ESBD_516499_1781278415167_3202600171 RFP Short Duration Training Events for VR Customers.pdf

Joe Esparza, Chairman and Commissioner

Representing Employers

Alberto Treviño III, Commissioner

Representing Labor

Brent Connett, Commissioner Representing the

Public

Steve Pier, Executive Director

Request for Proposal (RFP)

For

Short Duration Training Events for VR

Customers

Solicitation No. 3202600171

Date of Release: June 12, 2026

Responses Due: July 24, 2026, by 10:00 a.m. Central Time

924-86 Vocational Training, All Types, Including Vocational Rehabilitation and Technical Education

Sole Point of Contact for this RFP

Corie Remschel CTCD, CTCM

Procurement Lead

VendorProposals@twc.texas.gov mailto:VendorProposal@twc.texas.gov

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Article I Purpose

Article II Scope of Work

2.1 Overview/Background

2.2 Specifications

Article III Solicitation Process

3.1 Authority

3.2 Schedule of Events

3.3 Contract Documents

3.4 Attachments and Forms

3.5 Sole Point of Contact

3.6 Questions/Requests for Clarification

3.7 Addenda

3.8 VetHUB Subcontracting Plan

Article IV Response Submission Instructions

4.1 Deadline

4.2 General Information

4.3 Response Format

4.4 Discrepancies

4.5 Submission Method

4.6 Requirements Submission

4.7 References

4.8 Cost Response

4.9 Training Specifications

4.10 Offered Options

4.11 Financial Questionnaire

4.12 Corporate Guarantee

4.13 Exceptions

4.14 Binding Offer

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4.15 Franchise Tax – Right to Transact Business in Texas

4.16 Ambiguity, Conflict, or Discrepancy

4.17 Response Irrevocability

4.18 Questions or Requests for Clarification

4.19 Cost of Submission and Additional Evaluation Activities

4.20 TWC Rights

Article V Evaluation and Award

5.1 Conformance With State Law

5.2 Minimum Qualifications (Pass/Fail)

5.3 Initial Compliance Screening

5.4 Response Evaluation

5.5 Evaluation Criteria

5.6 Competitive Range

5.7 Discussions and Revised Responses

5.8 Best and Final Offer (BAFO)

5.9 Final Response Score and Total Score

5.10 Summary of Best Value Determination

5.11 Public Information Act

Article VI General Terms and Conditions

6.1 Contract Award

6.2 Contract Term

6.3 Price Adjustment

6.4 Contract Amendments

6.5 No Guarantee of Volumes, Usage, or Compensation

6.6 Governmental Entities

6.7 Respondent Waiver – Intellectual Property

6.8 Insurance

6.9 Remedies

6.10 Liquidated Damages

6.11 Changes in Ownership

6.12 Severability

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6.13 Historical Compensation

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DEFINITIONS

As used in this Solicitation, unless a different definition is specified or the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following terms have the meanings assigned below:

Table 1: Definitions

Term/Acronym Definition

ACVREP Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation &

Education Professionals

Addendum A written addition, change, or supplement to this

Solicitation that is posted to the ESBD and issued prior to the response due date.

Additional Evaluation Activities

Include Oral Presentations, Clarifications, Discussions, Proofs of Concept, Demonstrations, and/or Site Visits.

These Additional Evaluation Activities follow the evaluation of the written Proposals and may be utilized by TWC to evaluate and ensure specifications meet TWC’s needs as outlined in the Solicitation.

Additional Evaluation Activities provide an opportunity for Respondents to highlight the strengths and unique aspects or clarify their Responses. These activities may be scored, as indicated in RFP Section 5.7 Discussions and Revised Responses.

AT Assistive Technology

BAFO Best and Final Offer

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Term/Acronym Definition

Business Day The day and hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Local Time) in which TWC is open for business.

TWC is closed for business on the scheduled holidays indicated by the State Auditor’s Office available at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/holidays/.

The terms “Working Day” and “Business Day” may be used interchangeably. All uncapitalized references to “day” shall mean calendar day.

Competitive Range Consists of the Responses that have a reasonable chance of being selected for award based on the evaluation criteria and the best value criteria as stated in this Solicitation.

Contract Means the written agreement entered into by TWC and Successful Respondent, which will incorporate the contents of this Solicitation and the Successful Respondent’s Response, except as may be provided in the Contract and any amendments thereto.

Contract Term Means the definite period of time that the Contract will remain in effect.

CTCD Certified Texas Contract Developer.

CTCM Certified Texas Contract Manager.

ESBD The Electronic State Business Daily. An online platform administered by the Statewide Procurement Division (SPD) of the Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA). The ESBD may be accessed as https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd

Final Written Response Score

Refers to the final scoring of the Solicitation based on the Scoring Matrix published in the Solicitation.

https://hr.sao.texas.gov/holidays/ https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd

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Fiscal Year (FY) Texas State Fiscal Year, September 1 through August 31.

GED General Educational Development

VHSP VetHUB Subcontracting Plan. Written documentation regarding the use of subcontractors, which is required to be submitted with all solicitations for state agency contracts with an expected value of $100,000 or more and where TWC has determined subcontracting opportunities are probable. The HSP subsequently becomes a provision of the awarded Contract and shall be monitored for compliance by TWC during the term of the Contract.

