers (and any subcontractors’) prior history working with states or other public entities in the areas described in the Scope of Work, specifically related to Industrial Symbiosis activities. Include a description of the qualifications of any identified subcontractors.

3.3.9 Price Proposal (Scored)

Each Proposer shall submit a separate attachment detailing its Price Proposal that includes the following items:

• For each activity described in the Scope of Work, the costs must include identifiable costs, time estimates for completing each activity, and a summary of all proposed costs;

• The Price Proposal must include separate line items for personnel, travel, supplies, other costs, and administrative and overhead charges; and

• For all fully loaded personnel costs, the costs proposed must include the name and title of all positions for each individual staff person who will perform the work and list the salary/wage and fringe rate separately for each such individual;

• The Price Proposal should include how costs and work will be equally allocated to each of the four Pilot Communities.

3.3.10 Key Persons and Resumes (Scored)

Provide a Key Person list of the specific individuals who would be assigned key positions for the 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. If a Contract results from the Proposal, substitutions or replacement of staff identified as Key Persons must be approved in advance by OBDD.

3.3.11 Work Samples (Not Scored)

Proposer shall provide at least one (1) detailed work sample. Sample projects must be within the last 5 years. Sample projects must demonstrate Proposer’s previous experience providing services similar to this Proposal’s requirements as outlined in Section 2.4 Scope of Work. OBDD understands that Proposer may have a multitude of experiences that leads to their qualification for this work and that each of their prior work samples may not address this Proposal’s requirements in full. Proposer may submit more than two detailed work samples to demonstrate equivalencies in their ability to provide the services described in Section 2.4 Scope of Work across multiple previous work samples. Proposer should describe these equivalencies. For each sample project, Proposer shall include:

• An overview of each project, including project goals and objectives.

• A description of the services provided by the Proposer for the sample project and how the services relate to this Proposer’s requirements as outlined in Section 2.4 Scope of Work.

• Proposer must include the point of contact’s name, title, role on the project, email address, and telephone number.

• Any other important and relevant information regarding the project.

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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 Proposers.

Modifications, if any, to this RFP will be made by written Amendment(s) published in OregonBuys.

Proposer is solely responsible for checking OregonBuys to determine whether or not any Amendment(s) have been issued. Amendment(s) are incorporated into the RFP by this reference.

4.2 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

A Pre-Proposal conference will not be held for this RFP.

4.3 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 OBDD only if in the form of written addenda issued by OBDD.

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

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

4.4 PROPOSAL DELIVERY

Proposers shall submit their Proposals and all other submittal requirements using https://oregonbuys.gov/bso/. Proposer is solely responsible for ensuring its Proposal is submitted through OregonBuys in accordance with the RFP requirements before the Bid Opening Date. OBDD is not responsible for any transmission errors or delays, or for any mis-delivery for any reason.

Proposals submitted by any means not authorized will not be accepted.

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

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

Proposals (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.

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

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Proposal.

Proposals received after Bid Opening Date are considered LATE and will NOT be accepted for evaluation.

OBDD will open all timely received Proposals electronically on the Bid Opening Date.

4.7 PROPOSAL REJECTION

OBDD 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 persons authorized by the SPC, or inappropriate contact with the SPC.

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

• Proposal is conditioned on OBDD’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 Amendment(s).

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

Each Proposal received prior to Opening will be reviewed to determine if it is Responsive to all RFP requirements including compliance with Section 3.1 (Minimum Qualifications) and Section 3.2 (Minimum Submission Requirements). 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, OBDD may waive mistakes in accordance with OAR 137-047-0470.

4.9.1.2 Responsibility Determination

OBDD will determine if a Proposer is Responsible prior to reviewing and scoring a Proposal.

Proposers shall submit a signed Responsibility Inquiry form (Attachment E) as part of their Proposal. At any time prior to award, OBDD may reject a Proposal if the Proposer is found to be not Responsible.

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4.9.2 Evaluation Criteria

Each Proposal meeting all Responsiveness and Responsibility requirements will be independently evaluated by members of an Evaluation Committee. Evaluation Committee members may change, and OBDD 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

1-59% POOR TO FAIR – Proposer meets minimum requirements but does not demonstrate “Satisfactory” knowledge of the subject matter.

60-70% 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.

71-89%

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 Work Plan (40 Points)

• How well does the Project Implementation Plan demonstrate the Proposers strategy for accomplishing the work identified in the Statement of Work?

• How well does the Proposer’s strategy align with the Project’s needs and how likely is the strategy to lead to the desired outcomes?

