FY27 COL Youth AI Workforce Training RFP 8.19.26~1.pdf

CITY OF LAWRENCE YOUTH AI WORKFORCE TRAINING SERVICES

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP Timeline:

Request for Proposals Released Wednesday, August 19, 2026 Bidder’s Conference (virtual)

Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 1:00PM EST Deadline for Submission of Written Questions Tuesday, September 22, 2026, by 11:00AM EST

Proposal Submission Deadline Thursday, October 1, 2026, by 11:00AM EST

MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board One Union Street –

Suite 202 Lawrence, MA 01840

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

AI TRAINING

MASSHIRE MERRIMACK VALLEY

WORKFORCE BOARD

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Request for Proposal: PAGE

I. Background Information 3 II. Scope of Services 3-8 III. Funds Available 8 IV. Proposal Provisions and Requirements 9-12 Attachment A Attachments List 13 Attachment B Program Proposal Checklist 14 Attachment C Program Proposal Cover Sheet 15 Attachment D Program Narrative 16-18 Attachment E Program Performance Measures and Long-Term Outcomes 19-20 Attachment F Price Proposal Contents Checklist 21 Attachment G Price Proposal Cover Sheet 22 Attachment H Minimum Qualifying Criteria Checklist 23 Attachment I Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers 24-25 Attachment J Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers 26 Attachment K Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters Primary Covered Transactions 27 Attachment L Drug Free Workplace Certification 28 Attachment M Certificate of Non-Collusion 29 Attachment N Audit Certifications 30 Attachment O Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination 31 Attachment P Certificate of Good Standing 32 Attachment Q Budget & Budget Instructions 33-37 Attachment T: Attachment T: MMVWB/City of Lawrence Terms, Conditions & Assurances 38-50 Attachment R Contract Negotiation 51

I. Background Information & Purpose

The MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB) is soliciting proposals from qualified organizations, educational institutions, employers, and collaborative partnerships to design and implement innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) workforce development programs that prepare residents for employment in emerging AI-related occupations and support employers in adopting AI technologies. This initiative is funded exclusively through an appropriation by the City of Lawrence and is not funded through WIOA or any other federal workforce development funding.

The City of Lawrence provides the funding for this initiative, and the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB) administers the funds, conducts the procurement process, and monitors the performance of selected providers.

Selected providers will be responsible for delivering approved workforce development services in accordance with the requirements of this RFP and any resulting agreement.

Priority shall be given to proposals serving residents and employers located within the City of Lawrence. Programs should increase access to high-quality training opportunities that lead to industry-recognized credentials, employment, wage progression, and career advancement in occupations impacted by Artificial Intelligence.

About the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB)

The MMVWB is one of 16 Workforce Boards throughout Massachusetts, servicing the communities of Andover, Amesbury, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Rowley, Salisbury, and West Newbury. The MMVWB is composed of knowledgeable and influential business and community leaders who are appointed by the Mayor of Lawrence on behalf of the fifteen communities that make up the region. As a regional entity, we work closely with our local municipalities to bolster economic development and employment and to provide businesses in our region with the best trained workforce possible. The board serves as the oversight and policy-making body for federally funded employment and training services in the region. The board also has the broader role of addressing critical labor market issues and developing strategic partnerships with local leaders in economic development, the K-12 and higher education system, government agencies, chambers of commerce, community-based and labor organizations.

II. Scope of Services Artificial Intelligence Workforce Development Initiative

1. Scope of Services The successful proposer(s) shall provide comprehensive workforce development services that include, but are not limited to, the following:

A. Recruitment and Outreach Develop and implement a comprehensive outreach strategy designed to recruit eligible participants, with emphasis on underserved populations and individuals experiencing barriers to employment.

Recruitment activities should include:

• Community outreach

• Employer outreach

• Information sessions

• Collaboration with community-based organizations

• Digital and social media marketing

Referrals from workforce system partners B. Assessment and Enrollment Conduct comprehensive participant assessments to determine:

• Career interests

• Employment goals

• Educational background

• Digital literacy

• Existing AI knowledge

• Supportive service needs

• Employment barriers

Develop Individual Employment Plans (IEPs) or Individual Service Strategies (ISS) that identify participant goals and required services.

