CCMI RFP 10.03.26.pdf

Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)

STATE OF CONNECTICUT PROCUREMENT NOTICE

Request for Proposals for Consulting Services

RFP Name: Connecticut Community Makerspace Initiative

RFP #27ECD2549

Issued By:

Department of Economic and Community Development

(DECD), Office of Manufacturing

October 3, 2026 The Request for Proposal is available in electronic format on the State Contracting Portal by filtering by Organization for the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard or from the Department’s Official Contact:

Name: Brianna Lally Address: 450 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103

Phone: (860) 500-2409 E-Mail: brianna.lally@ct.gov

The RFP is also available on the DECD website at https://portal.ct.gov/decd.

Responses must be received no later than

October 23, 2026

Before 4:00 p.m.

DECD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. DECD reserves the right to reject any and all submissions or cancel this procurement at any time if deemed in the best interest of the State of Connecticut (State).

STATE OF CONNECTICUT STANDARD RFP FOR PSA PROCUREMENTS (Draft) 6.16.21

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Section I — GENERAL INFORMATION

A. Introduction B. Instructions

Section II — PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. Department Overview B. Service Overview C. Scope of Services Description D. Performance Measures E. Contract Management/Data Reporting

Section III — PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OVERVIEW

A. Submission Format Information B. Evaluation of Proposals

Section IV — PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OUTLINE AND REQUIREMENTS . . . 11

A. Cover Sheet B. Table of Contents C. Executive Summary D. Main Proposal Submission Questions E. Attachments F. Declaration of Confidential Information G. Conflict of Interest – Disclosure Statement H. Statement of Assurances

Section V — MANDATORY PROVISIONS

A. Standard Contract Provisions B. Assurances C. Terms and Conditions D. Rights Reserved to the State E. Statutory and Regulatory Compliance

Section VI — APPENDIX A. Abbreviations / Acronyms / Definitions B. Letter of Intent Form (if applicable) . . . . . . . . . . . NA C. Statement of Assurances D. Additional Relevant Forms (if applicable) NA E. Proposal Checklist

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. INTRODUCTION

1. RFP Name and Number. Connecticut Community Makerspace Initiative

2. RFP Summary. The DECD Office of Manufacturing is soliciting proposals from a qualified consulting firm to conduct an environmental scan and gather data, which will explore existing capabilities, gaps, and opportunities for a state-funded project.

With these findings, the firm is to produce a final recommendations memo that outlines best practices for an Office of Manufacturing grant program.

3. RFP Purpose. DECD was directed under Public Act 25-149 to establish the

Connecticut Community Makerspace Initiative (CCMI) program to support entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic opportunity in the state. Program funds will be used, in part, to gather the data needed to successfully develop a sustainable approach to help Connecticut's communities establish and expand makerspaces — community spaces that provide entrepreneurs access to tools, technology, or educational materials; where prototyping, creation, production, and assembly of tangible items occur; and that support the development of educational opportunities.

The final report will be used to help DECD formulate a programmatic action plan that engages communities, municipalities, and nonprofit partners in the development of makerspace capacity across the state. Connecticut General Assembly

4. Commodity Codes. The services that the Department wishes to procure through this RFP are as follows:

81140000 Manufacturing technologies 81141900 Manufacturing technology research and development services 81141901 Product research and development service 81141902 Application or technology research and development service 80000000 Management and Business Professionals and Administrative Services

B. INSTRUCTIONS

1. Official Contact. The Department has designated the individual below as the

Official Contact for purposes of this RFP. The Official Contact is the only authorized contact for this procurement and, as such, handles all related communications on behalf of the Department. Proposers, prospective proposers, and other interested parties are advised that any communication with any other Department employee(s) (including appointed officials) or personnel under contract to the Department about this RFP is strictly prohibited. Proposers or prospective proposers who violate this instruction may risk disqualification from further consideration.

Name: Brianna Lally Address: 450 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103 Phone: (860) 500 - 2409 E-Mail: brianna.lally@ct.gov

Please ensure that e-mail screening software (if used) recognizes and accepts e-mails from the Official Contact.

2. Registering with State Contracting Portal. Respondents must register with the State of CT contracting portal at https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/Registration if not already registered. Respondents shall submit the following information pertaining to this application to this portal (on their supplier profile), which will be checked by the Department contact.

