Corporate Sponsorship RFP_1.pdf

GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER AUTHORITY

ON BEHALF OF THE SAVANNAH CONVENTION CENTER

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP # GWCCA100824EC

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP SALES

Georgia World Congress Center Authority

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP No. GWCCA100824EC Corporate Sponsorship Sales

Atlanta, Georgia

I. General Information

A. PROCUREMENT OVERVIEW

The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (“GWCCA” or the “Authority”) is interested in receiving responses from consultants or agencies specializing in corporate sponsorship sales. This Request for Proposal (“RFP”) seeks to identify potential providers of the above-mentioned services and is not lowest-responsive bid procurement. All respondents to this RFP are subject to instructions communicated in this document, and are cautioned to completely review the entire RFP and follow instructions carefully.

The Authority retains the right to reject any or all proposals or subsequent submittals and/or proposals, and to waive technicalities, irregularities, and informalities, and retains the right to cancel or conclude this procurement at any time without selecting a firm to provide the described services, without any liability to any respondents, or any other person or entity, and is under no obligation to make an award relating to this RFP to any person or entity. The final terms of any Consulting Agreement contemplated by this procurement may require compliance with the final terms and conditions of any project-related Agreements of the Authority; subject, in all cases, to strict compliance with the applicable provisions of the laws of the State of Georgia.

B. IMPORTANT- RESTRICTION OF COMMUNICATION.

From the time of advertisement of this solicitation until final award is made to a successful respondent and such award is announced, interested firms are not allowed or permitted to communicate about this solicitation or scope with any staff or any official representatives of the Authority, or their contractors or consultants, except for submission of questions as instructed in the RFP, or as provided by any existing work agreement(s). Finalists and Apparent Awardee(s) are restricted from making public statements or press releases about their selection as finalists or their apparent award. For violation of this restriction, the Authority reserves the right to reject the submittal of the offending respondent.

C. GENERAL INFORMATION.

The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) campus, which includes Georgia World Congress Center, Centennial Olympic Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Signia by Hilton Atlanta, is the largest combined convention, sports, and entertainment campus in North America. Since 2014, GWCCA has managed and operated the Savannah Convention Center (SCC) – marking the industry’s first-ever private-to-public facility management agreement. These facilities exist for the primary benefit of promoting and facilitating events and activities that generate economic benefits to the citizens of the state of Georgia as well as enhance the quality of life for every Georgian.

Georgia World Congress Center Georgia World Congress Center is the largest LEED Gold certified convention center in the world and continues to be one of the nation’s premier destinations for conventions, trade shows, film production, and much more. GWCC encompasses 3.9 million square feet and is among the largest convention centers in the nation in terms of exhibit space. GWCC features 13 exhibit halls offering 1.5 million square feet of prime exhibit space in addition to 98 meeting rooms, 3 auditoriums, 2 grand ballrooms, and various outdoors spaces and plazas. Georgia International Plaza includes a parking deck and pedestrian plaza on Andrew Young International Boulevard adjacent to Georgia World Congress Center and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Centennial Olympic Park Commemorating the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park (COP) is a 22-acre urban oasis in the center of Atlanta’s dynamic downtown entertainment district and is operated by Georgia World Congress Center Authority. COP’s great lawn provides natural seating for 20,000 and new features make it the ideal location for a variety of events. Centennial Olympic Park is located adjacent to the Georgia World Congress Center.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium/The Home Depot Backyard The 71,000-seat Mercedes-Benz Stadium (MBS) is home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United and annually hosts the AFLAC Kickoff Game, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, SEC Football Championship Game along with other special events and concerts that provide fans with an unparalleled experience while contributing to the economic growth and success of Atlanta and the state of Georgia. Sitting in the former footprint of the Georgia Dome, The Home Depot Backyard functions as a fan experience zone and parking lot during events at MBS, and as greenspace open to the public on non-event days.