IL Independent Living

ILP Independent Living Plan

IPE Individualized Plan for Employment

Local Time Central Standard Time (CST) or Central Daylight Time (CDT), as is then prevailing in Austin, Texas.

NBPCB National Blindness Professional Certification Board

NIGP National Institute of Governmental Purchasing

Offered Option Options that are not requested in a response to this Solicitation but may be identified by a Respondent and included in its Response. A Respondent is not obligated to include an Offered Option in its Response. This is an opportunity for Respondents to offer options that TWC may not have been aware of at the time this Solicitation was written. TWC makes no commitment to quantity or timing of acquisition of Offered Options and Offered Options are not considered during evaluation of Responses.

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OIB Older Individuals who are Blind

O&M Orientation & Mobility

OT Occupational Therapist

Pre-ETS Pre-Employment Transition Services

PS Purchasing Services, a section within TWC

PO Purchase Order

POA&M Plan of Action and Milestones

POCN Purchase Order Change Notice

Respondent The individual or entity that submits a Response to this Solicitation. The term includes anyone acting on behalf of the individual or entity that submits a Response, such as an agent, employee, and representative. Also referred to a “Vendor.”

Response A Respondent’s response to this Solicitation.

RFP Request for Proposal. A formal solicitation document issued by TWC to the vendor community requesting a response for goods or services. (This document.)

SA Service Authorization

Solicitation This RFP, including all exhibits, attachments, forms, and Addenda, if any. May include Requests for Revised Proposals (RFRP) or Best and Final Offer (BAFO) RFPs, if issued.

State The State of Texas and its instrumentalities, including TWC, its officers, employees, or authorized agents, and any other state agencies.

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Subcontractor Any entity(ies) or person(s) providing goods or services under the Contract on Respondent’s behalf, whether or not the entity(ies) or person(s) has/have a written agreement with the Respondent. The term does not include a state agency. The term includes an officer or employee of a state agency when the officer or employee contracts with a vendor in a private capacity.

Successful Respondent

The Respondent with whom the TWC executes a Contract to provide the goods and/or services that this Solicitation requires.

TBOTE Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners

TWC Texas Workforce Commission.

VetHUB Veteran Heroes United in Business, as defined by Chapter 2161 of the Texas Government Code and Title 34 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), § 20.282.

VPTS Vendor Performance Tracking System, as described under Texas Government Code § 2262.055 and 34 TAC § 20.115. Reporting requirements and vendor performance factors considered in VPTS are described in Texas Government Code § 2155.089 and 34 TAC §

20.509. The VPTS is available at:

https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/vpts.

https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/vpts

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Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) a qualified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor employed by TWC to lead the customer in the process of gaining skills and services needed for the customer to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment consistent with the customer’s unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.

Vocational Rehabilitation Division (VRD)

Provides expertise, services, and support to help people with disabilities achieve their employment and independent living goals. VRD administers four programs, including Vocational Rehabilitation, Independent Living Services for Older Individuals who are Blind, Business Enterprises of Texas, and Purchasing from People with Disabilities.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program a joint state and federally funded program to assess, plan, develop, and provide VR services for eligible individuals with disabilities, consistent with their unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice so that these individuals can prepare for and engage in competitive integrated employment and achieve economic self-sufficiency.

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ARTICLE I PURPOSE

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is accepting proposals to establish contracts with qualified entities, including for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations, and private colleges and universities, to deliver instructor-led, short-duration training to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) customers. These training services are designed to enhance vocational skills, support employment outcomes, and promote customer independence. Training durations typically range from one (1) to four (4) weeks but may extend up to six (6) months depending on the customer’s individualized employment plan. Procurement Services (PS) will administer the procurement process for this Solicitation, which includes Solicitation publication, handling of communications from vendors, as well as managing the receipt of Proposals for review and evaluation.

Information regarding TWC and its programs is available online and can currently be accessed at www.twc.texas.gov.

ARTICLE II SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 OVERVIEW/BACKGROUND

The TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Division (VRD) serves customers by referring them to training services designed to help individuals explore, develop, and attain skills that support competitive integrated employment or independent living. Referrals are based on each customer’s employment or education goals as outlined in their Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) or Independent Living Plan (ILP).

Respondent must affirm its intent to comply with the requirements as stated in Section 2.2 Specifications, and affirm that it will continue to comply with http://www.twc.texas.gov/

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 12 of 60 these requirements during the term of the Contract issued as a result of this

Solicitation, if any.

2.2 SPECIFICATIONS

2.2.1 Training Entity Responsibilities

a. Providing instructor-led short duration training events for VR customers. Training solutions may fall into the categories of Pre-

Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), Blind, Visually Impaired and/or Deafblind Services, Neurodevelopmental or Autism services, Deaf and Hard of Hearing or an “other” category as described below.

b. Providing training services that are designed to assist VR customers with disabilities to obtain knowledge and skills that prepare them to obtain, retain, or advance in competitive integrated employment or independent living, and may also prepare VR customers with the prerequisite knowledge, skills, and abilities to participate in postsecondary education, leading to competitive integrated employment.

c. Utilizing instructors who are knowledgeable and experienced in the subject matter contained in the curriculum, are appropriately degreed, licensed, certified, or otherwise qualified in the areas pertinent to the training services and have experience working with individuals with the disabilities for which the training is designed.

d. Utilizing curriculum and other training materials that are accessible and accommodating for the VR customer enrolled in the program.

e. Providing VR customers with effective instructional and technical support whether the training is conducted in-person or virtually.

f. Providing a primary point-of-contact (POC) for the contract who is knowledgeable about the contract requirements and training services.

