CSAC_RFO_25-120_Strategic_Guidance___Support.pdf

RFP SOLICITATION 25-120

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

SOLICITATION

Notice to Prospective Proposers Strategic Guidance and Support Consultant for

Undocumented Students and Mixed Status Families

March 17, 2026

CSAC RFP #25-120

RESPONSES DUE: Close of Business, 04/01/2026

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE PROPOSERS

PROPOSER REQUIREMENTS

CONTRACT TERM

COSTS

DGS OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS AND DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS

ENTERPRISE SERVICES (OSDS)

A) Purpose and Description of Services B) Proposer Mandatory Submission Requirements C) Proposer Submission Timeline and Process D) Technical Requirements

Attachment 1-Contractor Certification Clause

Attachment 2-Darfur Contracting Act Certification

Attachment 3-CA Civil Rights Laws Certification

Attachment 4-CUF Verification

Attachment 5-Payee Data Record

Attachment 6-Bidder Declaration

Attachment 7-COI and Confidentiality Statement

Attachment 8-Cover Sheet Attachment 9-Follow-on Consultant Contract Disclosure

Attachment 10-Staff Resume Table Sample Standard Agreement (STD 213)

EXHIBIT A

EXHIBIT B

EXHIBIT B-ATTACHMENT 1

EXHIBIT C

EXHIBIT D

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NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE PROPOSERS

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP) contracting opportunity for Strategic Guidance and Support Consulting Services offered by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), Fiscal and Administrative Services Division (FASD). By submitting a proposal, the Proposer agrees to the terms and conditions stated in this RFP. All documents issued under this contract incorporate the contract terms and applicable California General Provisions: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/- /media/Divisions/PD/PTCS/OPPL/Model-Language/Non-IT/gspd0401NONIT-ADA.pdf rev 06/08/2010.

Executive Order N-6-22 – Russia Sanctions

On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (the EO) regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals.

“Economic Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S. government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. The EO directs state agencies to terminate contracts with, and to refrain from entering any new contracts with, individuals or entities that are determined to be a target of Economic Sanctions. Accordingly, should the State determine Contractor is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for termination of this agreement. The State shall provide Contractor advance written notice of such termination, allowing Contractor at least 30 calendar days to provide a written response. Termination shall be at the sole discretion of the State.

Executive Order N-12-23 - GenAI Reporting Requirement Policy

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

Bidder / Offeror / Proposer must notify the State in writing if it: (1) intends to provide GenAI as a deliverable to the State; or (2), intends to utilize GenAI, including GenAI from third parties, to complete all or a portion of any deliverable that materially impacts:

(i) functionality of a State system, (ii) risk to the State, or (iii) Contract performance. For avoidance of doubt, the term “materially impacts” shall have the meaning set forth in State Administrative Manual (SAM) § 4986.2 Definitions for GenAI.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may result in disqualification. The State reserves the right to seek any and all relief to which it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon notification by a Bidder / Offeror / Proposer of GenAI as required, the State reserves the right to incorporate GenAI Special Provisions into the final contract or reject bids/offers that present an unacceptable level of risk to the State.

https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/pd/poliproc/gspd401IT14_0905.pdf https://www.dgs.ca.gov/-/media/Divisions/PD/PTCS/OPPL/Model-Language/Non-IT/gspd0401NONIT-ADA.pdf https://www.dgs.ca.gov/-/media/Divisions/PD/PTCS/OPPL/Model-Language/Non-IT/gspd0401NONIT-ADA.pdf

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Government Code 11549.64 defines “Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)” as an artificial intelligence system that can generate derived synthetic content, including text, images, video, and audio that emulates the structure and characteristics of the system’s training data.

PROPOSER REQUIREMENTS

1. Submit the proposal no later than April 01, 2026, by 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, as described further in Section (C)(2)(g) of this Notice. Late proposals shall not be accepted or reviewed. Proposers bear the risk of late delivery.

2. The Proposer must include the following information clearly labeled:

o Proposer’s Business Name o Proposer’s Contact Name o Proposer’s Contact Phone Number o Proposer’s Contact Email

3. Proposers are required to reply in writing electronically to the Contract Analyst listed on Page 4, indicating a reason if not submitting a proposal for these services. Reasons for not applying can include:

o Not available during the contract’s term.

o Resources do not possess the minimum requirements.

o Or another reason not indicated above.

CONTRACT AGREEMENT TERM

The services and activities for this contract are scheduled for a 24-month duration. The contract is in effect once final approval by CSAC is obtained. CSAC, at its sole discretion, may authorize one (1) additional twelve (12)-month term, no greater than thirty-six (36) months total, and or money, at the originally agreed-upon rates set forth in this Agreement.

The contractor shall not be authorized to deliver goods or commence performance of services and activities described in this contract prior to execution and approval. Any delivery of goods or performance of services and activities commenced prior to the execution of the contract shall be considered gratuitous on the part of the contractor.