Savannah Convention Center In 2014, the Georgia International Maritime and Trade Center Authority (now Savannah-Georgia Convention Center Authority) approved the selection of GWCCA to manage and operate the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center – today known as Savannah Convention Center (SCC) – marking the industry’s first-ever private-to-public facility management agreement. The 330,000-square-foot SCC currently features 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 367-seat auditorium, 50,000 square feet of prime meeting space consisting of 13 meeting rooms, a 25,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom, and four executive board rooms. In fiscal year 2020, the Georgia General Assembly approved $70M in bonds for an expansion project that will double the exhibit hall space as well as offer a 40,000 square-foot ballroom, 15 new meetings rooms, and a 900-space parking deck. The SCC expansion project broke ground in March 2021.

Signia by Hilton Atlanta Owned by GWCCA and managed by Hilton Management Services, Signia by Hilton Atlanta is the city’s largest downtown ground-up hotel development project in 40 years. The 453-foot-high, 976-room hotel overlooks Mercedes-Benz Stadium and is connected to Georgia World Congress Center’s Building C. Signia by Hilton Atlanta offers more than 100,000 square feet of meeting space, including the largest hotel ballroom in Georgia, an outdoor event deck and lawn, and three boardrooms. The hotel also features eight signature food and beverage experiences, including three restaurants and three bars, as well as world-class amenities, including a spa, beauty bar and fitness center with yoga stations, Peloton bikes and more.

The Authority enjoys a strong service reputation based upon our ability to provide a superior facility and related services. The following Request for Proposals will be used to select an organization to partner with the Authority to deliver a service to our customers in a manner that complements our ongoing operations and commitment to excellence and sustainability.

II. Project Background

The Savannah Convention Center has completed Phase 1 of its Corporate Sponsorship Program, which included the development of a detailed valuation assessment and market analysis. This phase was conducted by POV Sports Marketing and provided a comprehensive understanding of the market landscape, sponsorship value, and potential opportunities for Naming Rights and sponsorships.

Phase 2: Sales Execution Plan - This RFP pertains to Phase 2 of the Corporate Sponsorship Program, focusing on the sales execution of the identified opportunities. The selected agency will be provided with the results of the Phase 1 valuation assessment and market analysis, which will serve as the foundation for developing the sponsorship sales strategy.

Important Notes:

No Redo of Phase 1 Work: We are not seeking proposers to revisit or redo the work completed in Phase 1. The agency’s role will be to leverage the existing valuation assessment and market analysis to craft a comprehensive sponsorship sales plan and execute the sales process.

Use of Existing Data: The selected agency will be given access to the Phase 1 deliverables, including the valuation and market insights, which will aid in the identification and engagement of potential sponsors. These resources will provide a critical starting point for developing customized presentations, identifying target prospects, and guiding the overall sales process.

III. Objective

Scope of Work (SOW) for Corporate Sponsorship Sales

Objective: The Savannah Convention Center seeks an experienced consultant or agency specializing in corporate sponsorship sales to develop and execute a comprehensive Corporate Entitlement Zone and Digital Network Sponsorship Sales Plan. The selected consultant/agency will be responsible for creating customized presentation materials, identifying and engaging with potential sponsors, and managing the sales process from initial outreach through to final contract commitments and ongoing relationship management.

1. Scope of Work:

1.1. Development of Sponsorship Presentation Packaging:

• Custom Collateral Materials:

o Develop tailored sponsorship presentation materials that align with the Savannah

Convention Center’s brand and objectives. This includes graphic design, sales story and copy development.

o Review and integrate existing Savannah Convention Center marketing materials and branding impact assets to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

• Production of Presentation Decks:

o Create high-quality, customizable presentation decks that can be adapted to the specific needs of individual corporate prospects.

o Ensure that these decks are detailed and aligned with the unique value propositions of the Savannah Convention Center.

1.2. Target Sponsorship Prospect Identification and Research:

• Prospect Prioritization:

o Identify and prioritize potential sponsorship prospects using high-level contacts from local and national databases, as well as H&A MBI client lists.

o Focus on prospects with a strong alignment to the Savannah Convention Center’s offerings and target audience.

• Research and Customization:

o Conduct thorough research on each identified prospect, focusing on their corporate or brand marketing and advertising objectives, particularly in the convention, sports, and entertainment sectors.

o Incorporate this research into customized presentations that demonstrate how the Savannah Convention Center can meet and exceed the prospect’s goals.