C. Target Population and Eligibility Primary population would be:

• Eligible Participants o Lawrence Residents o Ages 18-25 o Meeting any additional eligibility requirements established by the City appropriation;

o priority may be given to individuals with barriers to employment, low income, limited access to technology, English language learners, etc.

• Priority to youth who are:

o Low-income;

o Economically disadvantaged;

o English language learners;

o Lacking access to technology;

o Interested in technology, business, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, finance, or other occupations increasingly utilizing AI.

o Participants should demonstrate a genuine interest in completing the training.

D. Intensive Case Management Provide ongoing case management throughout program participation, including:

• Career coaching

• Academic advising

• Goal setting

• Progress monitoring

• Barrier mitigation

• Supportive service coordination

• Employer engagement

• Retention services Participants shall receive individualized support designed to maximize successful completion and employment outcomes.

E. Artificial Intelligence Training

Provide industry-relevant training that prepares participants for careers utilizing Artificial Intelligence technologies.

Training may include:

• AI Fundamentals

• Prompt Engineering

• Generative AI

• Machine Learning Fundamentals

• Data Analytics

• Cybersecurity

• Cloud Computing

• Digital Productivity Tools

• Responsible AI

• AI Ethics

• AI Applications within Healthcare, Manufacturing, Business, Finance, Education, and Public Service

• Demonstrated competency in using applicable AI tools;

• Hands-on application of AI technologies;

• Development of a portfolio, project, or other tangible demonstration of acquired AI skills;

• Application of AI skills to real-world workplace scenarios;

• Responsible and ethical use of AI;

• Exposure to AI applications in occupations relevant to regional employers.

Programs should include hands-on learning experiences whenever possible.

F. Career Readiness Deliver career readiness activities including:

• Resume development

• Interview preparation

• Workplace professionalism

• Digital communication

• Teamwork

• Financial literacy

• Time management

• Workplace expectations

• Job search strategies

G. Work-Based Learning Provide paid and/or unpaid work experiences aligned with participants' career goals.

Tier 1 – Career Exposure

• Employer Presentations

• AI demonstrations

• Career Panels

• Company/business visits

Tier 2 – Job Shadowing

• One or two day employer experiences

• Workplace observation

• Career exploration

Tier 3 – Project Based Learning

• Participants Complete real-world project based on employer-identified problems or scenarios

Tier 4 – Internship

• Paid or unpaid internships consistent with applicable federal and state labor requirements.

Tier 5 – Employment/Apprenticeship

• Direct connections to employment, apprenticeship, or other career opportunities.

H. Industry Credentials Programs shall prepare participants to earn one or more recognized industry credentials appropriate to the training provided.

Examples include:

• Microsoft AI Fundamentals (AI-900)

• Google AI Essentials

• AWS Cloud Practitioner

• IBM AI Foundations

• CompTIA certifications Other employer-recognized credentials I. Job Placement Providers shall actively assist participants in obtaining unsubsidized employment through:

• Employer partnerships

• Hiring events

• Interview coordination

• Direct referrals

• Job matching Placement assistance

J. Follow-Up Services Provide follow-up services for a minimum of twelve (12) months after program exit.

Follow-up activities should include:

• Employment retention

• Career coaching

• Wage progression

• Additional training referrals

• Supportive services

• Employer communication K. Employer Engagement The selected provider shall establish meaningful partnerships with employers by:

• Identifying workforce needs

• Assisting employers with AI adoption

• Developing work-based learning opportunities

• Creating internship opportunities

• Supporting incumbent worker upskilling where appropriate L. Required Deliverables The selected provider shall:

• Recruit eligible participants

• Enroll participants

• Deliver AI training

• Provide intensive case management

• Coordinate work experiences

• Facilitate credential attainment

• Assist participants in obtaining employment

• Maintain participant records

• Submit all required fiscal and performance reports

• Participate in monitoring conducted by MMVWB

• Maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations

M. Performance Expectations Core Performance Measures

• Number of Lawrence youth enrolled

• Training completion rate

• Credential/certificate attainment rate

• Work-based learning participation rate

• Internship/work experience participation rate

• Employment or postsecondary placement rate

• Employment retention rate

• Participant satisfaction

• Employer satisfaction

• Number of employer partnerships

Long-Term Outcome Reporting

• Employment/education status at 2nd quarter after exit

• Employment/education status at 4th quarter after exit

• Median earnings, where available

N. Collaboration Collaborative proposals are strongly encouraged. Partnerships may include:

• Institutions of higher education

• Career and technical education providers

• Community-based organizations

• Employers

• Industry associations

• Labor organizations

• Economic development organizations

• Adult education providers

O. Incentive Payments The MMVWB will require incentive payments of up to $350 per youth for training-related activities. In the budget section you will be asked to provide five (5) training-related benchmarks, goals, achievements of milestones, and criteria to evaluate and calculate the incentive payments. Each training-related benchmark will be paid as follows: benchmarks 1 through 4 $75.00 each and benchmark 5 at $50.00. Incentive payments to youth will be paid by the prospective bidder through the cost reimbursement contract with the MMVWB/City of Lawrence.

Incentive Benchmarks:

• Enrollment/orientation completed — $75

• AI training milestone completed — $75

• Credential milestone — $75

• Work-based learning milestone — $75

• Final employment/career-readiness milestone — $50

P. Stipend Payments The MMVWB will require stipend payments to youth participants at a rate of $15.00 per hour for in-person classroom participation and program activities. These stipends will be paid by the MMVWB/City of Lawrence, but the prospective bidder should include these costs in their budget.

III. Funding The MMVWB anticipates awarding one or more contracts totaling up to $100,000, subject to the availability of funds. The Board reserves the right to:

• Make multiple awards;

• Negotiate the scope of services and budget with selected proposer(s);

• Fund all or a portion of any proposal;

• Reject any or all proposals if determined to be in the best interest of the MMVWB.

IV. Proposal Provisions and Requirements

RFP Timeline

DATE ACTIVITY

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 Request for Proposals Released Tuesday, September 8, 2026 Bidder’s Conference (virtual) @ 1:00 PM EST Tuesday, September 22, 2026 Deadline for Submission of Written Questions by 11:00AM EST Thursday, October 1, 2026 Proposals Submission Deadline by 11:00AM EST Wednesday October 28, 2026 Bidders Notified of Outcome after Board Approval Monday, November 30, 2026 Contract Start Date

Proposals must be completed and submitted in accordance with the Proposal Provisions & Requirements section.

The applicant is solely responsible for ensuring that their proposals are received by the specified date and time, otherwise, the proposal will be rejected.

Submission Date and Requirements All proposals and modifications must be submitted by email to procurement@masshiremvwb.org no later than Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 11:00AM EST.

In the body of your email, attach the following two files:

1) AI Training RFP Program Proposal 10.1.2026 – Attachments C thru E

2) AI Training RFP Price Proposal 10.1.2026 – Attachments F thru O

Please make sure that your total of both files does not exceed 24MB, as the email will bounce back. If your files are over 24MB, please split them up into separate files and send it in separate emails.

When you submit the proposals, you will receive an automated reply acknowledging receipt. If you don’t receive an automated reply, please contact Matt Robert at (978) 995-2784 during regular business hours, Monday to Friday between 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Please note that we will not accept hand delivered or mailed proposals.

Proposals must be completed and submitted in accordance with the Proposal Provisions & Requirements section of this RFP. The applicant is solely responsible for assuring that anything sent to MMVWB arrives by the specified date and time, otherwise, the proposal will be rejected.

mailto:procurement@masshiremvwb.org

Notification and Distribution

The RFP will be released on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, on the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board’s website, www.MassHireMVWB.org. Information relating to the RFP, including updates, amendments, minutes of the Bidders’ Conference, and responses to questions submitted by email, will be posted on the website. Prospective bidders are responsible for monitoring the website for updates; MMVWB will not send individual notification of updates directly to applicants.