Secretary of State recognition – Click on appropriate response Non-profit status, if applicable Notification to Bidders, Parts I-V Consulting Agreement Affidavit (OPM Ethics Form 5) – Requires Notarization https://portal.ct.gov//media/OPM/OPMForm5ConsultingAgreementAffidavit32814 pdf.pdf?la=en - Outdated

Affirmation of Receipt of State Ethics Affidavit (OPM Ethics Form 6) – Requires Notarization https://portal.ct.gov/media/OPM/Finance/psa/OPMEthicsForm6Final91511PDFpdf.

pdf?la=en - Outdated

Iran Certificate (OPM Ethics Form 7) – Requires Notarization https://portal.ct.gov/media/OPM/OPMForm7IranCertification32814pdf.pdf?la=en

3. RFP Information. The RFP, amendments to the RFP, and other information associated with this procurement are available in electronic format from the Official Contact or from the Internet at the following locations:

DECD’s RFP Web Page https://portal.ct.gov/decd State Contracting Portal (go to CTsource bid board, filter by “Department of

Economic and Community Development” or “DECD”.

https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard

It is strongly recommended that any proposer or prospective proposer interested in this procurement check the Bid Board for any solicitation changes. Interested proposers may receive additional e-mails from CTsource announcing addendums that are posted on the portal. This service is provided as a courtesy to assist in monitoring activities associated with State procurements, including this RFP.

4. Procurement Schedule. See below. Dates after the due date for proposals (“Proposals Due”) are non-binding target dates only (*). The Department may amend the schedule as needed. Any change to non-target dates will be made by means of an amendment to this RFP and will be posted on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, the Department’s RFP Web Page.

RFP Released: October 3, 2026 Deadline for Questions: October 8, 2026 Answers Released: October 9, 2026 Proposals Due: October 23, 2026 (*)Proposer Selection: November 6, 2026 (*)Start of Contract: December 1, 2026

5. Contract Award. The award of any contract pursuant to this RFP is dependent upon the availability of funding to the Department. The Department anticipates the following:

Total Funding Available: $80,000 Number of Awards: 1 Contract Term: Period of performance ends April 30, 2027 Funding Source: Manufacturing Assistance Act (MAA)

6. Eligibility. The scope of work, for this project, consists of performing an environmental scan, gathering data, speaking with and surveying local and national makerspaces, recommending the structure for a statewide makerspace grant program based on research gathered about national best practices, and utilizing existing national data sources, as needed. The selected vendor should have substantial experience (minimum of 5-8 years) performing environmental scans, utilizing various methodologies to develop and gather data, possess a proven track record of working collaboratively with multiple stakeholders, designing competitive grant programs, and can develop polished, professional reports.

Vendors will be asked to provide three (3) references, up to two (2) samples of a previous report(s), and resumes for key staff, which will be used as evidence of the vendor’s capability and capacity to perform the work, within the available timeline.

7. Minimum Qualifications of Proposers. To qualify for a contract award, a proposer must have the following minimum qualifications: NA

8. Letter of Intent. A Letter of Intent (LOI) is not required by this RFP.

9. Inquiry Procedures. All questions regarding this RFP or the Department’s procurement process must be directed, in writing, electronically, (e-mail) to the Official Contact before the deadline specified in the Procurement Schedule. The early submission of questions is encouraged. Questions will not be accepted or answered verbally – neither in person nor over the telephone. All questions received before the deadline(s) will be answered. However, the Department will not answer questions when the source is unknown (i.e., nuisance or anonymous questions). Questions deemed unrelated to the RFP or the procurement process will not be answered. At its discretion, the Department may or may not respond to questions received after the deadline. If this RFP requires a Letter of Intent, the Department reserves the right to answer questions only from those who have submitted such a letter. The Department may combine similar questions and give only one answer. All questions and answers will be compiled into a written amendment to this RFP. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the amendment and duly noted as such.

The agency will release the answers to questions on the date(s) established in the

Procurement Schedule. The Department will publish any and all amendments to this RFP on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, on the Department’s RFP Web Page.

10. RFP Conference. An RFP conference will not be held to answer questions from prospective proposers.

11. Proposal Due Date and Time. The Official Contact is the only authorized recipient of proposals submitted in response to this RFP. Proposals must be received by the Official Contact on or before the due date and time: October 23, 2026 no later than 4:00 p.m.

Proposals received after the due date and time will be ineligible and will not be evaluated. The Department will send an official letter alerting late respondents of ineligibility.

An acceptable submission must include the following:

One (1) conforming electronic copy of the original proposal.

The proposal must be complete, properly formatted and outlined, and ready for evaluation by the Screening Committee.

The electronic copy of the proposal must be emailed to official agency contact for this procurement. The subject line of the email must read: Connecticut Community Makerspace Initiative Proposal – (Name). Required forms and appendices may be scanned and submitted as PDFs at the end of the main proposal document. Please ensure the entire email submission is less than 25MB as this reflects The Department’s server limitations. Respondents should work to ensure there are not additional IT limitations from the provider side.

12. Multiple Proposals. The submission of multiple proposals is not an option.

II. PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

DECD Office of Manufacturing – The governmental unit within the State that oversees the growth of manufacturing, the Manufacturing Innovation Fund, and provides advocacy relative to technology, workforce, supply chain, etc.