1.3. Prospect Engagement Strategy:

• Meeting Coordination:

o Schedule meetings with prioritized prospects to present the Naming Rights and sponsorship opportunities.

• In-Person Presentations:

o Conduct in-person presentations, including site visits to the Savannah Convention Center, to effectively communicate the value of the partnership.

• Follow-Up and Closing Strategy:

o Implement a structured follow-up process to maintain engagement and move prospects through the sales pipeline.

o Work towards securing sponsorship commitments and finalizing agreements.

1.4. Sales Process Management:

• Contract Commitment Management:

o Oversee the negotiation and management of contracts with sponsors, ensuring that all terms and conditions align with the Savannah Convention Center’s objectives.

• Sponsor Fulfillment:

o Maintain ongoing relationships with secured sponsors to ensure the successful achievement of partnership objectives.

o Provide continuous support to sponsors to maximize the value and effectiveness of the sponsorship agreement.

2. Project Timeline:

• Develop a detailed timeline outlining the key milestones for the creation of presentation materials, identification and research of prospects, scheduling of meetings, presentations, follow-ups, and contract finalization.

3. Reporting and Communication:

• Provide regular progress reports to the Savannah Convention Center team, including updates on prospect engagement, sales pipeline status, and any challenges or opportunities identified.

• Maintain open communication channels for feedback and adjustments to the sales strategy as necessary.

4. Agency Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in corporate sponsorship sales, particularly in securing high-value sponsorship deals.

• Proven track record of working with convention centers, sports venues, sports teams/properties, entertainment venues or similar entities.

• Ability to deliver high-quality presentation materials and manage complex sales processes from start to finish.

5. Budget and Compensation:

• The proposal should include a detailed budget for the development of the sales plan, creation of materials, research, and execution of the sales process.

• Provide a compensation structure, including any commission-based incentives aligned with the achievement of sales targets.

Submission Requirements:

• Proposals should include examples of previous work, a proposed timeline, a detailed budget, and references.

This scope of work outlines the requirements and expectations for an agency to develop and execute a Sponsorship Sales Plan for the Savannah Convention Center. It provides clear guidelines for agencies to prepare their proposals and highlights the key areas of focus for the project.

IV. Evaluation and Selection Process

A. OVERVIEW

The Authority has enlisted the following appropriate resources for assistance in carrying out this process:

1. Selection Manager

This individual shall be assigned by the Authority and will be responsible to the Authority. This individual shall be the Issuing Officer of the solicitation and shall facilitate this procurement process, including posting of solicitations and notices, receipt of submittals and questions, coordination of review, evaluation, ranking recommendation, facilitation of any meetings and interviews, and other duties up to, and throughout selection, negotiation and prospective execution of the appropriate agreement(s).

2. Selection Committee

This Committee shall be composed of qualified persons approved by the Authority to review and evaluate respondent firms’ proposals and other submittals, and possibly interview qualified finalist firm(s) for further evaluation.

B. METHOD OF COMMUNICATION

Public procurement documents, including attachments, and associated addenda (if issued) will be publicly posted on the Georgia Procurement Registry (“GPR”) at the following web address (and may be directly downloaded using Acrobat 7.0): http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp.

General communication of relevant, significant information regarding this solicitation will also be made via the GPR. Known interested firms and those firms which are deemed likely to be interested may be directly solicited immediately after public advertisement, however interested firms and all respondents are solely responsible for checking the GPR on a regular basis for updates, clarifications, and announcements.

The Authority reserves the right to communicate via electronic-mail with the respondents’ primary contacts listed in the Proposals. The Selection Manager named herein shall be the SOLE point of contact for participating firms for the duration of the procurement. Other specific communications will be made as indicated in the remainder of this RFP. In accordance with Section I-C above, the Authority reserves the right to reject the submittal of any respondent violating this provision.

C. EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS AND INTERVIEWS

The Selection Committee will evaluate all submittals upon submittal validation by the Selection Manager which shall include verification of receipt-on-time and in good order (apparent responsiveness). Responsiveness validation will also include verification of receipt of the following signed and notarized Exhibits: Exhibit I, Proposal Certification form; and Exhibit II, Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act Affidavit form. Each Selection Committee member/evaluator will assign points using the criteria identified in Section VII. Under facilitation and coordination from the Selection Manager, the members will thoroughly review and evaluate Proposals submitted in response to this RFP, using the criteria stated herein. For each evaluator, the points assigned to each criterion will be totaled and an individual evaluator rank will be determined for each firm. One or more of the highest-ranked firms may be chosen for interview/further eligibility.

D. FINALIST NOTIFICATION

The name(s) of the firm(s) selected as finalist(s) will be posted on the Georgia Procurement Registry and will receive written notification (“Finalist Notification”) from the Selection Manager which will address the necessary elements of the remainder of the selection process. If applicable, criteria for the remainder of the selection process will be communicated in the Finalist Notification, along with other appropriate evaluation information.

http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp

V. Schedule of Events

The following Schedule of Events table represents the Authority’s best estimate of the schedule that will be followed. All times indicated are prevailing times in Atlanta. The Authority reserves the right to adjust the schedule, with prior notice, as it deems necessary.

VI. DELIVERABLES for Proposals

IMPORTANT- Proposals must include certain signed and notarized Exhibits, which are provided herein, as follows: Exhibit I, Proposal Certification form; Exhibit II, and Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act Affidavit form, and Exhibit III, Non-Discrimination Certification form. The Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the instructions provided in Section VIII-B, must be categorized and numbered as outlined below, and must be responsive to all requested information below:

VII. Evaluation Criteria

Criteria for Evaluation of Proposals

The Selection Committee will evaluate Proposals using the following criteria:

35% Factor} Experience and Track Record in Corporate Sponsorship Sales The agency or consultant’s demonstrated experience in securing corporate sponsorships, including Naming Rights and Entitlement Zones, and Digital Signage deals. The focus will be on their previous success with similar venues (e.g., convention centers, sports facilities, theaters).

20% Factor} Approach to Custom Presentation Development and Prospect Research The quality and creativity of the proposed Corporate Sponsorship presentation materials, as well as the agency or consultant’s research strategy for tailoring presentations to individual corporate prospects. This includes leveraging local/national databases and aligning the Savannah Convention Center’s offerings with sponsor objectives.

20% Factor} Sales Process and Contract Negotiation Strategy

a. Selection Manager issues public advertisement of RFP- 10/14/24

b. Deadline for submission of written questions and requests for clarification- 2:00 PM 10/23/24

c. Selection Manager provides answers/clarifications/addenda- 10/25/24

d. Deadline for submission of Proposals - 11/4/24

10:00 PM

e. RFP evaluation completed and Selection Manager issues Finalist Notification- TBD

The agency or consultant’s capability to manage the entire sales process, from identifying prospects, scheduling meetings, and conducting in-person presentations, to closing deals and finalizing contracts. This includes their negotiation approach and follow-up strategy.

10% Factor} Sponsor Relationship Management and Stewardship The agency or consultant’s approach to maintaining strong, ongoing relationships with sponsors post-contract, ensuring long-term synergy and achievement of partnership objectives.

15% Factor} Budget and Pricing The proposed budget and compensation structure, including any commission or performance-based incentives. The agency should provide a transparent cost breakdown.

VIII. Submittal Conditions

A. SUBMITTAL OF QUESTIONS AND REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATION

Questions about any aspect of the RFP, or the project, shall be submitted prior to the appropriate deadlines indicated in the Schedule of Events, and shall be submitted in writing to:

Erle Coleman Selection Manager Georgia World Congress Center Authority E-mail: ecoleman@gwcc.com

The deadlines for submission of questions relating to the RFP are the times and dates shown in the (Schedule of Events- Section V). From the issue date of this solicitation until a successful respondent is selected and the selection is announced, the Restriction of Communication shall be in effect. For violation of this provision, the Authority shall reserve the right to reject the submittal of the offending respondent. At any time prior to the submission date, the Authority may issue an RFP addendum to further clarify any part of this RFP, amend this RFP or issue instructions or further information. Each such addendum will be posted and/or distributed to all respondents. In addition, the Authority may adjust any timelines related to the project referenced herein or otherwise.