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g. Administering pre-event and post-event surveys to address the customer’s level of knowledge prior to the training and following the training, the customer’s satisfaction with the training, including any comments made by the customer regarding the training. The format and contents of the surveys will be mutually agreed to by TWC and the training entity prior to the initial training courses.

h. Informing the VR customer’s assigned vocational rehabilitation counselor (VRC) or Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB) Service

Specialist, within forty-eight (48) hours of any dispute that arises between the VR customer and the entity regarding the training services, and the steps the entity has taken or is planning to take to resolve the issue.

2.2.2 Training Categories, Audience Served, Sample Activities, and

Instructor Qualifications

Training services may include, but are not limited to, the following types or a combination thereof. Sample activities are intended to indicate suggested areas of training and are not exhaustive.

2.2.2.1 Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)

For secondary or post-secondary students with disabilities (ages 14–22)

1. Sample Activities:

a. Career Exploration

b. Work-based learning experiences, which may include in-school or after-school opportunities and experiences outside of the traditional school setting

c. Counseling opportunities for enrollment in postsecondary educational programs

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d. Workplace readiness training to develop social skills and independent living skills

e. Instruction in self-advocacy

f. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)

Note: Responses will not be considered from current TWC-VR Pre-ETS contractors with enrollment contracts, who could otherwise provide the short duration training under the enrollment contract. Proposals may be considered from current TWC-VR Pre-ETS contractors where their contract is insufficient to provide the training (e.g., a venue must be secured).

2. Instructor Qualifications:

a. Possess a minimum of one (1) year of experience working directly with students with disabilities in a classroom setting, providing direct instruction and/or support to students and staff. This experience MUST be verified by official letters from previous employers on company letterhead. Each letter must include dates of employment, job title, a detailed description of relevant duties, and contact information for the employer; or

b. Possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Counseling, Vocational Rehabilitation, Education, or

Social Work.

Note: TWC-VR may request a copy of the instructor’s official transcript to verify the education requirement.

2.2.2.2 Blind, Visually Impaired and/or Deafblind Services

For VR customers with a primary disability of blindness, low vision, and/or who are deafblind.

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1. Sample Activities:

a. Orientation & Mobility Skills

b. Independent living skills (including IL for Older Individuals who are

Blind)

c. Occupational skills training, including employment-focused technology skills

d. Language and Communication Skills, including:

i. American Sign Language (ASL) proficiency

ii. Deafblind communication training

e. Braille proficiency

f. Technology and assistive technology training

g. Adjustment to Blindness Counseling

h. STEM

i. Business Enterprise Program operations

2. Instructor Qualifications:

A qualified trainer is an Independent Living (IL) Skills Trainer, Orientation

& Mobility (O&M) Instructor, Assistive Technology (AT) Trainer, or

Occupational Therapist (OT) possessing the qualifications below:

a. IL Skills Trainer Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a concentration in rehabilitation, education, psychology, or a related field with:

i. One (1) year of work experience in rehabilitation teaching, rehabilitation, or education of people with disabilities; or

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ii. Two (2) years of work experience in general education or another related field; and

iii. Experience providing individual, hands-on training to individuals who are blind, visually impaired, and/or deafblind customers

b. O&M Instructor Qualifications:

i. Certification from Academy for Certification of Vision

Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP) or National

Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB); or

ii. Degree in Orientation and Mobility (O&M) from an accredited college or university with an established O&M training curriculum; or

iii. Two (2) years of full-time experience teaching O&M skills for a

VR-recognized entity.

c. Trainer Qualifications:

i. High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED).

ii. At least six (6) months of full-time work experience providing direct customer services to individuals who are blind, deafblind, and/or visually impaired.

iii. Six (6) months of personal end-user experience with magnification or reader software (JAWS, ZoomText, Fusion) may substitute for work experience.

d. OT Qualifications:

i. Completion of a prescribed program of study in a professional field such as social work, occupational therapy, therapeutic recreation, or rehabilitation counseling; and

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ii. Maintain an Occupational Therapy license in good standing from the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE)

Notes:

• Exceptions may be granted based on demonstrated experience.

• TWC-VR may request official transcripts to verify education requirements.

2.2.3 Neurodevelopmental and Autism Services

For individuals with a primary diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder who have obtained a high school diploma or GED.

1. Sample Activities:

a. Work readiness training

b. Independent living skills

c. Assistive technology training

d. Occupational skills training, including employment-focused technology skills

e. Work-based learning

f. Disability-specific employment preparation and adaptive training

g. STEM

2. Instructor Qualifications:

a. Employment Specialist with verified UNTWISE Autism Endorsement

b. Certified Special Education teacher

c. Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP)

d. School Speech Pathologist

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Notes:

• Exceptions may be granted based on demonstrated experience.