COSTS

The estimated value for this Purchase Order shall not exceed $200,000.00, which includes ten percent (10%) of the base contract for unanticipated tasks. Any proposals received exceeding the maximum dollar amount, as well as any proposals received with a modified cost sheet, shall be deemed non-responsive and shall not be considered for award. The Purchase Order value is the base cost for the 6-month term.

All costs for developing proposals are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be chargeable to CSAC.

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DGS OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS AND DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS

ENTERPRISE SERVICES (OSDS)

If the Offeror / Proposer is currently a certified small or micro business or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), include a copy of the certification letter issued by DGS. If the letter cannot be supplied, please include a printout from the DGS’s Office of Small Business & Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services (OSDS) website to prove the Offeror’s / Proposer’s current active status. CSAC shall verify that SB/DVBE certifications are valid at the time the Offer / Proposal is due. In accordance with California Government Code (GC) section 14837(d) and California Military and Veterans Code Section 999, all SB and DVBE Offerors, sub-Offerors and suppliers that bid on or participate in a State contract shall perform a Commercially Useful Function (CUF).

Estela De Pedro, Contract Analyst Business Services Unit 11120 International Drive, Suite 100 Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 Estela.Depedro@csac.ca.gov

RFP SOLICITATION 2

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A) Purpose and Description of Services

The California Student Aid Commission is procuring services that can provide strategic guidance and support to publicly promote the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) and to elevate support and awareness for populations such as undocumented students and mixed status families.

Proposers are responsible for providing one (1) Consultant with the skills, knowledge, abilities, and experience to professionally and expertly execute the services and activities associated with the identified service areas. Further detailed information is provided in the Scope of Work (SOW), Exhibit A.

The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) was created by the legislature in 1955 and operates as the principal state agency responsible for administering financial aid programs for students attending public and private universities, colleges, and vocational schools in California.

As such, CSAC is seeking assistance with strategic guidance to publicly promote the CADAA and to elevate support and awareness for populations such as undocumented students and mixed status families. This is in alignment with CSAC’s Student Success Blueprint by providing equitable access through growing our outreach capacity to address financial aid literacy gaps. This assistance will provide strategic guidance to executive leadership, elevate solutions and promote awareness to the challenges had by underrepresented students.

A full scope of work where the Proposer shall provide all labor, equipment, and materials required to provide Strategic Guidance and Support Consulting Services as described can be found in the sample standard agreement and its exhibits enclosed.

CSAC anticipates this work to be completed remotely and may require in-person work if needed at CSAC Headquarters, address provided below. Remote teleworking is authorized at the sole discretion of the CSAC Contract Administrator or Designated Representative with the expectation that the Consultant must forgo teleworking when in-person work at CSAC Headquarters is required. The Consultant may be required to report in-person to CSAC Headquarters with a minimum of 1 day notice to the office without prior notice.

Under no circumstance will Telework be permitted outside of the United States.

Headquarters’ Location:

California Student Aid Commission 11120 International Drive, Suite 100

B) Proposer Mandatory Submission Requirements (Proposer submissions that do not meet the mandatory requirements shall be rejected)

1. A narrative proposal that describes your organization’s experience and capability as well as a work plan in response to the services needed. A description of the services sought, including a detailed scope of work, is contained in sample standard agreement and its exhibits attached in this solicitation package.

2. Staff Resumes, Certificates, Degrees, Licenses, or Permits

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3. Sample standard agreement, Exhibit B, Attachment 1, Cost Sheet

4. Payee Data Record, Attachment 5

5. Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement, Attachment 7

6. Cover Sheet, Attachment 8

7. Follow-on Consultant Contract Disclosure, Attachment 9

8. Proposer Resume Table, Attachment 10

C) Proposal Submission Timeline and Process

1. Key Action Dates

Listed below are the important action dates and times by which actions must be taken or completed.

Event Date Time

(PST)

Solicitation Available to Prospective Proposers

3/17/2026 4:30 pm

Written Question Submission Deadline 3/20/2026 4:30 pm Questions and Answers to be Posted 3/24/2026 4:30 pm Deadline for Final Proposal Submission 4/01/2026 4:30 pm Estimated Contract Award Date 4/10/2026 4:30 pm

*These are Anticipated Dates which are approximate and may be adjusted without an addendum to this RFP.

2. RFP Question Period

Notify CSAC if clarification is required regarding the services sought or if you have questions about the RFP instructions or requirements. Please submit your questions via email to Estela.Depedro@csac.ca.gov by the date listed in Table 1. Be sure to number all questions. The questions and answers shall be distributed to all solicited Proposers via email. At the sole discretion of CSAC, questions may be paraphrased by CSAC for clarity.

If paraphrased by CSAC, CSAC shall confirm with the submitter that the paraphrase captures the integrity of question. CSAC reserves the right to accept or reject individual questions.

3. Irrevocable Proposal Acknowledgement

a. A Proposer’s final offer in response to this RFP shall constitute a proposal, which shall remain irrevocable for not less than ninety (90) calendar days following the date responses are due in accordance with section C, Proposal Submission Timeline and Process, Key Action Dates. In the event of a delay in Contract award, a Proposer may extend the expiration date of its proposal an additional thirty (30) calendar days by written notice to CSAC.