B. SUBMITTAL OF PROPOSALS

One (1) original and five (5) copies of the proposals shall be prepared, for a total of six (6) sets.

One complete copy must be provided via USB Flash Drive as a .pdf file. Each submittal shall otherwise be identical and include a transmittal letter. Submittals must be printed on standard (8½” x 11”) paper. The pages of the proposal must be numbered. A table of contents with corresponding tabs must be included to identify each section as instructed in this RFP. Responses are limited to 50 pages (preferably 12 double-sided pages) or less using a minimum of size 11 font. One (1) page shall be devoted to an Organization Chart (requested in deliverable B-1). This page shall be single-sided and not exceed 11” x 17” in folded out size. Additional information should not be added on this page.

Each proposal shall be prepared simply and economically, providing straightforward, concise delineation of respondent’s capabilities. Fancy bindings, irrelevant colored displays and promotional materials are not desired. Emphasis must be on completeness, relevance, and clarity of content. NOTE: All pages shall be included in the page limit EXCEPT for the front cover, mailto:ecoleman@gwcc.com cover (transmittal letter), table of contents, tab dividers, organization chart, Exhibit I, Exhibit II, and Exhibit III.

Submittals must be sealed in an opaque envelope or box, and reference RFP GWCCA100824EC and the words “SEALED PROPOSAL” must be clearly indicated on the outside of all of the envelopes or boxes. Proposals must be physically received by the Selection Manager prior to the deadline indicated in the Schedule of Events (Section V of RFP) at the exact address below:

Georgia World Congress Center Authority GWCC Administration Reception

Attention: Erle Coleman, Selection Manager 285 International Boulevard, NW

Atlanta, Georgia 30313-1591

No submittals will be accepted after the time and date set for receipt.

Proposals submitted via facsimile or e-mail will not be accepted. All submittals shall be considered Proposals, and all submittals upon receipt become the property of the Authority. Labeling information provided in submittals “proprietary” or “confidential”, or any other designation of restricted use will not be binding upon the Authority or its representatives and will not protect the information from public view. Subject to the provisions of the Open Records Act, the details of the proposal documents will remain confidential until final award. All expenses for preparing and submitting responses are the sole cost of the party submitting the response. The Authority is not obligated to any party to reimburse such expenses.

C. RFP CONDITIONS

1. Respondents understand and agree that the Authority is not required to accept any negotiated fee resulting from a negotiation, whether lowest or not, and has the right to reject any and all submittals or to cancel the RFP process at any time without any liability to the Authority or any other person, and is under no obligation to make an award relating to this RFP to any person or entity. In addition, the Authority reserves the right to evaluate only those submittals determined to be fully responsive to the RFP. All such decisions are ultimately to be made in the sole discretion of the Authority, for any reason or for no reason whatsoever, and the Authority is under no obligation to assign any reason for the rejection, non-review or non-acceptance of any submittal. Under no circumstances shall this RFP be construed as a contractual offer.

2. Respondents understand and agree that the Authority may, in its sole discretion, request proposals from, and subsequently enter into an agreement with, any entity selected in this process, including any entity that has previously advised or acted on behalf of the Authority in any capacity. Furthermore, Respondents shall not hold the Authority, their respective affiliates and/or any of their respective employees, representatives, agents, attorneys, advisors or consultants liable for any reason whatsoever related to this RFP and respondents hereby waive all such claims.

3. Respondents may make no modification, correction or withdrawal of their submissions after the submission date. By submitting its submission, each respondent represents that: (i) it has read and understands this RFP, (ii) its submission complies with the requirements of this RFP,

(iii) respondent has the necessary corporate authority to submit its Proposal.

4. All information supplied in this RFP is provided solely as a convenience to facilitate the selection process. The Authority does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information supplied. In addition, respondent shall not rely on any express or implied statements, warranties or representations made by anyone acting on behalf of the Authority.

Respondent agrees that the Authority and its affiliates and their employees, representatives, agents, advisors or consultants cannot be held liable for any such statements, warranties or representations or inaccuracies or incompleteness in any information provided.