Bidders’ Conference/ RFP Questions and Answers A Bidders’ Conference will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, via Zoom at 1:00 PM. All interested parties are strongly encouraged to participate.

Zoom Meeting Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8462116073?pwd=1IqsaYnAmqq9RK7ZXpdXUbVFKDa1Al.1&omn=824147420 Meeting ID: 846 211 6073 Passcode: 102102

To maintain a competitive bidding process, substantive questions related to this RFP will be addressed.

Questions must be submitted via email to mrobert@masshiremvwb.org beginning August 19th and no later than September 22th, 2026, by 11:00AM EST. All questions and answers will be posted to the MMVWB website by 4:00PM EST on Tuesday, September 29th, 2026.

Notification of Awards

The MMVWB Proposal Review sub-committee will score and rank the proposals. The sub-committee will consist of Board Directors, Youth Committee members and MMVWB staff. Those recommendations shall then be made to the Planning/Career Center Committee and subsequently to the full Board for final approval. MMVWB staff will then notify the approved vendors with a letter indicating award of grant.

Vendors who have not been selected for funding will also be notified at this time. It is anticipated that award notifications will be made by Wednesday, October 28, 2026, with contract operations estimated to begin on Monday, November 30, 2026, contingent upon successful contract negotiation.

MMVWB and Proposer’s Rights/Appeal Procedures

A. The release of this RFP does not constitute an acceptance of any offer, nor does its release in any way obligate the MMVWB to execute a contract with any bidder. The MMVWB reserves the right to accept or reject any offers on the basis of the general conditions set forth in this RFP, and to evaluate all accepted proposals on the criteria in this RFP.

B. The MMVWB issues this RFP with the explicit understanding that minor and major changes may be made, up to and including the option to rescind this RFP in its entirety, if in the best interest of the

MMVWB.

http://www.masshiremvwb.org/ https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8462116073?pwd=1IqsaYnAmqq9RK7ZXpdXUbVFKDa1Al.1&omn=82414742099 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8462116073?pwd=1IqsaYnAmqq9RK7ZXpdXUbVFKDa1Al.1&omn=82414742099 mailto:mrobert@masshiremvwb.org

C. The MMVWB reserves the right to negotiate the final terms of all contracts with successful vendors.

Items that may be negotiated include but are not limited to type and scope of services, costs and prices, schedule of services, target groups, geographic goals, and service levels.

D. Following the competitive procurement process, all proposals become public records.

Minimum Qualifying Criteria In order to be considered for funding, the following must be completed and submitted with your original price proposal only. Failure to complete these certifications and affidavits will result in your proposal not being considered for funding.

• Content Check List (Price Proposal) – Attachment F

• Signed Price Proposal Cover Sheet – Attachment G

• Minimum Qualifying Document – Attachment H

• Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers (If Applicable) – Attachment I

• Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers (If Applicable) – Attachment J

• Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters – Attachment K

• Drug Free Workplace Certification – Attachment L

• Certificate of Non-Collusion – Attachment M

• Audit Assurance Certification – Attachement N

• Commitment to Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination – Attachment O

• Certificate of Good Standing – Attachment P

• Completed Budget & Budget Narrative – Attachment Q

Rule for Award The MMVWB will select the most advantageous proposal(s) from a responsive and responsible bidder(s), taking into consideration all evaluation and price criteria. The MMVWB anticipates sending awards or non-award notifications by Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

MMVWB Proposal Review A. Program and Price Proposal MMVWB Fiscal Administrator will first review all proposals to determine if the minimum qualifying criteria has been met. Proposals that do not meet the Minimum Qualifying Criteria will not be considered for funding. If minimum-qualifying criteria have been met, proposals will then be reviewed for program costs.