B. SERVICE OVERVIEW

Service Title: Consulting Problem Statement: DECD is establishing the Connecticut Community Makerspace

Initiative (CCMI) pursuant to Public Act 25-149 to guide the sustainable establishment and expansion of community makerspaces across the state, with an emphasis on long-term ecosystem viability rather than one-time capital support. This RFP seeks the comprehensive research and analysis necessary to form the evidentiary basis for the program and the criteria used to award grant funds.

Service Outcome Goals:

o Inventory Connecticut's existing makerspaces and assess the general readiness of the ecosystem, o Identify the operational, financial, and community-level factors that determine whether a makerspace remains viable, and where those factors are currently failing, o Identify opportunities for state intervention that would accelerate or incentivize sustainable makerspace development, and o Recommend eligibility criteria and a competitive program structure for the CCMI grant program that utilizes national best practices.

Target User Population: DECD's Office of Manufacturing, which will apply the consultant's findings to design the CCMI grant program. The findings will ultimately serve Connecticut's makerspace ecosystem and the communities, residents, and businesses these facilities support.

Other Key Insights: The ability to facilitate conversation, collaboration, and build relationships of trust will be needed to efficiently gather the required data from makerspaces.

C. SCOPE OF SERVICE DESCRIPTION

DECD is seeking a qualified consulting firm to provide the following services:

Identify, consult with, and inventory existing makerspaces operating in Connecticut, including their location, size, equipment, programming, governance structure, and operating model, Assess the ecosystem's current capabilities and gaps, including geographic coverage, readiness to support new and expanding facilities, and the financial and operational factors that affect makerspace sustainability, Identify best practice operating models, revenue structures, and partnership approaches (drawn from Connecticut and from comparable programs in other states) that support the long-term viability of makerspaces, and

Provide a comprehensive program structure recommendation, including recommended eligibility criteria and evaluation approach, as the state prepares to establish the CCMI grant program.

1. Service Expectations

Project Deliverables: The consultant will develop three deliverables:

Connecticut Community Makerspaces Environmental Scan - This report will present the statewide makerspace inventory, the capability and gap analysis, and findings on the operational and financial factors affecting makerspace sustainability in Connecticut. It will outline the methodology used, include an executive summary, and include a separate file containing contact information for each makerspace in the inventory.

Final Program Recommendations Report - Building on the findings of the Environmental Scan, this report will translate those findings into strategic recommendations for CCMI, including program goals and priorities, the needs and gaps the program should address, and a review of national best practices and comparable makerspace grant programs. It will include an executive summary and a brief PowerPoint presentation summarizing key findings and recommendations for DECD leadership. The recommendations in this report will inform the Grant Program Framework.

Grant Program Framework - Informed by the Environmental Scan and the Final Program Recommendations Report, the Grant Program Framework will include recommendations regarding eligibility requirements, funding levels and award structure, application and selection criteria, program timelines, performance measures and reporting requirements, and other relevant program terms and conditions. The framework will provide recommendations for a grant structure that is accessible, equitable, sustainable, and capable of demonstrating measurable outcomes. The final deliverable shall provide a practical, implementation-ready grant program design, including sufficient detail to support development of program guidelines.

Reports will include appropriate graphics, footnotes, and references as needed, and the final products should be professional and polished. The consultant will submit each report in draft for DECD review and revise it in response to DECD comment prior to final submission. Final versions of each report will be delivered to the State in both Word and PDF format.

2. Projected Timeline

The project will begin after the contractual process is complete, which is estimated December 1, 2026. It is estimated that it will take approximately four (4) months to complete assessment and data collection. The Connecticut Community Makerspaces Environmental Scan Memo must be completed before January 29, 2027, to accommodate the planned schedule of the entire Connecticut Community Makerspace Initiative Grant project. The Final Program Recommendations Report and Grant Project Framework will be due to the State no later than March 26, 2027.

D. PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The following performance metrics highlight key priorities that will be analyzed with providers/vendors collaboratively during the life of the contract. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather an indication of significant performance metrics of interest to The Department. The Department looks forward to working with providers/vendors to define additional important performance metrics.

A successful project will include the following:

Documentation of outreach to makerspaces across the identified inventory, including contact attempts and participation outcomes, reported in the Environmental Scan Memo, along with a separate file containing the contact information for each makerspace.

A comprehensive Connecticut Community Makerspaces Environmental Scan that addresses items outlined in II.C.

A comprehensive Final Program Recommendations Report that addresses items outlined in II.C.

A comprehensive Grant Project Framework that addresses items outlined in II.C.

E. CONTRACT MANAGEMENT/DATA REPORTING

As part of the State’s commitment to becoming more outcomes-oriented, DECD, seeks to actively and regularly collaborate with providers/vendors to enhance contract management, improve results, and adjust service delivery and policy based on learning what works. Reliable and relevant data is necessary to ensure compliance, inform trends to be monitored, evaluate results and performance, and drive service improvements. As such, DECD reserves the right to request/collect other key data and metrics from providers/vendors.