5. Small and Minority Business Enterprise

It is the policy of the State of Georgia that small businesses, female-owned businesses and minority businesses have a fair and equal opportunity to participate in the State purchasing process. Therefore, the Developer and the Authority encourages all small businesses, female-owned businesses and minority-owned businesses to compete for, win, and receive contracts for goods, services, and construction. This desire on the part of the Developer and the Authority is not intended to restrict or limit competitive bidding or to increase the cost of the work. The Developer and the Authority support a healthy free market system that seeks to include responsible businesses and provides ample opportunity for business growth and development. The Georgia Department of Administrative Services maintains an office to assist small businesses, female-owned businesses and minority businesses in understanding the State procurement process. In addition to contacting the Authority Purchasing Department, all businesses, female-owned businesses and minority businesses can also contact the Governor’s Small Business Center at the following address for assistance:

The Governor's Small Business Center 75 5th Street, N.W., Suite 825 Atlanta, Georgia 30308 Telephone: (404) 962-4824

The Minority Business Coordinator of the Authority is Bernard Canty, 404-223-4242, e-mail:hcanty@gwcc.com. All Respondents should be aware that contractors and subcontractors who utilize qualified minority subcontractors may qualify for a Georgia state income tax credits for qualified payments made to minority subcontractors. See O.C.G.A. § 48-7-38.

6. Drug Free Workplace

The Authority, as policy, operates all facilities as a drug-free workplace, and requires that the labor force of the consultant be drug-free. The consultant hereby acknowledges this requirement, and asserts that the organization of the consultant adheres to such policy and practice. The consultant acknowledges that it may be required to produce certificates affirming its compliance of these requirements of drug-free workplace for duration of agreement term, at execution, or at any time during the term of the agreement. The consultant shall secure from any sub-consultant hired to work in a drug-free workplace the following written certification:

"As a part of the subcontracting agreement with (consultant's name, sub-consultant's name) certifies to the consultant that a drug-free workplace will be provided for the sub-consultant's employees during the performance of this contract pursuant to paragraph 7 of subsection B of

Code Section 50-24-3." The consultant may be suspended, terminated, or debarred if it is determined that: 1. The consultant has made false certification hereinabove; or 2. The consultant has violated such certification by failure to carry out the requirements of Official Code of Georgia Section 50-24-3.

7. Non-Discrimination

The Authority shall require, prior to, or incidental to, the award of a contract, confirmation by the respondent stating that the respondent has not discriminated and will not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, religion or national origin in any of its employment practices with respect to the work force of the business, or procurement services in connection with this project. The successful respondent will be required to execute certificates, affirming these requirements of non-discrimination. More information is provided herein (See Exhibit

III).

8. Vendor Protests

The Authority has established policy and procedures for processing protests from vendors, bidders or proposers regarding the bidding solicitation process and/or award of contracts related to any organizational entity of the Authority. More information on the policy and procedures can be obtained by contacting the GWCCA Purchasing Department.

Bidders/Proposers are hereby cautioned that the policy dictates the following requirements of the Bidder/Proposer:

a. An actual bidder/proposer who is aggrieved regarding the award of a contract must file a written protest in accordance with this policy no later than ten (10) calendar days following the award.

b. A vendor who is aggrieved regarding a solicitation must file a written protest in accordance with this policy no later than two (2) business days prior to submittal deadline.

Exhibit I

PROPOSAL CERTIFICATION FORM

I, __________________________, being duly sworn, state that I am ______________________ (title) of ___________________________________________ (firm) and hereby duly certify that I have read and understand the information presented in the attached proposal and any enclosure and exhibits thereto.

I further certify that to the best of my knowledge the information given in response to the Request for Proposal is full, complete and truthful.

I further certify that the submitting firm and any principal employee of the submitting firm has not, in the immediately preceding five (5) years, been convicted of any crime of moral turpitude or any felony offense, nor has had their professional license suspended, revoked or been subjected to disciplinary proceedings.