Proposed costs will be compared with similar costs proposed by other bidders, as well as historical data available (i.e., current, or previously funded contracts). Results will be documented.

Program proposals will be reviewed and rated by a sub-committee of MMVWB Board Directors, Youth Committee members and MMVWB Staff. The program proposal narrative has five (5) parts, and the price proposal has one (1). Proposals will be rated according to a point system. The maximum total any proposal may receive is 100 points. Each part is awarded as follows:

Organizational Capacity and Experience 15 points Program Design and Service Delivery 30 points Artificial Intelligence Training Model 15 points Employer Engagement and Partnerships 15 points Performance Management ad Outcomes 5 points Budget and Budget Narrative 20 points

Complete proposals received by the submission deadline and that meet all requirements will be reviewed by the Proposal Review subcommittee. The sub-committee shall utilize the evaluation criteria noted in the Program Proposal section and identified in the MMVWB COL Youth AI Workforce Training Proposal Rating Criteria. Proposals will be given an overall rating of Highly Advantageous, Advantageous, Not Advantageous, or Unacceptable based on the points awarded. The overall scoring and overall rating break down as follows:

85 to 100 points Highly Advantageous 70 to 84 points Advantageous 50 to 69 points Not Advantageous Less than 50 points Unacceptable

Proposals with an overall rating of Highly Advantageous or Advantageous will be considered for funding. Proposals receiving a rating of Not Advantageous or Unacceptable will not be considered.

B. Final Funding Final funding decisions will take into consideration the results of the program and price proposal reviews, an adequate mix of the various types of services to be made available and an equitable distribution of funds and services to youth. The MMVWB reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to not fund any or all proposals, and/or to partially fund any and all proposals as submitted in response to this RFP. All proposals become the property of the MMVWB/City of Lawrence.

A. Attachments List

Program Proposal

B. Contents Checklist (Program Proposal) C. Program Proposal Cover Sheet D. Program Proposal Narrative Questions E. Program Performance Measures and Long-Term

Outcomes

Price Proposal

F. Contents Checklist G. Price Proposal Cover Sheet H. Minimum Qualifying Criteria I. Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers/ Affidavit of Compliance J. Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers K. Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and other Responsibility Matters Primary

Covered Transactions L. Drug Free Workplace Certification M. Certificate of Non-Collusion N. Audit Certification O. Commitment to Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination P. Certificate of Good Standing Q. Budget & Budget Narrative Instructions

Budget Completed Budget Narrative Completed Indirect Rate included (if applicable)

Other Attachments

R. Contract Negotiation – Policies required upon Award

Attachment B

Program Proposal Checklist

MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board

City of Lawrence Youth AI Workforce Training - FY 2027

Cover Sheet

Each section fully completed

Signed by authorized signatory

Proposal Narrative

Program Design

Outreach & Recruitment Program Outcomes

Administration

Program Operation

Signature of Authorized Representative for Your Organization:

Submitted By: Signature

Attachment C Program Proposal Cover Sheet

City of Lawrence Youth AI Workforce Training - FY 2027

Organization:

Mailing Address:

Contact Person:

Telephone:

Email Address:

City/Towns to Be Served:

Project Performance Goals: (must complete – fill in all yellow)

Performance Measure Proposed Performance Goal

Lawrence Youth Enrollment

Training Completion Rate

Credential/Certificate Attainment Rate

Work-Based Learning Participation Rate

Internship/Work Experience Participation Rate

Employment/Postsecondary Placement Rate

Employment Retention Rate

Participant Satisfaction

Employer Satisfaction

Employer Partnerships

Attachment D Program Narrative

NARRATIVE PROPOSAL

Organizational Information:

Name of Organization/Principal:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone:

Email:

Organizational Capacity and Experience

• Describe your organization's qualifications and experience administering workforce development, education, or training programs. Include:

o Organizational history and mission o Relevant experience serving similar populations o Experience administering federal, state, or workforce-funded grants o Experience delivering technology, digital skills, or Artificial Intelligence training o Staffing structure and key personnel assigned to this project o Organizational strengths that position you for success