Examples of possible data or metrics could include the following:

Response rates on surveys Number of makerspace meetings Number of makerspaces/experts contacted Data sources used Technology and subcontractors used to gather data

III. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OVERVIEW

A. SUBMISSION FORMAT INFORMATION

1. Required Outline. All proposals must follow the required outline presented in Section IV – Proposal Outline. Proposals that fail to follow the required outline will be deemed non-responsive and not evaluated.

2. Cover Sheet. The Cover Sheet is Page 1 of the proposal. The proposer must develop a Cover Sheet that includes the information below. Legal Name is defined as the name of the provider, vendor, CT State agency, or municipality submitting the proposal. Contact Person is defined as the individual who can provide additional information about the proposal or who has immediate responsibility for the proposal.

Authorized Official is defined as the individual empowered to submit a binding offer on behalf of the proposer to provide services in accordance with the terms and provisions described in this RFP and any amendments or attachments hereto.

RFP Name or Number:

Legal Name:

FEIN:

Street Address:

Town/City/State/Zip:

Contact Person:

Title:

Phone Number:

E-Mail Address:

Authorized Official:

Title:

Signature:

3. Attachments. Attachments other than the required Appendices or Forms identified in the RFP are not permitted and will not be evaluated. Further, the required Appendices or Forms must not be altered or used to extend, enhance, or replace any component required by this RFP. Failure to abide by these instructions will result in disqualification.

4. Style Requirements.

Submitted proposals must conform to the following specifications:

Paper Size: 8.5’ x 11’ Page Limit: Not including attachments, up to 5 pages Print Style: 1-sided Font Size: 12 pt Font Type: Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri Margins: 1” Line Spacing: 1.5”

5. Pagination. The proposer’s name must be displayed in the header of each page.

All pages, including the required Appendices and Forms, must be numbered in the footer.

6. Declaration of Confidential Information. Proposers are advised that all materials associated with this procurement are subject to the terms of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Privacy Act, and all rules, regulations and interpretations resulting from them. If a proposer deems that certain information required by this RFP is confidential, the proposer must label such information as CONFIDENTIAL prior to submission. In subsection __ of the proposal submission, the proposer must reference where the information labeled CONFIDENTIAL is located in the proposal.

EXAMPLE: Section G.1.a. For each subsection so referenced, the proposer must provide a convincing explanation and rationale sufficient to justify an exemption of the information from release under the FOIA. The explanation and rationale must be stated in terms of (a) the prospective harm to the competitive position of the proposer that would result if the identified information were to be released and (b) the reasons why the information is legally exempt from release pursuant to C.G.S. § 1-210(b).

7. Conflict of Interest - Disclosure Statement. Proposers must include a disclosure statement concerning any current business relationships (within the last three (3) years) that pose a conflict of interest, as defined by C.G.S. § 1-85. A conflict of interest exists when a relationship exists between the proposer and a public official (including an elected official) or State employee that may interfere with fair competition or may be adverse to the interests of the State. The existence of a conflict of interest is not, in and of itself, evidence of wrongdoing. A conflict of interest may, however, become a legal matter if a proposer tries to influence, or succeeds in influencing, the outcome of an official decision for their personal or corporate benefit. The Department will determine whether any disclosed conflict of interest poses a substantial advantage to the proposer over the competition, decreases the overall competitiveness of this procurement, or is not in the best interests of the State. In the absence of any conflict of interest, a proposer must affirm such in the disclosure statement. Example: “[name of proposer] has no current business relationship (within the last three (3) years) that poses a conflict of interest, as defined by C.G.S. § 1-85.”

B. EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

1. Evaluation Process. It is the intent of the Department to conduct a comprehensive, fair, and impartial evaluation of proposals received in response to this RFP. When evaluating proposals, negotiating with successful proposers, and awarding contracts, the Department will conform with its written procedures for POS and PSA procurements (pursuant to C.G.S. § 4-217) and the State’s Code of Ethics (pursuant to C.G.S. §§ 1-84 and 1-85). Final funding allocation decisions will be determined during contract negotiation.

2. Evaluation Review Committee. The Department will designate a Review Committee to evaluate proposals submitted in response to this RFP. The Review Committee will be composed of individuals, Department staff or other designees as deemed appropriate. The contents of all submitted proposals, including any confidential information, will be shared with the Review Committee. Only proposals found to be responsive (that is, complying with all instructions and requirements described herein) will be reviewed, rated, and scored. Proposals that fail to comply with all instructions will be rejected without further consideration. The Review Committee shall evaluate all proposals that meet the Minimum Submission Requirements by score and rank ordered and make recommendations for awards.

The Director of the Office of Manufacturing will make the final selection. Attempts by any proposer (or representative of any proposer) to contact or influence any member of the Review Committee may result in disqualification of the proposer.