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b. This expiration date may be further extended by agreement between CSAC and the Proposer to accommodate processing time for required approvals and other procurement-related reviews.

By signing the Cover Sheet, Attachment 8 and submitting a proposal, the Proposer commits to adhering to this Irrevocable Proposal Acknowledgement.

4. General Information

a. If a Proposer discovers any ambiguity, conflict, discrepancy, omission or any other errors in this RFP, the Proposer must immediately provide written notice to CSAC of such error and request clarification or modification of the affected document. Proposers requiring clarification of the intent and content of this RFP may request clarification by submitting questions electronically to the Contract Analyst listed on page four of this RFP. To ensure a response, questions must be received by the date and time specified in accordance with section C, Proposer Submission Timeline and Process, Key Action Dates.

b. CSAC may modify any part of the RFP, by issuance of one (1) or more addendum.

Addendum shall be numbered consecutively and sent to the established Proposer list for this RFP.

c. CSAC may request clarifications from Proposers at any phase of the RFP assessment and selection process for clarifying ambiguities in the information presented in the proposal.

CSAC shall provide written notice to the Proposer(s) of the documentation required and the timeline for submission. Failure to submit the required documentation by the date and time indicated in accordance with section C, Proposer Submission Timeline and Process, Key Action Dates, may cause CSAC to deem the proposal non-responsive and/or the Proposer non-responsible.

d. During the RFP Review process, the winning Proposer is to provide, at a minimum, any applicable licenses, permits, certifications, degrees, diplomas, and/or work products. These are in addition to attachments requested as part of this RFP.

5. Submission of Proposal

a. The proposal submission is a mandatory step for all Proposers. Proposers must read the entire solicitation prior to submission of a proposal. The need to verify all documentation and responses prior to the submission of the proposal cannot be overemphasized.

b. Introduction letters, expensive bindings, colored displays, promotional materials, etc., should not be included in the proposal submission unless specifically requested, and may cause the proposal to be rejected. Emphasis should be concentrated on conformance to the solicitation instructions, responsiveness to the solicitation requirements, completeness, and clarity of content.

c. The proposal submission must be complete in all respects as described in this solicitation.

A proposal submission may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. A proposal submission shall be rejected if any such defect or irregularity constitutes a material deviation from the solicitation requirements. CSAC reserves the right to waive any non-substantive or immaterial defects that do not have a material deviation and change the final proposal submission.

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d. Any costs incurred for developing a proposal or in anticipation of award of the Contract are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to CSAC.

e. All proposal documents requiring a signature must bear an original signature of a person authorized to bind the proposing firm.

f. Proposals and related documents must be electronically prepared.

g. The Proposer shall submit their proposal as follows:

ELECTRONIC PROPOSALS: Electronic proposals must be submitted in PDF format to Estela De Pedro at Estela.Depedro@csac.ca.gov. Electronic proposals must be emailed no later than the designated time and date. The Proposer bears the risk of technological difficulties that may prevent timely submission.

h. It is the responsibility of the Proposer to ensure timely delivery of the proposal. A postmark or facsimile transmission shall not be accepted as meeting the delivery time requirements.

i. Submission of a proposal creates no obligation on the part of CSAC to purchase or contract for services.

DISPOSITION OF PROPOSALS: Upon receiving proposals, all documents submitted in response to this solicitation shall become the property of the CSAC and shall be regarded as public records under the California Public Records Act (Government Code Section 6250 et seq.) and subject to review by the public.

EVALUATION AND SELECTION: Once all responses are received, each proposal shall be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this solicitation. CSAC shall evaluate each proposal to determine responsiveness to the published requirements. Proposals that contain false or misleading statements, or which provide references that do not support claims by the Proposer, may be rejected.

6. Agreement, Execution and Performance

Performance shall start no later than the express date set by the awarding agency and the Contractor, after all approvals have been obtained and the agreement is fully executed. In addition to termination provisions contained in the attached sample standard agreement, should the Contractor fail to commence work at the agreed upon time, CSAC, upon 30 days written notice to the Contractor, reserves the right to terminate the agreement. All performance under the agreement shall be completed on or before the termination date of the agreement.

Below is a list of mandatory post award documents that must be submitted once final award is determined.

o Contractor Certification Clause (CCC 307) – Attachment 1 o Darfur Contracting Act Certification – Attachment 2 o CA Civil Rights Law Certification – Attachment 3

P a g e 10 | 41 o Commercially Useful Function Certification – Attachment 4 o Bidder Declaration (GSPD-05-106) – Attachment 6

D) Technical Requirements

1. Response to State’s Scope of Work

The Proposer’s narrative proposal responds to the State’s Scope of Work and shall be used to evaluate responsiveness to the technical requirements. Proposer’s Response shall be in either Arial or Calibri 11-point font and use single space formatting. The response must include any additional information that the Proposer deems necessary to explain how the Contractor intends to meet CSAC’s requirements. The narrative proposal needs to contain the following as appropriate:

a. Overview of the required tasks and outcomes,

b. Description of how the tasks shall be performed,

c. Work plan for each task, including sub-task description, including due date for each deliverable,

d. Include at a minimum two (2) samples of work from other projects,

e. Organization chart that identifies the proposed Contract Team,

f. Resume for consultant, detailing experience meeting CSAC’s requirements,

g. Any other requirements shown in CSAC’s Scope of Work document.