I further certify that the submitting firm has not, in the immediately preceding five (5) years, been suspended or debarred from contracting with any federal, state or local government agency, and further, that the submitting firm is not now under consideration for suspension or debarment from any such agency.

I further certify that the submitting firm has not in the immediately preceding five (5) years been defaulted in any federal, state or local government agency contract and further, that the submitting firm is not now under any notice of intent to default on any such contract.

I acknowledge, agree and authorize, and certify that the proposer acknowledges, agrees and authorizes, that the Authority may, by means that either deems appropriate, determine the accuracy and truth of the information provided by the proposer and that the Authority may contact any individual or entity named in the Proposal for the purpose of verifying the information supplied therein.

I acknowledge and agree that all of the information contained in the Proposal is submitted for the express purpose of inducing the Authority to award a contract.

I certify we have not employed or retained any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for it, to solicit or secure this contract and that we have not paid or agreed to pay any person, company, corporation, individual, or firm, other than a bona fide employee working solely for us, any fee, commission, percentage, gift, or other consideration contingent upon or resulting from the award or the making of this contract.

I certify that any proposal we submit for this project shall be made without prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting or who will be submitting a separate proposal on the same project or for the same services, materials, labor, supplies, or equipment and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. We understand collusive bidding is a violation of state and federal law and can result in fines, prison sentences, and civil damage awards. We agree to abide by all conditions of this solicitation. We certify that no person associated with our firm is a member of the Board of Governor’s or officer or employee of the Authority or holds any statewide elective or appointed office. We further certify that no person who holds any state-wide elective or appointed office or who is a member of the Board of Governors or officer or employee of the Authority has been paid or promised by the firm any compensation in connection with this procurement by the Authority.

A material false statement or omission made in conjunction with this proposal is sufficient cause for suspension or debarment from further contracts, or denial of rescission of any contract entered into based upon this proposal thereby precluding the firm from doing business with, or performing work for, the State of Georgia. In addition, such false statement or omission may subject the person and entity making the proposal to criminal prosecution under the laws of the State of Georgia of the United States, including but not limited to O.C.G.A. §16-10-20, 18 U.S.C. §§1001 or 1341.

Sworn and subscribed before me

This _____ day of ________, 20___. Signature

NOTARY PUBLIC

My Commission Expires: _________________ NOTARY SEAL

EXHIBIT II

GEORGIA SECURITY AND IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE ACT AFFIDAVIT

Solicitation No.: RFP GWCCA100824EC

Respondent’s Name: _____________________________________________

STATE OF GEORGIA

CONSULTANT AFFIDAVIT

By executing this affidavit, the undersigned Consultant verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A.

§13-10-91, stating affirmatively that the individual, firm, or corporation which is interested in contracting with the Authority has registered with, is authorized to participate in, and is participating in the federal work authorization program commonly known as E-Verify,* in accordance with the applicable provisions and deadlines established in O.C.G.A. 13-10-91.

The undersigned Consultant further agrees that it will continue to use the federal work authorization program throughout the prospective contract period and, should it employ or contract with any sub-consultant(s) in connection with the physical performance of services pursuant to this prospective contract with the Authority, Consultant will secure from such sub-consultant(s) similar verification of compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 on the Sub-consultant Affidavit provided in Rule 300-10-01-.08 or a substantially similar form. Consultant further agrees to maintain records of such compliance and provide a copy of each such verification to the Authority at the time the sub-consultant(s) is retained to perform such service.

EEV / E-VerifyTM User Identification Number Date of Authorization

BY: Authorized Officer or Agent Date (Contractor Name)

Title of Authorized Officer or Agent of Consultant

Printed Name of Authorized Officer or Agent

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN

BEFORE ME ON THIS THE

_____ DAY OF ______________________, 20_

________________________________________ [NOTARY SEAL]

Notary Public

My Commission Expires: ___________________

*or any subsequent replacement operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security or any equivalent federal work authorization program operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security to verify information of newly hired employees, pursuant to the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA), P.L. 99-603

EXHIBIT III

NON DISCRIMINATION AGREEMENT

The undersigned, acting by and through its duly authorized representative (the "Contractor") agrees that during the performance of the Agreement to which this undertaking is appended:

A. The Contractor shall not discriminate against any employee, or applicant for employment, because of race, religion, color, sex or national origin. As used herein, the words "shall not discriminate" shall apply without limitation to the following:

1. Recruitment, whether by advertising or other means; compensation, whether in the form of rates of pay or other forms of compensation; selection for training, including apprenticeship; promotions; upgrading; demotions; downgrading;

transfers; layoffs; and terminations.