4.9.2.2 Experience and Qualifications (30 Points)

• How well does the Proposer’s (and any subcontractor(s)) experience working with state and local governments align with the needs of the Project?

• To what extent does the Proposer’s professional experience and qualifications in Industrial Symbiosis activities demonstrate Proposer’s ability to provide TA to the Pilot Communities?

4.9.2.3 Project Timeline (15 Points)

• How well does the Project Timeline reflect Proposer’s ability to complete all activities and

C2026317_IndustrialSymbiosis_RFP Page 15 of 22 deliverables by the deadline?

4.9.2.4 Key Persons and Resume (5 Points)

• How well does the experience of the Key Persons and their background align with the goals of the Project?

4.9.2.5 Price Proposal (10 Points)

• To what extent does the Price Proposal demonstrate the ability to adequately service each of the Pilot Communities and timely complete all Project activities and deliverables?

4.9.3 PREFERENCES

4.9.3.1 Reciprocal Preference

For evaluation purposes per ORS 279A.120(2)b, OBDD shall add a percentage increase to each out-of-state Proposer's Proposal price that is equal to the percentage preference, if any, given to a Resident Proposer in the Proposer's state.

4.9.3.2 Tiebreakers

Oregon Supplies: If OBDD receives Proposals identical in price, fitness, availability, and quality and chooses to award a Contract, OBDD 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 Work Plan 40

4.9.2.2 Experience and Qualifications 30

4.9.2.3 Project Timeline 15

4.9.2.4 Key Persons and Resume 5

4.9.2.5 Price Proposal 10

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.

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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.

OBDD may, in OBDD’s sole discretion, determine an apparent successful Proposer with no additional rounds of competition. If additional rounds are conducted, OBDD 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.

4.12 NEXT STEP DETERMINATION

At the conclusion of a round of competition, OBDD 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 OBDD, 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 OBDD’s sole discretion, some (based primarily on a natural break in the distribution of scores), of the Proposers from a previous round. OBDD will post a notice in OregonBuys of its Competitive Range Determination and provide details about the process and schedule for the subsequent round of competition, including scoring.

4.12.2 Competitive Range Protest

Proposers who claim to have been adversely affected by the exclusion from a round may submit a Written protest of Competitive Range. Protests must:

• Be emailed to the SPC;

• Reference the OregonBuys bid number ;

• Identify Proposer’s name and contact information;

• Be sent by an authorized representative;

• State the reason for the protest; and

• Be received within 7 calendar days after issuance of the Notice of the Competitive

Range unless a different due date and time is specified in such notice.

OBDD will address all protests within a reasonable time and will issue a Written decision to the respective Proposer. Protests that do not include the required information may not be considered by OBDD.

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SECTION 5: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

5.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION PROCESS

5.1.1 Award Consideration

OBDD, 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. OBDD may award less than the full Scope of Work described in this RFP.

5.1.2 Intent to Award Notice

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

OBDD may withdraw an Intent to Award Notice if:

1) Proposer fails to submit required follow-up documents that are satisfactory as determined by

OBDD;

2) Proposer is not able to meet the Representations and Warranties of OBDD’s Contract;

3) Proposer fails to come to terms with the OBDD and execute a Contract within 30 days;

4) OBDD finds that to enter into the Contract may impair the integrity of the solicitation process or that such rejection or withdrawal is in the best interest of OBDD.

5.2 INTENT TO AWARD PROTEST

5.2.1 Protest Submission

An Affected Proposer shall have 7 calendar days from the date of the Intent to Award notice to file a Written protest. A Proposer is an Affected Proposer only if the Proposer would be eligible for Contract award in the event the protest was successful and is protesting for one or more of the following reasons as specified in ORS 279B.410:

• All higher ranked Proposals are non-Responsive.

• OBDD has failed to conduct an evaluation of Proposals in accordance with the criteria or process described in the RFP.

• OBDD abused its discretion in rejecting the protestor’s Proposal as non-Responsive.

• OBDD’s evaluation of Proposal or determination of award otherwise violates ORS

Chapter 279B or ORS Chapter 279A.

If OBDD receives only one Proposal, OBDD may in its sole discretion dispense with the evaluation process and Intent to Award protest period and proceed with Contract Negotiations and award.

5.2.1.1 Protest Requirements

Protests must:

• Be delivered to the SPC via email;

• Reference the OregonBuys bid number ;

C2026317_IndustrialSymbiosis_RFP Page 18 of 22

• Identify Proposer’s name and contact information;

• Be signed by an authorized representative of Proposer;

• Specify the grounds for the protest; and

• Be received within 7 calendar days of the Intent to Award notice.