• TWC-VR may request official transcripts.

2.2.4 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

For VR customers with a primary disability of deaf or hard of hearing over age 22 and primary mode of communication is sign language.

1. Sample Activities:

a. Occupational skills training, including employment-focused technology skills

b. Language and Communication Skills, including:

i. American Sign Language (ASL) proficiency

ii. How to utilize interpreting service and/or CART

c. Technology and assistive technology training

d. Disability-specific employment preparation and adaptive training

2. Instructor Qualifications:

a. State-certified teacher of deaf and hard of hearing

b. DHHS-approved specialist working in DHH-related field

c. proof of proficiency in sign language by providing documentation of certification from the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI), certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), or a Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) rating of intermediate plus.

Notes:

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• Exceptions may be granted based on demonstrated experience.

• TWC-VR may request official transcripts to verify education requirements.

2.2.5 “Other” Training

Disability-specific training services not included in categories 2.2.1–2.2.4.

1. Sample Activities:

a. Work readiness training

b. Independent living skills

c. Assistive technology training

d. Occupational skills training, including employment-focused technology skills

e. Work-based learning (paid/unpaid work experience, internships, pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships)

f. Disability-specific employment preparation and adaptive training

g. STEM

2. Instructor Qualifications:

To be assessed in conjunction with the training service offered and population serviced.

a. Contractor is precluded from maintaining waiting lists that indicate

TWC-VRD will sponsor the prospective customer.

b. Contractor is precluded from charging the customer directly for fees for services and is precluded from charging TWC for anything other than the contracted services.

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c. Non-TWC customers may attend training; fees charged to non-TWC customers are the entity’s prerogative and not TWC’s responsibility.

d. Offering training in one or multiple categories is allowable.

e. Contractors may propose modifications or new training within scope at renewal, no later than 120 days prior to renewal.

f. Payment may be prorated if services are partially delivered or not completed. TWC shall not be liable for services not received, verified, and accepted per the contract and SA requirements.

ARTICLE III SOLICITATION PROCESS

3.1 AUTHORITY

TWC is soliciting the goods and/or services stated in this Solicitation under the authority of Texas Government Code §§ 2156.121-2156.127.

All official communication (including, but not limited to, Schedule of Event changes, Addenda, and Questions and Answer documents) will be posted to the Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD). TWC has no responsibility to communicate personally with each potential Respondent for this procurement. Each interested party is solely responsible for checking the

ESBD for official TWC communication regarding this procurement.

3.2 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

The dates in this Schedule of Events are tentative, and TWC reserves the right to modify these dates at any time. At the sole discretion of TWC, events listed in the Schedule of Events are subject to changes and cancellation. Scheduling changes or cancellations made prior to the Deadline for Submission of Responses will be published as an Addendum posted to the ESBD.

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Table 2: Schedule of Events

Event Date and Time

Solicitation Posted to ESBD JUNE 12, 2026

Deadline for Submitting Questions or Requests for Clarification

Monday, June 22, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Central Time

Courtesy review deadline to submit the draft VetHUB Subcontracting

Plan.

Email: twchubinfo@twc.texas.gov

Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 5:00

PM Central Time

Deadline for TWC HUB to provide feedback of the draft VetHUB

Subcontracting Plan

Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Central Time

Deadline for Submission of

Response

NOTE: Responses must be

RECEIVED by TWC by the deadline.

July 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central

Time

Expected Contract Award AUGUST 2026

Respondent must submit its Response to TWC in accordance with the due date and time as indicated in this Table 2: Schedule of Events or as changed via an Addendum posted to the ESBD.

3.3 CONTRACT DOCUMENTS

The Contract(s) resulting from this solicitation may consist of the provisions in this solicitation (including its attachments, forms, exhibits, and any

Addenda); the Successful Respondent’s Response, any TWC Request for

Revised Response, the Successful Respondent’s Response to the Request for mailto:twchubinfo@twc.texas.gov

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Revised Response, and TWC’s Service Authorizations (SAs). No prior agreement or understanding, oral or otherwise, of the parties or their agents will be valid or enforceable unless embodied in these documents. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of these documents, the documents are given the following order of priority: (1) TWC SA; (2) most recent Request for Revised Response (if any); (3) Successful Respondent’s

Response to the Request for Revised Response or Best and Final Offer

(BAFO), if any; (4) Request for Proposal; and (5) Successful Respondent’s

Response.

TWC may elect to have the Contract(s) resulting from this Solicitation consist of a single document. This document will contain all rights and duties of the parties extracted from the relevant terms and conditions of the

Solicitation (including its attachments, forms, exhibits, and any Addenda), the Successful Respondent’s Response, the Request for Revised Response or

BAFO, if any, and Successful Respondent’s Response to the Request for

Revised Response or BAFO, if any. Prior to award, TWC will prepare the

Contract for review by the Successful Respondent.