• Vendor Past Performance o Number enrolled;

o Number completing;

o Completion rate;

o Number earning credentials;

o Employment rate;

o Postsecondary education rate;

o Retention rate, if available;

o Average wage at placement;

o Number receiving internships/work experiences;

o Number hired by participating employers;

o Employer satisfaction;

o Participant satisfaction;

o Number of similar youth programs operated;

o Funding source and amount of comparable contracts

Program Design and Service Delivery

• Describe how your organization will implement the Scope of Services outlined in Section II. Include your approach to:

o Recruitment and outreach o Assessment and enrollment o Individual Employment Plans (IEPs) or Individual Service Strategies (ISS) o Intensive case management o Artificial Intelligence training o Career readiness services o Work-based learning o Industry credential attainment o Job placement o Twelve-month follow-up services

Artificial Intelligence Training Model

• Describe the proposed AI training program, including:

o Curriculum and instructional approach o AI topics to be covered o Hands-on learning opportunities o Delivery method (in-person, virtual, hybrid) o Industry-recognized credentials offered o Instructor qualifications o Methods for ensuring curriculum remains current with industry trends

Employer Engagement and Partnerships

• Describe existing and proposed partnerships that will support program success, including:

o Employer partnerships o Institutions of higher education o Community-based organizations o Workforce system partners o Work-based learning opportunities o Employment placement activities o Employer involvement in curriculum development or participant hiring

Performance Management and Outcomes

• Describe how your organization will monitor participant progress and achieve performance outcomes.

Include:

o Performance tracking methods o Data collection and reporting processes o Quality assurance procedures o Strategies for participant retention o Continuous improvement processes o Proposed performance goals for the outcomes identified in City of Lawrence Youth AI

Workforce Training performance measures

Employer Commitment Letters / Certifications (either by WB Program Manager or vendor)

• Employer commitment letters that could confirm:

o Participation in curriculum development;

o Guest speakers;

o Mentoring;

o Facility/site visits;

o Job shadowing;

o Internships;

o Work-based learning;

o Interviews;

o Potential hiring;

o Apprenticeship opportunities;

o Equipment/software demonstrations.

Attachment E Program Performance Measures and Long-Term Outcomes

MEASURABLE OUTCOME

Outcome Description Anticipated Result

Lawrence Youth Enrollment Number of eligible Lawrence residents enrolled in the program

Training Completion Percentage of enrolled participants who successfully complete the required training

Credential Attainment Percentage of participants who earn a credential/certificate identified in the

Work-Based Learning Percentage of participants who participate in an approved work-based learning activity

Internship/Work Experience Percentage of participants who complete an internship or work experience

Employment/Postsecondary Placement

Percentage of program completers entering employment, Employment Retention Percentage of placed participants remaining employed at the

Participant Satisfaction Percentage of participants reporting satisfaction at or above

Employer Satisfaction Percentage of participating employers reporting satisfaction at

Employer Partnerships Number of employers actively participating in recruitment, Long-Term Outcome Reporting Measure Reporting Measure – No Target Needed

Status — 2nd Quarter After Exit

Number and percentage of exited participants employed, enrolled in postsecondary education, or participating in advanced training approximately two quarters after exit

Status — 4th Quarter After Exit

Number and percentage of exited participants employed, enrolled in postsecondary education, or participating in advanced training approximately four quarters after exit

Median Earnings — 2nd Quarter After Exit

Median earnings of exited participants who are employed during the second quarter after exit, where available

Performance Measurement: The primary performance measures for this City of Lawrence-funded initiative are the measures identified in the Program Performance Measures table above. The long-term follow-up outcomes are intended for reporting and evaluation purposes and are not intended to constitute WIOA performance requirements.