2. Minimum Qualifications

A. Contractor must possess at least 3 years of expertise working in higher education, supporting and implementing policies and practices that impact student populations.

B. Staff providing services must be regularly employed by the Contractor.

E) Administrative Assessment (Pass/Fail)

CSAC shall review all proposals to ensure the submission and completion of the required forms, documents, and certifications. The Administrative Assessment shall be assessed on a Pass/Fail basis. If a Proposer does not pass the Administrative Assessment, the Proposer may be automatically disqualified.

F) Technical Assessment – Background, Experience and Methodology (20 points)

1) Experience and Approach (20 points maximum) The Proposer’s Technical Background as it relates to the Experience and Approach, response to CSAC’s SOW – Exhibit A, must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the Strategic Guidance and Support Consulting Services phase by providing experience and project references similar in scope and size to the Strategic Guidance and Support Consulting Services as instructed above in Technical Requirements, and on Experience and Approach.

2) Proposer Resume Table – Attachment 10 (15 points maximum) The Proposer Resume shall be used by CSAC to assess Contractor qualifications. Proposer may use multiple projects to meet the total experience required for the role(s) if, and only if the proposed Contractor provided subject matter experts on the projects.

3) Interviews (25 points maximum)

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CSAC’s designated interview team shall conduct structured interviews after the assessment phase. Only the top scoring Narrative Proposals shall be invited to interview. Interviews are optional and are at the discretion of CSAC. Should CSAC determine interviews are not necessary, the 25-point maximum allotted for this requirement shall be divided into the following: 12.5 points each shall be added to Experience and Approach, as well as Staff Resume Table. Each selected proposal shall be allotted the same amount of interview time and shall be asked the same questions. The interview shall be at a minimum thirty (30) minutes in length and consist of structured interview questions. The Proposer and all staff shall participate and be present during the interview either in-person or remotely at the discretion of the Commission.

If in-person interviews are conducted, they shall be performed on-site at the CSAC headquarters in, Rancho Cordova, CA. Proposer shall be responsible for their own costs associated with the interview. In the event that an interview needs to be rescheduled, CSAC shall be notified 24-hours in advance; re-scheduling is at the sole discretion of CSAC.

G) Cost Assessment (40 points) The Proposer’s total costs shall not exceed the estimated value of this contract and the rates shall be no greater than the rates stated in Exhibit B – Attachment 1 Cost Sheet, and shall include labor, materials, supplies, travel costs, applicable taxes, and any other cost incurred to provide the services described in the SOW.

The Proposer with the lowest total cost shall receive a maximum of 40 points. For all Proposer’s, the cost is divided into the lowest Total Cost (Column A) to calculate the Percentage (Column B). This percentage is multiplied by the maximum possible cost points to calculate the Proposer’s Score (Column C). The following cost validation table is an example only.

Proposer Name

A B C Total Cost Percentage

(Lowest Proposer’s Total Cost divided by the Proposer

Total Cost)

Proposer Score

(B X 40 = C)

Proposer A $1,450,000 $1,300,000/$1,450,000 = .89 (89%)

.89 X 40 = 26.7

Proposer B $1,300,000 $1,300,000/$1,300,000 = 1.0 (100%)

1.0 X 40 = 40

Contract prices for products and/or services shall be equal to or lower than the prices set in the base contract. See SCM, Vol. 2, Chapter 6 for information on non-IT goods and services. All labor, materials, supplies, travel costs, and applicable taxes are inclusive to provide the services described in SOW - Exhibit A.

H) RFP PURCHASE CONTRACT AWARD

Award of a contract resulting from this RFP shall be based on the Technical Assessment – Background, Experience and Methodology section that includes cost as a factor in the selection process.

Review Criteria Percentage Points Administrative Assessment N/A Pass/Fail

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Technical Assessment 60% 70 points Cost 40% 30 points

TOTAL 100% 100 points

I) Scoring Methodology

The scoring method is based on administrative submission requirements, the Proposer’s Technical Assessment and Cost Assessment. This scoring methodology is used to determine the award.

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Attachment 1-Contractor Certification Clause

Contractor Certification Clause

CCC 307 CERTIFICATION

I, the official named below, CERTIFY UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY that I am duly authorized to legally bind the prospective Contractor to the clause(s) listed below. This certification is made under the laws of the State of California.