The Contractor agrees to and shall post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices setting forth the provisions of this equal employment opportunity clause.

B. The Contractor shall, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees, placed by or on behalf of the Contractor, state that qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment· without regard to race, religion, color, sex or national origin.

C. The Contractor shall send to each labor union or representative of workers with which the

Contractor may have a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding a notice advising the labor union or workers' representative of the Contractor's commitments under the equal employment opportunity requirements set forth herein and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment.

D. The Contractor shall furnish all information and reports required by the Authority and shall permit access to the books, records and accounts of the Contractor during. normal business hours by the Authority for the purposes of investigation so as to ascertain compliance with the foregoing requirements, including, if requested by the Authority, annual reports reflecting the nature of its work force by position, categories or classifications, and the impact on such work force by employment, promotion, layoff, resignation, transfer and termination of employees during the period covered by the report.

DATED:

CONTRACTOR: ____________________________

By:

EXHIBIT “III” CONTINUED

The undersigned, acting by and through its duly authorized representative, affirmatively undertakes that it will affirmatively encourage and solicit participation by all qualified business enterprises in the subcontracting by the undersigned of any obligation of the undersigned in the performance of the agreement to which this undertaking is appended and in the purchase of goods or services incident to the performance of such agreement, including business enterprises which are owned by or the work force of which is comprised of race, color, creed, sex or national origin minorities and disadvantaged business enterprises. Without limitation of the foregoing, with respect to minority business enterprises and disadvantaged business enterprises, the undersigned agrees that as appropriate and feasible, the undersigned will:

A. Give notice publicly and to appropriate organizations with respect to specific procurement activities of the undersigned that such activity presents contracting opportunities to minority business enterprises or disadvantaged business enterprises for the supply of goods or services to the successful subcontractor or supplier contracting with the Authority.

B. Give notice in connection with specific procurement activities of the potential availability of tax incentives with respect to the purchase of goods, property or service from minority business enterprises or disadvantaged business enterprises.

C. Engage in specific and continuing recruitment and educational efforts directed at organizations representing minority business enterprises or disadvantaged business enterprises.

D. Engage in subcontracting or purchasing procedures which, consistent with the goals of obtaining the highest quality products or services for the lowest cost, enhance opportunities for participation by minority business enterprises or disadvantaged business enterprises.

The undersigned shall maintain records with respect to its activities under this instrument. Such records shall be open to the Authority for the Authority's inspection at reasonable times.

Nothing herein contained shall require the undersigned to award any subcontractor contract for the purchase of goods or services on the basis of the race, creed, color, sex or national origin composition of the ownership or workforce of any firm.

The undersigned further acknowledges that nothing herein is intended to restrict or limit competitive bidding in the award by undersigned of any subcontract or other contract or is intended to increase the cost of any subcontractor or other contract to the undersigned.

As used herein, “disadvantaged business enterprise” means a business which has been and is its participation in the line of business in which it is engaged as a result of any one or more of the following:

A. Disadvantage as a result of prior discrimination against the business on the basis of race, creed, color, sex or national origin of its ownership or work force (i) in the award of contracts or subcontracts; (ii) in the availability of bonds or insurance; or (iii) in the availability of financing; or (iv) in membership in trade associations; or (v) in training opportunities for its work force.

B. Disadvantage because of previously inadequate working capital.

C. Disadvantaged because of pervious inability to meet bonding or insurance requirements.

D. Disadvantage attributable to the developing nature of the business enterprise and consequent limitations on the nature and extent of work which the developing business enterprise has been able to perform.

E. Disadvantage attributable to factors similar to those set forth above.

DATED: , 2024

SUBCONTRACTOR: ___________________________

By:_______________________________________