3. Minimum Submission Requirements. To be eligible for evaluation, proposals must (1) be received on or before the due date and time; (2) meet the Proposal Format requirements; (3) meet the Eligibility and Qualification requirements to respond to the procurement, (4) follow the required Proposal Outline; and (5) be complete. Proposals that fail to follow instructions or satisfy these minimum submission requirements will not be reviewed further The Department will reject any proposal that deviates significantly from the requirements of this RFP.

4. Evaluation Criteria (and Weights). Proposals meeting the Minimum Submission

Requirements will be evaluated according to the established criteria. The criteria are the objective standards that the Review Committee will use to evaluate the technical merits of the proposals. Only the criteria listed below will be used to evaluate proposals. The weights are confidential.

Organizational Profile Scope of Services (to include showcasing work related to the RFP project) Work Plan (to include assessment and data gathering methodology) Three (3) References (familiar with work related to the RFP project) Example(s) of Prior Work

Evaluation Criterion Title

% of Total What would a top score look like?

Organizational Profile

5%

Online presence, mission, and testimonials that clearly denote expertise in the areas of data gathering, assessment, performing environmental scanning, the design and implementation of competitive grant programs, and report writing.

Scope of Services

20%

Relevant experience performing environmental scans

History of progressively complex work

Experience effectively utilizing a range of data collection methodology

Experience in the design of grant programs

Access to broad range of data sources (paid and unpaid)

Familiarity with the Connecticut makerspace community

Experience working on State and/or federal projects

Work Plan

60%

A clear, credible methodology for each deliverable outlined in Section II.C, including how findings from each deliverable will inform the next

A strategy for engaging makerspaces across the identified inventory that maximizes participation, including outreach methods and follow-up with non-responsive makerspaces

An efficient, achievable timeline with defined milestones and mid-project touchpoints with DECD

Deployment of services and personnel that makes effective use of the budget and timeline

A plan for accountability, communication, and collaboration with DECD

Use of both paid and publicly available data, supplemented by primary data collection and research on national best practices and comparable grant programs

References 5%

Proven history of on-time delivery Satisfaction with the final product Verification of professionalism

Examples of Work

10%

Reports that include appropriate grammar and punctuation, use of footnotes, and use of tables/graphs

Reports that clearly state the purpose, problem, target audience, methodology, etc.

Reports that are easy to understand with data that supports recommendations

Note: As part of its evaluation of the Staffing Plan, the Review Committee will review the proposer’s demonstrated commitment to affirmative action, as required by the Regulations of CT State Agencies § 46A-68j-30(10).

5. Proposer Selection. Upon completing its evaluation of proposals, the Review Committee will rank all proposals and make recommendations for award. The final selection of a successful proposer is at the discretion of the Director of the Office of Manufacturing. Any proposer selected will be so notified and awarded an opportunity to negotiate a contract with the Department. Such negotiations may, but will not automatically, result in a contract. Any resulting contract will be posted on the State Contracting Portal. All unsuccessful proposers will be notified by e-mail or U.S. mail, at the Department’s discretion, about the outcome of the evaluation and proposer selection process. The Department reserves the right to decline to award contracts for activities in which the Chief Manufacturing Officer considers there are not adequate respondents.

6. Debriefing. Within ten (10) days of receiving notification from the Department, unsuccessful proposers may contact the Official Contact and request information about the evaluation and proposer selection process. The e-mail sent date will be considered “day one” of the ten (10) days. If unsuccessful proposers still have questions after receiving this information, they may contact the Official Contact and request a meeting with the Department to discuss the evaluation process and their proposals. If held, the debriefing meeting will not include any comparisons of unsuccessful proposals with other proposals. The Department will schedule and hold the debriefing meeting within fifteen (15) days of the request. The Department will not change, alter, or modify the outcome of the evaluation or selection process as a result of any debriefing meeting.

7. Appeal Process. Proposers may appeal any aspect the Department’s competitive procurement, including the evaluation and proposer selection process. Any such appeal must be submitted to the Chief Manufacturing Officer. A proposer may file an appeal at any time after the proposal due date, but not later than fourteen (14) days after an agency notifies unsuccessful proposers about the outcome of the evaluation and proposer selection process. The e-mail sent date will be considered “day one” of the thirty (30) days. The filing of an appeal shall not be deemed sufficient reason for the Department to delay, suspend, cancel, or terminate the procurement process or execution of a contract. More detailed information about filing an appeal may be obtained from the Official Contact.

8. Contract Execution. Any contract developed and executed as a result of this RFP is subject to the Department’s contracting procedures, which may include approval by the Office of the Attorney General. Fully executed and approved contracts will be posted on State Contracting Portal and the Department website.