Discussions may be had concerning possible revisions to the draft Contract to clarify points, further define Contract text, or to correct minor technicalities. These discussions are to be finalized and all requests for revisions resolved within ten (10) Business Days after the Successful

Respondent receives the draft Contract for review or such additional time that may be agreed to by TWC. If discussions are not finalized within such time frame, the Response may be rejected, and discussions may be initiated with the next highest scoring Respondent.

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3.4 ATTACHMENTS AND FORMS

Table 3: Attachments and Forms

Attachment/Form Title

Attachment 1 TWC VR Terms & Conditions

Attachment 2 VetHUB Subcontracting Plan Guide

Attachment 3 Progress Assessment Report (PAR)

Attachment 4 How to complete a PAR

Form 1 Execution of Response

Form 2 Cost Response

Form 3 Training Specifications Form

Form 4 References

Form 5 Financial Questionnaire

Form 6 Questions and Answers

Form 7 VetHub Subcontracting Plan (VetHSP)

1020 Form Substitute W-9 and Direct Deposit Form

3.5 SOLE POINT OF CONTACT

All requests, questions, or other communication about this Solicitation must be made in writing to PHS, addressed to the person listed below (Sole Point of Contact) with the Solicitation number in the subject line.

Corie Remschel CTCD, CTCM

Procurement Lead

VendorProposals@TWC.texas.gov see also, Section 3.5.2 Exceptions to the Sole Point of Contact below.

3.5.1 Prohibited Communication

Except as provided in Section 3.5 Sole Point of Contact (and Section 3.5.2

Exceptions to the Sole Point of Contact), all communication with TWC regarding this Solicitation is prohibited. Unless allowable, TWC, its mailto:VendorProposals@TWC.texas.gov

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 24 of 60 representative(s), and partners will not answer any questions or otherwise discuss the contents of this Solicitation with any potential Respondent or its representative(s). Attempts to ask questions by phone or in person will not be allowed or recognized as valid. Respondent shall rely only on written statements issued by or through TWC designated staff as provided by

Section 3.5 Sole Point of Contact.

Failure to comply with these restrictions may result in disqualification of Respondent's Response. These restrictions do not preclude discussions between affected parties for the purposes of conducting business unrelated to this Solicitation.

3.5.2 Exceptions to the Sole Point of Contact

Exceptions to Section 3.5 Sole Point of Contact are as follows:

a. A Respondent with questions relating to the HSP is permitted to direct those questions to the TWC VetHUB staff via email to:

TWCHUBinfo@twc.texas.gov

b. Where it is expressly directed by the Sole Point of Contact that another designated TWC representative may speak to the Respondent, such as during Contract negotiations. A Respondent is required to ensure that communications have been authorized by the Sole Point of Contact before engaging in any such communication. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in the disqualification of a Respondent’s

Response.

3.6 QUESTIONS/REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATION

TWC will allow written questions and requests for clarification regarding this

Solicitation. Questions must be submitted through the TWC Procurement

Portal to the Sole Point of Contact listed in Section 3.5 Sole Point of Contact by the deadline established in Section 3.2 Schedule of Events using Form 6 mailto:TWCHUBinfo@twc.texas.gov

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Questions and Answers. Include the Solicitation section and page number to which each question applies.

TWC will post all questions and answers and, if appropriate, an Amended

Solicitation to the ESBD. Responses to questions or other written requests for clarification will not be provided individually to prospective Respondents submitting questions.

TWC reserves the right to amend answers previously posted. Amended answers will be posted to the ESBD. It is the Respondent’s responsibility to check the ESBD. TWC also reserves the right to provide a single consolidated response to all similar questions at the agency’s sole discretion.

Questions or requests for clarification received after the deadline in Section

3.2 Schedule of Events may be reviewed by TWC but may not be answered.

Only TWC's written answers posted on ESBD, in accordance with this section, are binding.

Addenda

Should an addition or correction become necessary after the Solicitation is issued, an Addendum relating the necessary information will be posted to the ESBD. Respondents are responsible for periodically checking the ESBD for addenda or additional information. Respondents are required to acknowledge the Addenda by returning the signed Acknowledgment of Addenda with the Response. Failure to do so does not absolve a

Respondent from the requirements contained within any Addenda.

3.7 VETHUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN

Respondent must submit the VetHUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) in accordance with Section 4.5 Submission Method. The HSP should be labeled:

“VetHUB Subcontracting Plan,” and include all supporting documentation in accordance with Form 7 - VetHUB Subcontracting Plan. The TWC VetHUB goal is 6.50 percent for all other services contracts.

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The final HSP must be submitted with the Response by the deadline in

Section 3.2 Schedule of Events. Responses that do not include a completed

HUB Subcontracting Plan shall be rejected due to material failure to comply with Texas Government Code § 2161.252(b).

3.7.1 HSP Courtesy Review

A courtesy review of a Respondent’s completed HSP by TWC is optional and is available upon request to assist Respondent in providing a compliant and responsive HSP. This courtesy review may only identify possible deficiencies, and a final compliant determination cannot be provided until the Response is submitted.

To request a courtesy review, submit the completed HSP, including all supporting documentation, in a PDF format by e-mail to the TWC VetHUB

Program Office by or before the Courtesy Review of VetHUB Subcontracting

Plan Deadline in Section 3.2 Schedule of Events.