By (Authorized Signature)

Printed Name and Title of Person Signing

Contractor/Bidder Firm Name (Printed) Federal ID Number

Date Executed Executed in the County of

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Attachment 2-Darfur Contracting Act Certification

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES

DARFUR CONTRACTING ACT CERTIFICATION PROCUREMENT DIVISION

DGS PD 1 (Rev. 12/19)

Public Contract Code Sections 10475 -10481 applies to any company that currently or within the previous three years has had business activities or other operations outside of the United States. For such a company to bid on or submit a proposal for a State of California contract, the company must certify that it is either a) not a scrutinized company; or b) a scrutinized company that has been granted permission by the Department of General Services to submit a proposal.

If your company has not, within the previous three years, had any business activities or other operations outside of the United States, you do not need to complete this form.

OPTION #1 - CERTIFICATION

If your company, within the previous three years, has had business activities or other operations outside of the United States, in order to be eligible to submit a bid or proposal, please insert your company name and Federal ID Number and complete the certification below.

I, the official named below, CERTIFY UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY that a) the prospective proposer/bidder named below is not a scrutinized company per Public Contract Code 10476; and b) I am duly authorized to legally bind the prospective proposer/bidder named below. This certification is made under the laws of the State of California.

Company/Vendor Name (Printed) Federal ID Number

By (Authorized Signature) Date

OPTION #2 – WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM DGS

Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 10477(b), the Director of the Department of General Services may permit a scrutinized company, on a case-by-case basis, to bid on or submit a proposal for a contract with a state agency for goods or services, if it is in the best interests of the state. If you are a scrutinized company that has obtained written permission from the DGS to submit a bid or proposal, complete the information below.

We are a scrutinized company as defined in Public Contract Code section 10476, but we have received written permission from the Department of General Services to submit a bid or proposal pursuant to Public Contract Code section 10477(b). A copy of the written permission from DGS is included with our bid or proposal.

Company/Vendor Name (Printed) Federal ID Number

By (Authorized Signature) Date

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Attachment 3-CA Civil Rights Laws Certification

CALIFORNIA CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS CERTIFICATION

Pursuant to Public Contract Code section 2010, a person that submits a bid or proposal to, or otherwise proposes to enter into or renew a contract with, a state agency with respect to any contract in the amount of $100,000 or above shall certify, under penalty of perjury, at the time the bid or proposal is submitted or the contract is renewed, all of the following:

1. CALIFORNIA CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS: For contracts $100,000 or more, executed or renewed after January 1, 2017, the contractor certifies compliance with the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code); and

2. EMPLOYER DISCRIMINATORY POLICIES: For contracts $100,000 or more, executed or renewed after January 1, 2017, if a Contractor has an internal policy against a sovereign nation or peoples recognized by the United States government, the Contractor certifies that such policies are not used in violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) or the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code).

CERTIFICATION

I, the official named below, certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

1. Proposer/Bidder Firm Name (Printed):

2. Federal ID Number:

3. By (Authorized Signature):

4. Printed Name and Title of Person Signing:

5. Date Executed:

6. Executed in the County and State of:

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Attachment 4-CUF Verification

COMMERCIALLY USEFUL FUNCTION (CUF) VERIFICATION FORM

All bidders must complete the CUF Verification form and include it with the bid response.

This form must be completed and returned for the bid to be considered responsive if any of the following are involved:

Certified SB/DVBE prime contractors who are not the direct manufacturer of the contracted goods or direct provider of contracted services and not using subcontractors.

Certified SB/DVBE prime contractors using any subcontractors. Certified SB/DVBE subcontractors.

Military and Veterans Code Section 999 and Government Code Section 14837 establish that a certified SB or DVBE must perform a “commercially useful function” (CUF). CUF is defined as a business that meets ALL the following five requirements.

Vendor Name: Certification #:

1. Certified vendor is responsible for the execution of a distinct element of contract work, including supplying of goods/services?

Yes _

No _

2. Certified vendor carries out its obligation by performing, managing, or supervise the work, including supplying of goods/services?

3. Certified vendor performs work that is normal for the firm’s business services and function?

4. Certified vendor is responsible – with respect to products, inventories, materials and supplies required for the subcontract – for negotiating price, determining quality and quantity, ordering, installing (if applicable), and paying for the material?

5. Certified vendor is not subcontracting a portion of the work greater than expected by industry practices?

If the answer to any of the question listed above is “No”, the certified vendor in question is not performing a CUF and will not be considered for the proposed contract “as is”.

Please refer to the Bidder Declaration (GSPD-05-105), the STD 843 and the vendor SB and/or DVBE certification for additional information regarding CUF requirements.

Please sign and return this form as required by the solicitation.

Print Name: Title:

Signature: Date:

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Attachment 5-Payee Data Record

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Attachment 6-Bidder Declaration

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Attachment 7-COI and Confidentiality Statement

CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT

As an authorized representative or corporate officer of the company name below, I have the authority to bind the company contractually, and I agree that all persons employed by this company will adhere to the following policy: All information belonging to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) or its affiliated agencies is considered sensitive and confidential and cannot be disclosed to any person or entity that is not directly approved to participate in the work required to execute this Agreement.

I certify that I will keep all project information including (but not limited to) information concerning the planning, processes, development or procedures of the project, and all communication with CSAC or its affiliates related to any procurement process, confidential and secure.