IV. REQUIRED PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OUTLINE AND REQUIREMENTS

Cover Sheet Main Proposal Attachments Declaration of Confidential Information Conflict of Interest - Disclosure Statement Statement of Assurances

A. Cover Sheet The Respondent must use a Cover Sheet capturing the following information:

RFP Name or Number:

Legal Name:

FEIN (not required for currently contracted providers/vendors:

Street Address:

Town/City/State/Zip:

Contact Person:

Title:

Phone Number:

E-Mail Address:

Authorized Official:

Title:

Signature:

Legal Name is defined as the name of provider, vendor, CT State agency, or municipality submitting the proposal. Contact Person is defined as the individual who can provide additional information about the proposal or who has immediate responsibility for the proposal. Authorized Official is defined as the individual empowered to submit a binding offer on behalf of the proposer to provide services in accordance with the terms and provisions described in this RFP and any amendments or attachments hereto.

B. Main Proposal Submission Requirements to Submit a Responsive Proposal:

*Please note the maximum total page length for this section is five (5)*, which excludes attachments, which should be referred to in section B and then placed in section C.

4.1 Organizational Profile:

a. Purpose, Mission, Vision, Values

b. Entity Type / Parent Organization / Years of Operation

c. Functional Organization

d. Current Range of Services / Clients

e. Qualifications

f. Relevant Experience

g. References

h. Examples of Work

4.2 Scope of Services

a. Relevant experience performing environmental scans, including projects and/or reports similar to those outlined in Sections II.B and II.C

b. History of progressively complex work

c. Experience using a range of data collection methodologies

d. Experience in the design of grant programs

e. Access to a broad range of data sources, both paid and publicly available

f. Familiarity with the Connecticut makerspace community

g. Experience working on State and/or federal projects

4.3 Work Plan

a. Methodology for each deliverable outlined in Section II.C, including the assessment and data gathering approach

b. Strategy for engaging makerspaces across the identified inventory, including outreach methods and follow-up with non-responsive makerspaces

c. Project timeline with defined milestones and mid-project touchpoints with DECD

d. Deployment of services and personnel

e. Approach to accountability, communication, and collaboration with DECD

f. Data sources, including paid and publicly available sources, primary data collection, and research on national best practices and comparable grant programs

C. Attachments

Attachments other than the required attachments identified are not permitted and will not be evaluated. See the Proposal Checklist in Appendix _ for a list of relevant attachments. Further, the required attachments must not be altered or used to extend, enhance, or replace any component required by this RFP. Failure to abide by these instructions may result in disqualification.

a. Three (3) references

b. Up to two (2) examples (written reports) of similar work (may be submitted as a physical attachment or URL)

c. Résumés of Key Personnel

D. Declaration of Confidential Information

If a proposer deems that certain information required by this RFP is confidential, the proposer must label such information as CONFIDENTIAL prior to submission. The proposer must reference where the information labeled CONFIDENTIAL is located in the proposal. EXAMPLE: Section G.1.a. For each subsection so referenced, the proposer must provide a convincing explanation and rationale sufficient to justify an exemption of the information from release under the FOIA. The explanation and rationale must be stated in terms of (a) the prospective harm to the competitive position of the proposer that would result if the identified information were to be released and (b) the reasons why the information is legally exempt from release pursuant to C.G.S. § 1-210(b).

E. Conflict of Interest – Disclosure Statement

Proposers must include a disclosure statement concerning any current business relationships (within the last three (3) years) that pose a conflict of interest, as defined by C.G.S. § 1-85. A conflict of interest exists when a relationship exists between the proposer and a public official (including an elected official) or State employee that may interfere with fair competition or may be adverse to the interests of the State. The existence of a conflict of interest is not, in and of itself, evidence of wrongdoing. A conflict of interest may, however, become a legal matter if a proposer tries to influence, or succeeds in influencing, the outcome of an official decision for their personal or corporate benefit. In the absence of any conflict of interest, a proposer must affirm such in the disclosure statement. Example: “[name of proposer] has no current business relationship (within the last three (3) years) that poses a conflict of interest, as defined by C.G.S. § 1-85.”

F. Statement of Assurances

Place after Conflict of Interest-Disclosure Statement. Sign and return Appendix _.

V. MANDATORY PROVISIONS

A. STANDARD CONTRACT PROVISIONS FOR PSA

Outlined in Comptroller’s Office PSA Terms and Conditions, which includes generic state contract requirements.

B. ASSURANCES

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, a proposer implicitly gives the following assurances:

1. Collusion. The proposer represents and warrants that the proposer did not participate in any part of the RFP development process and had no knowledge of the specific contents of the RFP prior to its issuance. The proposer further represents and warrants that no agent, representative, or employee of the State participated directly in the preparation of the proposer’s proposal. The proposer also represents and warrants that the submitted proposal is in all respects fair and is made without collusion or fraud.

2. State Officials and Employees. The proposer certifies that no elected or appointed official or employee of the State has or will benefit financially or materially from any contract resulting from this RFP. The Department may terminate a resulting contract if it is determined that gratuities of any kind were either offered or received by any of the aforementioned officials or employees from the proposer, contractor, or its agents or employees.