E-Mail for Courtesy Review: TWCHUBINFO@twc.texas.gov

E-mail Subject Line: HSP Courtesy Review, Solicitation No.

3202600171 Short Duration Training Events for VR Customers

Due Date: In accordance with the deadline in Section 3.2 Schedule of

Events.

HSPs received after the courtesy review deadline in Section 3.2 Schedule of

Events will not be processed. A response regarding the HSP will be provided at least ten (10) days prior to the Response deadline in Section 3.2 Schedule of Events, allowing enough time to rectify any potential deficiencies for the final HSP submission.

3.7.2 VetHUB Progress Assessment Report (PAR)

The Successful Respondent will be required to submit a monthly VetHUB

Progress Assessment Report (PAR) along with itemized invoices for the mailto:TWCHUBINFO@twc.texas.gov

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 27 of 60 monthly reporting, no later than the 5th day of each month for the entire life of the contract. This is in accordance with Texas Administrative Code, Title

34, Part 1, Chapter 20, Subchapter D, Rule §20.284 (d)(2)(H)-(I).

Submission is required whether there is any subcontracting to report or not.

The PAR is a condition of payment. Failure to submit timely may, delay or place the payment on hold.

Failure to adhere to these requirements is a breach of contract and may include debarment from all State of Texas contracting.

3.7.3 Subcontracting Opportunities

TWC finds that this contract contains subcontracting opportunities in the following service area. However, you are not restricted to these trades only.

NIGP Codes:

*204-29 Data/File Security Hardware/Software, to Include Encryption

*208-32 Customer Relationship Management Software (CRM), Microcomputer

470-54 Orientation or Navigational Aids for the Disabled

918-25 Compliance Consulting, Including American Disabilities Act (ADA)

920-91 Training, Computer Based, Software Supported

924-16 Course Development Services, Instructional and Training

924-40 Instructor-led, Classroom Training, Technical

924-41 Instructor-led, Classroom Training, Non-Technical

936–45 Hearing Devices, Aids, Auditory Training Equipment, etc.

952-90 Training and Instruction Services, Clients, Not Staff

956-85 Training Material Subscriptions

958-74 Human Resources Management Services

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 28 of 60

961-20 Customer Service Evaluation Services

961-92 Interpreter Services for American Sign Language and other forms of sign language for deaf/hard of hearing whose first language is sign language

961-93 Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) as further explained here in the ADA Requirements for Effective Communication and

Closed Captioning for Broadcast Television/Webcasts

990-48 Identity Theft Protection and Data Security Services

CMBL Instructions:

Locate a list of VetHUB subcontractors on the Centralized Masters Bidders

List (CMBL) at: https://comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/vendor/cmbl/

a. Select: VetHUBs Only,

b. Multiple Vendor Search,

c. Enter: NIGP Class / Item Code

d. Highway District #, click on Search.

ARTICLE IV RESPONSE SUBMISSION

INSTRUCTIONS

4.1 DEADLINE

Responses must be received by PS as prescribed no later than the date and time specified in Section 3.2 Schedule of Events.

Responses received after the deadline specified in Section 3.2 Schedule of

Events will be rejected and will not be evaluated or considered for Contract award. TWC is not responsible for Responses submitted late, illegible, incomplete, or otherwise considered disqualified due to failure of electronic equipment or operator error.

https://comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/vendor/cmbl/

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 29 of 60

4.2 GENERAL INFORMATION

Respondent must fully and completely address all requirements described in this Solicitation. Incomplete or partial Responses will not be considered. The

Respondent must provide all information that the Respondent believes would be helpful to TWC in evaluating the Respondent’s ability to fulfill the

Solicitation requirements. Respondent shall prepare a Response that clearly and concisely represents its qualifications and capabilities.

4.3 RESPONSE FORMAT

The Response to this Solicitation must:

a. Be responsive to all Solicitation requirements;

b. Be in the 8 1/2" by 11" paper layout;

c. Be clearly legible; and

d. Be presented using font type Verdana or Arial, font size 12-point, with one (1) inch margins and 1.25 line spacing; the sole 12-point font size exception is no less than size 10 point for tables, graphs, and appendices.

4.4 DISCREPANCIES

In the event of any discrepancies or variations between copies, TWC is under no obligation to resolve the inconsistencies and may make its scoring and selection decision, accordingly, including the decision to potentially disqualify a Response. If Respondent fails to designate an “Original” Response as required by Section 4.5 Submission Method, TWC in its sole discretion, will determine the version to be used as the original or may disqualify the

Response. If the Respondent submits a redacted Response as the “Original,”

TWC will disqualify the Response, and it will not be evaluated.

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 30 of 60

TWC will not accept submissions after the Response due date in Section 3.2

Schedule of Events to remedy discrepancies or variations in Response submissions.

4.5 SUBMISSION METHOD

TWC has implemented the eProcurement platform referred to as the TWC

Procurement Portal. Respondent must upload all documentation indicated to the TWC PROCUREMENT PORTAL link on the “Open Opportunities” tab.

Submissions by any other method will not be accepted.

To respond to this Solicitation, Respondents must register through the TWC

Procurement Portal website. There is no charge to register.