I will not copy, give or otherwise disclose such information to any other person unless CSAC has on file a Confidentiality Statement signed by the other person(s), and the disclosure is authorized and necessary for the project. I understand that the information to be kept confidential includes, but is not limited to, specifications, administrative requirements, terms and conditions, concepts and discussions, as well as written and electronic materials. I further understand that if I leave this project before it ends, I must still keep all project information confidential. I agree to follow any instructions provided by the project relating to the confidentiality of project information.

I fully understand that any unauthorized disclosure I make may be basis for civil and/or criminal penalties. I agree to advise the Contract Manager immediately in the event of an unauthorized disclosure, inappropriate access, misuse, theft or loss of data.

I warrant that if my company is awarded the Contract, it will not enter into any agreements or discussions with a third party concerning such materials prior to receiving written confirmation from the State that such third party has an agreement with the State similar in nature to this one.

All materials provided for this project, except where explicitly stated will be promptly returned or destroyed, as instructed by an authorized CSAC representative. If the materials are destroyed and not returned, a letter attesting to their complete destruction, which documents the destruction procedures, must be sent to the Contract Manager before payment can be made for services rendered. In addition, all copies or derivations, including any working or archival backups of the information, will be physically and/or electronically destroyed within five (5) calendar days immediately following either the end of the Contract period or the final payment, as determined by the contracting Agency/state entity.

All personnel assigned to this project shall be provided a Confidentiality Statement and will be expected to sign and return it to the State’s project manager before beginning work on this project.

Representative Name:

Title:

Phone Number:

Company Name:

Address:

City/State/Zip Code:

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Attachment 8-Cover Sheet

The submission of this Offer does not obligate the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), to fund the proposed STD 213 or STD 65. If the Offer is approved for funding, a STD 213 or STD 65 will be executed between the State of California and the Offeror. When funding is authorized, the Offeror will be expected to adhere to the terms of the executed STD 213 or STD 65.

The undersigned Offeror hereby proposes to furnish all labor, materials, tools and equipment, unless indicated as provided by the State, to provide services in accordance with the specifications and provisions received with the RFP.

Full Legal Name of Offeror’s Organization

Mailing Address City State Zip

Telephone Number Fax Number MSA/CMAS #

Federal Taxpayer Identification Number CA Seller’s Permit #, if applicable

Offeror’s Contact Person Contact Person’s Telephone Number

Contact Person’s Email SB/DVBE Cert #, if applicable

Enter information below for the principal who is authorized to bind the Offeror.

Typed Name Title

Original Signature Submittal Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

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Attachment 9-Follow-on Consultant Contract Disclosure

FOLLOW-ON CONSULTANT CONTRACT DISCLOSURE

Background Information:

1. PCC Section 10365.5 generally prohibits a person, firm, or subsidiary thereof that has been awarded a consulting services contract from submitting a bid for and/or being awarded an agreement for, the provision of services, procurement of goods or supplies, or any other related action that is required, suggested, or otherwise deemed appropriate in the end product of a consulting services contract.

2. PCC Section 10365.5 does not apply to any person, firm, or subsidiary thereof that is awarded a subcontract of a consulting services agreement that totals no more than 10 percent of the total monetary value of the consulting services agreement.

3. Consultant/employees of a firm that provides consulting advice under an original consulting contract are not prohibited from providing services as employees of another firm on a follow- on contract unless the persons are named contracting parties or named parties in a subcontract of the original contract.

4. PCC Section 10365.5 does not distinguish between intentional, negligent, and/or inadvertent violations. A violation could result in disqualification from bidding, a void contract, and/or imposition of criminal penalties.

Disclosure [Mark one (1) box]:

I hereby certify that neither my firm nor any sub-contractor that my firm intends to use under the contract resulting from this procurement, is currently providing consulting services to the State under a State contract (or as a sub-contractor providing more than 10 percent of dollar value of a consulting service contract with the State) or has provided such services within five (5) years prior to the release of this RFP that are related in any manner to the services, goods, or supplies being acquired pursuant to this RFP. [Sign below.] This option is likely to apply to bidding firms that do not currently and/or never have provided consultant services to the State.

Attached is a disclosure of current and/or prior consulting services provided by my firm or a proposed sub-contractor to the State under a State contract within five (5) years prior to the release of this RFP that may be related in some manner to the services, goods, or supplies being acquired pursuant to this RFP. [Sign below and attach to this document a detailed disclosure.]

Name of Responding Firm

Signature Date Signed

Printed/Typed Name Title

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Attachment 10-Proposer Resume Table Instructions The Proposer shall complete a Proposer Resume Table - Attachment 10 (multiple pages may be used to satisfy the requirements), with qualifying project information being used to meet the minimum qualification requirements for this RFP.

The reference and contact name(s) shall be from the end user of the referenced project. References from another Proposer or contracting company are not acceptable. CSAC may contact references listed on Attachment 10 to verify the information provided by the Proposer. Any conflicting information may result in the proposal being deemed non-responsive.