Attachment F Price Proposal Contents Checklist

FY27 City of Lawrence Youth AI Workforce Training

Cover Sheet Each section fully completed Attachment F

Signed by authorized signatory Attachment G

Minimum Qualifying Criteria

Minimum Qualifying Document Attachment H

Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers (If Applicable) Attachment I

Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers (If Applicable) Attachment J

Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters Attachment K

Statement of Commitment to a Drug-Free Workplace Attachment L

Certificate of Non-Collusion Attachment M

Audit Assurance Certification Attachment N

Evidence of Commitment to Equal Opportunity, Nondiscrimination, and Affirmative Action Attachment O

Certificate of Good Standing Attachment P

Budget & Budget Narrative

Budget Completed Attachment Q

Budget Narrative Completed Attachment Q

Indirect Rate Included (if applicable)

Attachment G Price Proposal Cover Sheet

City of Lawrence Youth AI Workforce Training

Organization:

Mailing Address:

Contact Person:

Telephone:

Email Address:

City/Towns to Be Served:

Total Amount of Funding Request:

Project Performance Goals:

Performance Measure Proposed Performance Goal

Lawrence Youth Enrollment

Training Completion Rate

Credential/Certificate Attainment Rate

Work-Based Learning Participation Rate

Internship/Work Experience Participation Rate

Employment/Postsecondary Placement Rate

Employment Retention Rate

Participant Satisfaction

Employer Satisfaction

Employer Partnerships

Attachment H Minimum Qualifying Criteria Checklist

City of Lawrence Youth AI Training

In order to be considered for funding, the following must be completed and submitted with your original price proposal only. Failure to complete these certifications and affidavits will result in your proposal not being considered for funding.

Price Proposal Contents Checklist

Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers (If Applicable)

Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers (If Applicable)

Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters

Statement of Commitment to a Drug-Free Workplace

Certificate of Non-Collusion

Audit Assurance Certification

Evidence of Commitment to Equal Opportunity, Nondiscrimination, and Affirmative Action Certificate of Good Standing Budget and Budget Instructions

Signature of Authorized Representative for your Organization:

Submitted by: ____________________________________________________________

Signature Date

Attachment I Signatory Authorization for Corporate Providers

PROVIDER:

ADDRESS:

CITY/STATE/ZIP:

COMPLETE ALL SECTIONS

MASSACHUSETTS OR FOREIGN CORPORATION

� Massachusetts Corporation � Non-Massachusetts Corporation

A Non-Massachusetts Corporation is required to register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State to obtain an authorization to do business within Massachusetts. Attach a copy of such authorization to this form.

CORPORATE TAX STATUS

� For-Profit Corporation � Corporation exempt from taxation under 501 [C] [3] of the Internal Revenue Code

� Corporation exempt from taxation under of the Internal Revenue Code.

CERTIFICATE OF VOTE

The following statement must be completed and signed by the Clerk(s) of the corporation, or a Certificate of Vote authorizing a signatory to execute contracts on behalf of the corporation must be attached.

At a duly authorized meeting of the Board of Directors of [Name of Corporation] held on [Date], in accordance with the by-laws of said corporation, it was voted that:

NAME TITLE and/or

NAME TITLE

of the corporation be hereby authorized to execute contracts and bonds on behalf of the corporation and that such execution of any contract or obligation in this corporation's name on its behalf by the person so authorized shall be valid and binding on this corporation.

SIGNATURE OF CLERK DATE

AFFIDAVIT OF COMPLIANCE

I , authorized signatory of name of corporation] do hereby certify that the above-named corporation has filed with the Secretary of State all certificates and reports required by MGL c.1563 s. 109 and MGL c. 180 s.

26A.

Attachment J Signatory Authorization for Non-Corporate Providers

Name of entity:

Address:

Designate type of entity (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, local education agency, municipality, etc.):

Title of the staff position with authority to sign contracts:

Name of the person currently filling this position:

Signature of authorized party:

Date:

Attachment K Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters Primary Covered Transactions

This certification is required by the regulations implementing Executive Order 12549, Debarment and Suspension, 29 CFR Part 98, Section 98.510, Participants' responsibilities. The regulations were published as Part VII of the May 26, 1988, Federal Register [Pages 19160-19211].