3. Competitors. The proposer assures that the submitted proposal is not made in connection with any competing organization or competitor submitting a separate proposal in response to this RFP. No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the proposer to induce any other organization or competitor to submit, or not submit, a proposal for the purpose of restricting competition. The proposer further assures that the proposed costs have been arrived at independently, without consultation, communication, or agreement with any other organization or competitor for the purpose of restricting competition. Nor has the proposer knowingly disclosed the proposed costs on a prior basis, either directly or indirectly, to any other organization or competitor.

4. Validity of Proposal. The proposer certifies that the proposal represents a valid and binding offer to provide services in accordance with the terms and provisions described in this RFP and any amendments or attachments hereto. The proposal shall remain valid for a period of 180 days after the submission due date and may be extended beyond that time by mutual agreement. At its sole discretion, the Department may include the proposal, by reference or otherwise, into any contract with the successful proposer.

5. Press Releases. The proposer agrees to obtain prior written consent and approval of the Department for press releases that relate in any manner to this RFP or any resultant contract.

C. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, a proposer implicitly agrees to comply with the following terms and conditions:

1. Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action. The State is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate in its hiring, employment, or business practices. The State is committed to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, or activities.

2. Preparation Expenses. Neither the State nor the Department shall assume any liability for expenses incurred by a proposer in preparing, submitting, or clarifying any proposal submitted in response to this RFP.

3. Exclusion of Taxes. The Department is exempt from the payment of excise and sales taxes imposed by the federal government and the State. Proposers are liable for any other applicable taxes.

4. Proposed Costs. No cost submissions that are contingent upon a State action will be accepted. All proposed costs must be fixed through the entire term of the contract.

5. Changes to Proposal. No additions or changes to the original proposal will be allowed after submission. While changes are not permitted, the Department may request and authorize proposers to submit written clarification of their proposals, in a manner or format prescribed by the Department, and at the proposer’s expense.

6. Supplemental Information. Supplemental information will not be considered after the deadline submission of proposals, unless specifically requested by the Department. The Department may ask a proposer to give demonstrations, interviews, oral presentations or further explanations to clarify information contained in a proposal. Any such demonstration, interview, or oral presentation will be at a time selected and in a place provided by the Department. At its sole discretion, the Department may limit the number of proposers invited to make such a demonstration, interview, or oral presentation and may limit the number of attendees per proposer.

7. Presentation of Supporting Evidence. If requested by the Department, a proposer must be prepared to present evidence of experience, ability, data reporting capabilities, financial standing, or other information necessary to satisfactorily meet the requirements set forth or implied in this RFP. The Department may make onsite visits to an operational facility or facilities of a proposer to evaluate further the proposer’s capability to perform the duties required by this RFP. At its discretion, the Department may also check or contact any reference provided by the proposer.

8. RFP Is Not An Offer. Neither this RFP nor any subsequent discussions shall give rise to any commitment on the part of the State or the Department or confer any rights on any proposer unless and until a contract is fully executed by the necessary parties. The contract document will represent the entire agreement between the proposer and the Department and will supersede all prior negotiations, representations or agreements, alleged or made, between the parties. The State shall assume no liability for costs incurred by the proposer or for payment of services under the terms of the contract until the successful proposer is notified that the contract has been accepted and approved by the Department and, if required, by the Attorney General’s Office.

D. RIGHTS RESERVED TO THE STATE

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, a proposer implicitly accepts that the following rights are reserved to the State:

1. Timing Sequence. The timing and sequence of events associated with this RFP shall ultimately be determined by the Department.

2. Amending or Canceling RFP. The Department reserves the right to amend or cancel this RFP on any date and at any time, if the Department deems it to be necessary, appropriate, or otherwise in the best interests of the State.

3. No Acceptable Proposals. In the event that no acceptable proposals are submitted in response to this RFP, the Department may reopen the procurement process, if it is determined to be in the best interests of the State.

4. Award and Rejection of Proposals. The Department reserves the right to award in part, to reject any and all proposals in whole or in part, for misrepresentation or if the proposal limits or modifies any of the terms, conditions, or specifications of this RFP. The Department may waive minor technical defects, irregularities, or omissions, if in its judgment the best interests of the State will be served. The Department reserves the right to reject the proposal of any proposer who submits a proposal after the submission date and time.

5. Sole Property of the State. All proposals submitted in response to this RFP are to be the sole property of the State. Any product, whether acceptable or unacceptable, developed under a contract awarded as a result of this RFP shall be the sole property of the State, unless stated otherwise in this RFP or subsequent contract. The right to publish, distribute, or disseminate any and all information or reports, or part thereof, shall accrue to the State without recourse.