Proposer Name: Provide the company name of the Proposer submitting the proposal.

Reference Summary: Identify the contact information from whom the project was completed. Enter the name, title, e-mail address, and phone number for the reference contact for the project.

Project Summary: Proposer shall provide details pertaining to the Start/End Dates, Project Name/Description, Project Contract Amount, and a visual Attachment of the Project Example.

Proposer Name:

Reference Summary

Contact Name:

Email Address:

Telephone Number:

Project Summary

Start Date:

End Date:

Project Name/Description:

Project Contract Amount:

Project Visual Example (Attachment):

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Sample Standard Agreement (STD 213)

STATE OF CALIFORNIA-DEPARTMENT

OF GENERAL SERVICES

STANDARD AGREEMENT

STD 213 (Rev. 04/2020)

AGREEMENT

NUMBER

PURCHASING AUTHORITY

NUMBER (If Applicable)

1. This Agreement is entered into between the Contracting Agency and the Contractor named below:

CONTRACTING AGENCY NAME:

California Student Aid Commission

CONTRACTOR NAME:

TBD

2. The term of this Agreement is:

START DATE:

ENTER DATE or Upon Approval, whichever is later

THROUGH DATE:

ENTER DATE

3. The maximum amount of this Agreement is:

$TBD Contract Amount (TBD dollars and TBD cents)

4. The parties agree to comply with the terms and conditions of the following exhibits, which are by this reference made part of this Agreement:

Exhibits Title Pages Exhibit A Scope of Work X Exhibit B Budget Detail and Payment Provisions X Exhibit B –

Attachment 1 Cost Sheet X

Exhibit C *General Terms and Conditions X Exhibit D Special Terms and Conditions X Exhibit E Special Provisions (Remove if Not Applicable) X *Contractors Proposal

*RFP

Items shown with an asterisk (*), are hereby incorporated by reference and made part of this agreement as if attached hereto. Exhibit C can be viewed at https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, THIS AGREEMENT HAS BEEN EXECUTED BY THE PARTIES HERETO

CONTRACTOR

CONTRACTOR NAME (if other than an individual, state whether a corporation, partnership, etc.)

CONTRACTOR BUSINESS ADDRESS: CITY STATE ZIP

PRINTED NAME OF PERSON SIGNING TITLE

CONTRACTOR AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE DATE SIGNED

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

CONTRACTING AGENCY NAME

California Student Aid Commission

CONTRACTING AGENCY ADDRESS

11120 International Drive, Suite 100

CITY

Rancho Cordova

STATE

CA

ZIP

95670

PRINTED NAME OF PERSON SIGNING

CONTRACTING AGENCY AUTHORIZED

SIGNATURE

DATE SIGNED

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL

SERVICES APPROVAL

EXEMPTION (If Applicable) https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources

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EXHIBIT A

SCOPE OF WORK

The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) was created by the legislature in 1955, CSAC has continued to operate as the principal State agency responsible for administering financial aid programs for students attending public and private universities, colleges, and vocational schools in California. CSAC has never wavered from its central mission to make education beyond high school financially accessible to all Californians. CSAC is procuring services for the Fiscal and Administrative Services Division (FASD).

The work to be performed under this Contract shall be in accordance with Exhibit A – The Scope of Work (SOW) in this Contract. CSAC’s RFP and the Contractor’s technical and cost proposal are attached hereto and incorporated by reference. If there is any conflict between the provisions in the STD. 213, including Exhibits A, B, and C, to this Contract, the latter shall prevail.

This SOW reflects the services to be provided by [insert company name] (hereinafter referred to as the “Contractor”), for the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). This SOW is for the Contractor to provide one (1) Consultant to support Organizational Strategic Guidance and Support Consulting Services.

1. PROJECT SUMMARY

A. The Contractor shall provide all labor, equipment, and materials required to provide Strategic

Guidance and Support Consulting Services. The services Contractor shall perform consists of, but is not limited to, the following:

Consulting services that can provide strategic guidance and support to publicly promote the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) and to elevate support and awareness for populations such as undocumented students and mixed status families.

B. The CSAC Contract Administrator or CSAC Designated Representative reserves the right to increase or decrease services at any time during the term of this Agreement.

C. CSAC anticipates this work to be completed remotely and may require in-person work if needed at CSAC Headquarters, address provided below. Remote teleworking is authorized at the sole discretion of the CSAC Contract Administrator or Designated Representative with the expectation that the Consultant must forgo teleworking when in-person work at CSAC Headquarters is required.

The Consultant may be required to report in-person to CSAC Headquarters with a minimum of 1 day notice to the office without prior notice. Under no circumstance will Telework be permitted outside of the United States.

Headquarters’ Location:

California Student Aid Commission 11120 International Drive, Suite 100

D. The rates specified in Exhibit B, Attachment 1, Cost Sheet, shall stay in effect for the entire

Agreement term.

E. CSAC reserves the right to exercise the option to extend the Agreement for time; one (1) additional one (1) year term, no greater than thirty-six (36)-months total, and or money at the rates specified in Exhibit B, Attachment 1, Cost Sheet.