5.2.2 Response to Protest

OBDD will address all timely submitted protests within a reasonable time and will issue a Written decision to the respective Proposer. Protests that do not include the required information may not be considered by OBDD.

5.3 APPARENT SUCCESSFUL PROPOSER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Proposer who is 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, Proposer shall secure and demonstrate to OBDD proof of insurance as required in this RFP or as negotiated. Insurance Requirements are found in Exhibit B of Attachment F.

Failure to demonstrate coverage may result in OBDD 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 (TIN) and backup withholding status on a completed W-9 form when requested by OBDD 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.

5.3.4 Pay Equity Certification

If selected for award and the Contract value exceeds $500,000 and Proposer employs 50 or more full-time workers, Proposer shall submit to OBDD a true and correct copy of an unexpired Pay Equity Compliance Certificate, issued to the Proposer by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services. For instructions on how to obtain the Certificate, visit https://www.oregon.gov/das/Procurement/Pages/PayEquity.aspx.

ORS 279B.110(2)(f) requires that Proposer provide this prior to execution of the Contract.

http://sos.oregon.gov/business/pages/register.aspx https://www.oregon.gov/das/Procurement/Pages/PayEquity.aspx

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5.3.5 Nondiscrimination in Employment

As a condition of receiving the award of a Contract under this RFP, Proposer must certify by its Signature on Attachment A - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet, in accordance with ORS 279A.112, that it has in place a policy and practice of preventing sexual harassment, sexual assault, and discrimination against employees who are members of a protected class. The policy and practice must include giving employees a written notice that the policy both prohibits, and prescribes disciplinary measures for, conduct that constitutes sexual harassment, sexual assault, or unlawful discrimination.

5.3.6 Pay Equity Compliance

As required by ORS 279B.235, Proposer shall comply with ORS 652.220 and shall not discriminate against any of Proposer’s employees in the payment of wages or other compensation for work of comparable character, the performance of which requires comparable skills, or pay any employee at a rate less than another for comparable work, based on an employee’s membership in a protected class.

Proposer must comply with ORS 652.220 as amended and shall not unlawfully discriminate against any of Proposer’s employees in the payment of wages or other compensation for work of comparable character on the basis of an employee’s membership in a protected class. “Protected class” means a group of persons distinguished by race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or age.

Proposer may not prohibit any of Proposer’s employees from discussing the employee’s rate of wage, salary, benefits, or other compensation with another employee or another person. Proposer may not retaliate against an employee who discusses the employee’s rate of wage, salary, benefits, or other compensation with another employee or another person.

5.3.7 Use of Artificial Intelligence

Proposer shall disclose to OBDD any products and/or services that it currently employs that utilize artificial intelligence (“AI”) within 15 days of signing the Contract. Contractor shall not employ any products and/or services that utilize AI in providing the Services under the Contract without prior written authorization from OBDD. Proposer may not expose any work product, documents, personally identifiable information, confidential information or other information (“Information”) obtained as a result of the Contract to AI. For purposes of this RFP, “expose” means inputting the Information into a generative AI tool, including the Information in generative AI queries, using the Information for building or training generative AI tools, or providing the Information to any publicly accessible generative AI tools. Changes to Proposer’s use of AI will require an amendment to the Contract. Notwithstanding the above, OBDD will not authorize the use of AI in any way that conflicts with Oregon Department of Administrative Services policy or guidance.

5.4 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

After selection of a successful Proposer, OBDD 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 OBDD during the Questions / Requests for Clarification

C2026317_IndustrialSymbiosis_RFP Page 20 of 22 period set forth in Section 1.2. If OBDD agrees to make any requested changes to the Sample Contract, OBDD will issue an Amendment to notify Proposers of such changes. Unless OBDD issues an Amendment modifying any of the terms and conditions, OBDD 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, OBDD 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, OBDD will consider the Scope of requested exceptions in the evaluation of Proposal. Notwithstanding the above, for avoidance of doubt, OBDD reserves the right to make revisions to the sample contract, prior to Contract execution, that it deems necessary to advance its business or legal objectives.

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

OBDD is willing to negotiate ONLY the Statement of Work and the following terms and conditions: Methods of Payment and Pricing related to accomplishing the Scope of Work.

In the event that the parties have not reached mutually agreeable terms within 30 calendar days, OBDD, 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, equity, and inclusion values across procurement processes for minority, women, emerging small, and service-disabled 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, OBDD 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 business that a service-disabled veteran owns or an emerging small business. OBDD 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

If the Contract has potential subcontracting opportunities, the successful Proposer may be required to complete and submit a completed Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan (Attachment D) prior to Contract execution.

6.3 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

This RFP is governed by the laws of the State…