Step-by-step instructions are available at: Vendor Registration –

Procurement.

For a quick tutorial through the registration and submission process, visit:

Submissions – Procurement.

Any issues with uploading must first be addressed with the TWC

Procurement Portal Technical Support at the contact information included in the Procurement Information Summary and TWC Procurement Portal

Instructions to Respondents document.

Respondents must contact the Sole Point of Contact prior to the deadline if there are issues with using the TWC Procurement Portal and an alternative submission method may be required. Failure to contact the Sole Point of

Contact well before the deadline to make alternative arrangements will disqualify any subsequent Response submission.

In no event will TWC be responsible or liable for any delay or error in delivery. TWC is not responsible for electronic submissions that are captured, blocked, filtered, quarantined or otherwise prevented from https://procurement-help.eunasolutions.com/hc/en-us/sections/48366912105235-Vendor-Registration https://procurement-help.eunasolutions.com/hc/en-us/sections/48366912105235-Vendor-Registration https://procurement-help.eunasolutions.com/hc/en-us/sections/48367002918163-Submissions

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 31 of 60 reaching the proper destination server by any TWC anti-virus or other security software.

It is the Respondent’s responsibility to appropriately mark and upload the

Proposal to the TWC Procurement Portal by the specified date. Each

Respondent is solely responsible for ensuring its Proposal is submitted in accordance with all Solicitation requirements and ensuring timely receipt by

TWC.TWC is not responsible for electronic submissions that are captured, blocked, filtered, quarantined or otherwise prevented from reaching the proper destination server by any TWC anti-virus or other security software.

To confirm receipt of all electronic submissions, Respondent should request a confirmation by e-mail.

Hard copies received will not be accepted or reviewed.

It is the Respondent’s responsibility to appropriately mark and deliver the

Response to the TWC Procurement Portal by the specified date. Each

Respondent is solely responsible for ensuring its Response is submitted in accordance with all Solicitation requirements and ensuring timely receipt by

TWC. In no event will TWC be responsible or liable for any delay or error in delivery. Response must be RECEIVED by TWC by the

Response Deadline identified in Section 3.2 Schedule of Events.

4.6 REQUIREMENTS SUBMISSION

Table 4: Required Forms and Submission Documents

Document Name

Narrative Proposal (Section 4.6.3.2)

Form 1 Execution of Response (Section 4.6.2)

Form 2 Cost Response (Section 4.8)

Form 3 Training Specifications Form (Section 4.9)

Form 4 References (Section 4.7)

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 32 of 60

Document Name

Form 5 Financial Questionnaire (Section 4.11)

Form 7 VetHUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) (Section 3.8)

4.6.1 Executive Summary

Respondent must provide an Executive Summary of their Response

(excluding cost information) that asserts the Respondent is providing, in its

Response, all the requirements of this Solicitation, including Section Article

II Scope of work. The Executive Summary must demonstrate Respondent’s understanding of TWC goals and objectives for this Solicitation.

If the Respondent is providing goods and/or services beyond those specifically requested, those goods and/or services must be identified. If the

Respondent is offering goods and/or services that do not meet the specific requirements of this Solicitation, but in the opinion of the Respondent are equivalent or superior to those specifically requested, any such differences must be noted in the Executive Summary. The Respondent should realize, however, that failure to provide the goods and/or services specifically requested may result in disqualification.

The Executive Summary must not exceed two (2) pages and should represent a full and concise summary of the contents of the Response.

4.6.2 Execution of Response

Respondent must complete, sign, and return Form 1- Execution of

Response. By signing, Respondent agrees to provide the goods and/or services described in this Solicitation and agrees to abide by all TWC Terms and Conditions as specified in this Solicitation and in resulting Contract. A

Response without the required signatures is not responsive to the

Solicitation and will be disqualified.

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 33 of 60

Unsigned Responses will not be evaluated; these Responses will be kept with the procurement file and not be returned to the Respondent.

4.6.3 Respondent Organization Information

Respondent must include the following information with their Response.

4.6.3.1 Respondent Point of Contact

Respondent must provide the name, address, and telephone number of

Respondent’s point of contact for any questions regarding the Response and, if different than the point of contact for questions about the Response, the name, address, and telephone number of Respondent’s point of contact for any resulting Contract.

4.6.3.2 Respondent Organization Narrative

Respondent must provide a detailed narrative explaining why it is qualified to provide the services enumerated in Article II Scope of Work, focusing on key strengths and competitive advantages.

Respondent must describe its knowledge and experience in providing training event services to comparable clients of similar size and complexity to TWC. The Organization Narrative must not exceed four (4) pages.

4.6.3.3 Organization Profile

NOTE: Texas governmental entities are exempt from this requirement.

Respondent must provide an organizational profile, including:

a. Ownership structure (e.g., corporation, partnership, LLC, or sole proprietorship), including any wholly owned subsidiaries, affiliated companies, or joint ventures. (Please provide this information both in a narrative and as a graphical representation.)

1. If Respondent is an affiliate of or has a joint venture or strategic alliance with another company, Respondent must

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 34 of 60 identify the percentage of ownership of each joint venture member or affiliate and the percentage of the parent company’s ownership. The entity performing the majority of the work under any resulting Contract, throughout the duration of the Contract, must be the primary Respondent.