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F. CSAC anticipates a 24-month term Agreement.

2. PROJECT REPRESENTATIVES

A. The Contract Representatives during the term of this Agreement shall be:

CSAC Contract Administrator Contractor’s Contract Administrator

Name and Title: TBD TBD Address:

City, State, Zip:

Phone Number:

E-mail Address:

B. CSAC reserves the right to identify a CSAC Designated Representative in the absence of the

CSAC Contract Administrator.

C. Any changes in Contractor’s Contract Administrator shall be immediately reported in writing to the CSAC Contract Administrator or CSAC Designated Representative and shall not require a formal amendment.

3. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

A. Contractor must possess at least 3 years of expertise working in higher education, supporting and implementing policies and practices that impact student populations.

B. Staff providing services shall be regularly employed by the Contractor.

4. PERFORMANCE DETAILS

A. Contractor shall be responsible for supplying miscellaneous materials incidental to service, at no additional charge to CSAC.

B. CSAC shall not pay for fees not listed on Exhibit B, Attachment 1, Cost Sheet (i.e., travel, freight, trip, tax, and/or gas surcharges, etc.).

5. ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

It shall be CSAC’s sole determination as to whether deliverables have been successfully completed and are acceptable to CSAC.

Acceptance criteria shall consist of, but is not limited to, the following:

A. All deliverables completed in the approved format that can be used by CSAC, including ADA compliance.

B. Reports on written deliverables are completed as specified and approved by CSAC.

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C. In-person meetings and presentations have been completed as specified and approved by

CSAC.

D. If a deliverable is not accepted, CSAC shall provide the reason in writing within five (5) days of receipt of the deliverable.

E. Any deliverables (including but not limited to reports, meetings, and presentations) not approved or accepted by CSAC shall be corrected/updated by the Contractor as directed by CSAC Project Manager and re-submitted and/or re-conducted (as applicable) at Contractor’s sole expense and no additional cost to CSAC.

6. RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTIES

A. CSAC’s Responsibilities

1) CSAC shall provide review and approval of the information and documentation provided in an agreed upon timeframe which ensures Contractor ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

2) CSAC shall provide access to staff and management, offices and operation areas as required to complete the services and activities defined under this Agreement.

3) CSAC shall provide review and approval of the information and documentation provided in an agreed upon timeframe which ensures Contractor ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

B. Contractor and Consultant Responsibilities

1) The Contractor shall review the Agreement and associated Agreement documents with the

CSAC Contract Manager or designee to ensure understanding of the responsibilities of both parties.

2) Contractor shall complete all services, activities, and reports described within this SOW, Exhibit A.

3) Contractor shall provide a consultant with adequate training and infrastructure to complete all work while insuring the CSAC’s assets are adequately protected from fraud, abuse or loss/disclosure of sensitive data.

4) Contractor to meet with the CSAC Contract Manager once every two weeks or as agreed upon to discuss project status via MS Teams or in person.

5) All work products, services, activities, and reports shall be stored on CSAC document repository in a format compatible with CSAC document standards. Documents shall be version controlled and the most current version shall always be continuously available for CSAC review. Prior versions shall also be available to CSAC as requested.

6) Contractor shall facilitate, present and report out during project meetings.

7) Should the Contractor determine that a delay exists or is probable due to failure of Contractor’s

Consultant, the Contractor shall notify the CSAC in writing immediately.

7. EXECUTIVE ORDER N-6-22 – RUSSIA SANCTIONS

On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (the EO) regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals. “Economic Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S. government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. The EO directs state agencies to terminate contracts with, and to refrain from entering any new contracts with, individuals or entities that are determined to be a target of

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Economic Sanctions. Accordingly, should the State determine Contractor is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for termination of this agreement. The State shall provide Contractor advance written notice of such termination, allowing Contractor at least 30 calendar days to provide a written response. Termination shall be at the sole discretion of the State.

8. Executive Order N-12-23 – Gen AI Reporting Requirement Policy

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

Bidder / Offeror / Proposer must notify the State in writing if it: (1) intends to provide GenAI as a deliverable to the State; or (2), intends to utilize GenAI, including GenAI from third parties, to complete all or a portion of any deliverable that materially impacts: (i) functionality of a State system, (ii) risk to the State, or (iii) Contract performance. For avoidance of doubt, the term “materially impacts” shall have the meaning set forth in State Administrative Manual (SAM) § 4986.2 Definitions for GenAI.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may result in disqualification. The State reserves the right to seek any and all relief to which it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon notification by a Bidder / Offeror / Proposer of GenAI as required, the State reserves the right to incorporate GenAI Special Provisions into the final contract or reject bids/offers that present an unacceptable level of risk to the State.

Government Code 11549.64 defines “Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)” as an artificial intelligence system that can generate derived synthetic content, including text, images, video, and audio that emulates the structure and characteristics of the system’s training data.

9. SERVICE DETAILS

A. Work Days, Hours and State Holidays

1) Normal business hours are: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.