6. Contract Negotiation. The Department reserves the right to negotiate or contract for all or any portion of the services contained in this RFP. The Department further reserves the right to contract with one or more proposer for such services. After reviewing the scored criteria, the Department may seek Best and Final Offers (BFO) on cost from proposers. The Department may set parameters on any BFOs received.

7. Clerical Errors in Award. The Department reserves the right to correct inaccurate awards resulting from its clerical errors. This may include, in extreme circumstances, revoking the awarding of a contract already made to a proposer and subsequently awarding the contract to another proposer. Such action on the part of the State shall not constitute a breach of contract on the part of the State since the contract with the initial proposer is deemed to be void ab initio and of no effect as if no contract ever existed between the State and the proposer.

8. Key Personnel. When the Department is the sole funder of a purchased service, the Department reserves the right to approve any additions, deletions, or changes in key personnel, with the exception of key personnel who have terminated employment. The Department also reserves the right to approve replacements for key personnel who have terminated employment. The Department further reserves the right to require the removal and replacement of any of the proposer’s key personnel who do not perform adequately, regardless of whether they were previously approved by the Department.

E. STATUTORY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE FOR PSA

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, the proposer implicitly agrees to comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, the following:

1. Freedom of Information, C.G.S. § 1-210(b). The Freedom of Information Act

(FOIA) generally requires the disclosure of documents in the possession of the State upon request of any citizen, unless the content of the document falls within certain categories of exemption, as defined by C.G.S. § 1-210(b). Proposers are generally advised not to include in their proposals any confidential information. If the proposer indicates that certain documentation, as required by this RFP, is submitted in confidence, the State will endeavor to keep said information confidential to the extent permitted by law. The State has no obligation to initiate, prosecute, or defend any legal proceeding or to seek a protective order or other similar relief to prevent disclosure of any information pursuant to a FOIA request. The proposer has the burden of establishing the availability of any FOIA exemption in any proceeding where it is an issue. While a proposer may claim an exemption to the State’s FOIA, the final administrative authority to release or exempt any or all material so identified rests with the State. In no event shall the State or any of its employees have any liability for disclosure of documents or information in the possession of the State and which the State or its employees believe(s) to be required pursuant to the FOIA or other requirements of law.

2. Contract Compliance, C.G.S. § 4a-60 and Regulations of CT State Agencies §

46a-68j-21 thru 43, inclusive. CT statute and regulations impose certain obligations on State agencies (as well as contractors and subcontractors doing business with the State) to ensure that State agencies do not enter into contracts with organizations or businesses that discriminate against protected class persons.

3. Consulting Agreements, C.G.S. § 4a-81. Proposals for State contracts with a value of $50,000 or more in a calendar or fiscal year, excluding leases and licensing agreements of any value, shall include a consulting agreement affidavit attesting to whether any consulting agreement has been entered into in connection with the proposal. As used herein "consulting agreement" means any written or oral agreement to retain the services, for a fee, of a consultant for the purposes of (A) providing counsel to a contractor, vendor, consultant or other entity seeking to conduct, or conducting, business with the State, (B) contacting, whether in writing or orally, any executive, judicial, or administrative office of the State, including any department, institution, bureau, board, commission, authority, official or employee for the purpose of solicitation, dispute resolution, introduction, requests for information or (C) any other similar activity related to such contract. Consulting agreement does not include any agreements entered into with a consultant who is registered under the provisions of C.G.S. Chapter 10 as of the date such affidavit is submitted in accordance with the provisions of C.G.S. § 4a-81. The Consulting Agreement Affidavit (OPM Ethics Form 5) is available on OPM’s website at http://www.ct.gov/opm/fin/ethics_forms IMPORTANT NOTE: A proposer must complete and submit OPM Ethics Form 5 to the Department with the proposal.

4. Gift and Campaign Contributions, C.G.S. §§ 4-250 and 4-252(c); Governor M.

Jodi Rell’s Executive Orders No. 1, Para. 8 and No. 7C, Para. 10; C.G.S. § 9- 612(g)(2). If a proposer is awarded an opportunity to negotiate a contract with an anticipated value of $50,000 or more in a calendar or fiscal year, the proposer must fully disclose any gifts or lawful contributions made to campaigns of candidates for statewide public office or the General Assembly. Municipalities and CT State agencies are exempt from this requirement. The gift and campaign contributions certification (OPM Ethics Form 1) is available on OPM’s website at http://www.ct.gov/opm/fin/ethics_forms IMPORTANT NOTE: The successful proposer must complete and submit OPM Ethics Form 1 to the Department prior to contract execution.

5. Nondiscrimination Certification , C.G.S. §§ 4a-60(a)(1) and 4a-60a(a)(1). If a proposer is awarded an opportunity to negotiate a contract, the proposer must provide the Department with written representation or documentation that certifies the proposer complies with the State's nondiscrimination agreements and warranties.

A nondiscrimination certification is required for all State contracts – regardless of type, term, cost, or value. Municipalities and CT State agencies are exempt from this requirement.