2. Finally, Respondent must provide its proposed operating structure for the services requested under this Solicitation and which entities (i.e., parent company, affiliate, joint venture, subcontractor) will be performing the services.

b. The year the company was founded and/or incorporated. If incorporated, please indicate the state where the company is incorporated and the date of incorporation;

c. The location of company headquarters and any field office(s) that may provide services for any resulting Contract;

d. The number of employees in the company, both locally and nationally, and the location(s) from which employees will be assigned to TWC’s project; and

e. An indication of whether the company has ever been in contract with any Texas state agency. If “Yes,” specify the agency name, contract term, and the scope of work for that contract.

4.6.4 Project Work Plan

Respondent must describe the proposed processes and methodologies for providing all components described in Article II Scope of Work, including its approach to meeting the project schedule. Respondent should identify all tasks to be performed, including all project activities, materials and other products, services, and reports to be generated during the Contract period and relate them to the stated purpose(s) and specifications described in this

Solicitation.

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 35 of 60

4.6.5 Key Personnel

Respondent must discuss and provide information for the individual(s) who will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day performance and services.

Provide staffing profiles and resumes for all key personnel who will be assigned to the Contract that demonstrates their ability to perform the services specified in the Solicitation.

4.7 REFERENCES

Respondent must provide a minimum of three (3) references in the format set forth in Form 4 - References and should also provide any canceled contract reference as applicable. These references must relate to similar contracts or projects performed as described in Section 2.2 Specifications within the last five (5) years, and it is preferable they be from state, federal, and/or local governmental entities.

4.7.1 Similar Contracts

Each Respondent shall provide descriptions for a minimum of three (3) engagements of comparable complexity and sensitivity to the requirements of this Solicitation that have been conducted within the past five (5) years.

The description of comparable engagements shall be detailed and cover the contracts the Respondent and any Subcontractors have had and all experience similar to this Contract that qualifies the Respondent to meet the requirements of this Contract, including, but not limited to:

a. Size of contract (including value);

b. Reason for contract termination/expiration, if contract is no longer in effect;

c. Types of services directly provided by the Respondent and whether the

Respondent was the contractor or Subcontractor;

d. Term and type of contract, including effective dates; and

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 36 of 60

e. Any problems encountered.

4.7.2 Contract Performance

The Respondent shall state whether or not any of the following have occurred during the last five (5) years:

a. The Respondent has had a contract terminated, and, if so, shall provide full details, including the other party’s name, address, and telephone number on Form 4 - References.

b. The Respondent has been assessed any remedies, including liquidated damages or other such monetary remedies, under any existing or past contracts, and, if so, note the reason for and the amount assessed or paid for each incident.

c. The Respondent was the subject of (i) any threatened, pending, or resolved disciplinary action for substandard work and/or unethical practices; or (ii) any order, judgment or decree of any federal or state authority barring, suspending or otherwise limiting the right of the

Respondent to engage in any business, practice, or activity.

d. The Respondent has been involved in any civil or criminal litigation and/or entered into any compromise agreement, settlement agreement, or resulting consent decree or judgements, if applicable, related to contract performance, the goods and/or services sought by this Solicitation, or that a reasonable person knowledgeable of the applicable industry would consider relevant to the work under the

Contract. Respondents are not required to violate any confidentiality provision but must provide information not prohibited from disclosure.

4.8 COST RESPONSE

In accordance with Section 4.9 Cost Response, the Respondent shall submit a separate Cost Proposal for each training course for which they are

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 37 of 60 proposing services. Each Cost Proposal must be submitted as a file named

“Cost Proposal” and contain the Respondent’s cost information in the format included in Form 2 - Cost Response. (If you are submitting costs services for more than one training course, submit one Cost

Response Form per training.)

Cost information must be included as a separate document and presented only in the format set forth in Form 2 - Cost Response.

Respondent must state pricing for all goods and/or services rendered during the course of any awarded Contract, including any and all costs involved that are to be paid or reimbursed by TWC during the initial contract period and any renewal or extension periods. No reimbursement is available to the

Successful Respondent beyond the amount agreed to be paid for the goods and/or services provided. Pricing agreed to in any resulting Contract shall be firm and remain constant through the life of the Contract (unless a Price

Adjustment is permitted in accordance with Section 6.3).

The Cost Proposal provided is for the goods and/or services as specified in this Solicitation and shall include any and all materials and training services necessary to provide the goods and/or services according to the minimum specifications, requirements, provisions, and Terms and Conditions set forth in this Solicitation.

4.9 TRAINING SPECIFICATIONS

In accordance with Section 4.9 Training Specifications, the Respondent shall submit a separate Training Specifications form for each training course for which they are proposing services. Each Training Specification form must be submitted as a file named “Training Specifications Form” and contain the

Respondent’s training information in the format included in Form 3 –

Training Specifications. (If you are proposing services for more than

RFP No. 3202600171 Page 38 of 60 one training course, submit one Training Specifications Form per training course.)

4.10 OFFERED OPTIONS

TWC does not intend to limit the creativity of Respondents from bringing forward new…