BEFORE SIGNING THE CERTIFICATION, PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS WHICH ARE AN

INTEGRAL PART OF THE CERTIFICATION

1. The prospective primary participant certifies to the best of its knowledge and belief that it and its principals:

a. Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any federal department or agency;

b. Have not within a three-year period preceding this proposal been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public [Federal, State or local] transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of record, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.

c. Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a government entity [Federal, State, or local] with the commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph [1] [b] of this certification; and

d. Have not within a three-year period preceding this application/ proposal had one or more public transactions (Federal, State, or local) terminated for cause or default.

2. Where the prospective primary participant is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, such prospective participant shall attach an explanation to this proposal.

NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY

SIGNATURE DATE

Attachment L Drug Free Workplace Certification

I, _______________________________________________, in representation of

(Print Name)

___________________________________________________, do hereby certify that

(Agency/Organization)

____________________________________________________, has taken all

(Agency/Organization)

Necessary measures to ensure a drug free workplace consistent with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, as well as all applicable state laws.

Signature

Date

Attachment M Certificate of Non-Collusion

The undersigned certifies under penalties of perjury that this bid, or proposal has been made or submitted in good faith and without collusion or fraud with any other person. As used in this certification, the word “person” shall mean any natural person, business, partnership, corporation, union, committee, club, or other organization, entity, or group of individuals.

(Printed name of individual submitting bid or proposal)

(Signature of individual submitting bid or proposal)

(Name of Organization)

(Date)

Attachment N Audit Certification

Check whichever is applicable.

A copy of my organization’s most recent Audited Financial Statements or Single Audit (if applicable) is attached.

A copy of my organization’s most recent Audited Financial Statements or Single Audit (if applicable) has already been submitted to MMVWB Staff.

As an entity of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, a copy of my organization’s most recent Single Audit is available online at [INDICATE WEBSITE]

Attachment O Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non- Discrimination

I have attached my organization’s Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Non-Discrimination Policy.

Attachment P Certificate of Good Standing

Please apply at Commonwealth of Massachusetts /Department of Revenue to receive current Certificate for your organization.

Please fill only in the white cells.

Attachment Q Budget & Budget Instructions

There are two worksheets to this budget. They are as follows:

• Program Budget Sheet

• Program Budget Narrative

IMPORTANT: There are formulas in the budget templates. These formulas and set up to calculate each section of the budget, as well as the grand total. Manipulating these formulas will cause the budget spreadsheet to not calculate properly. Please do not alter the formulas.

It is strongly recommended that the person completing this budget document understands Microsoft Excel. If not, please engage the assistance of someone who does.

Program Budget Sheet: Please fill this out by Expense Type of Personnel, Premises, Non-Personnel, Training and Indirect Costs. Please see instructions below for each expense type.

A. Personnel: This expense type includes the Staff Salaries and Fringe Benefits.

B. Premises: This expense type includes the Rent, Utilities & Insurance and Bonding.

C. Non-Personnel: This expense type includes such items as the Expendable Supplies, Printing, Advertising, Registration & Fees, Travel & Transportation, Equipment Rental & Maintenance, Telephone & Communications, Postage, etc.

D. Participants Costs: This expense type includes the Participants Wages, Incentives, and any direct participant related costs, etc.

E. Indirect Costs: This category can only be used for an agency with an approved indirect cost rate from their cognizant agency.

Program Budget Narrative: Please fill out in detail for each expense type of Personnel, Premises, Non- Personnel, Participants Costs and Indirect Costs.

Personnel Expenses Staff Salaries & Wages: Provide an explanation for each staff position to be included in this program.

Detail the number of positions, weekly wage, number of weeks and percentage of time spent on the program.

Staff Fringe Benefits: Provide an explanation of each component of the fringe benefit package, such as payroll taxes, medical insurance, unemployment insurance, workers compensation, retirement, etc. Other benefits, such as incentives, are unallowable.

Premises

Premises: Identify the address of the program, the monthly rent, number of months and percentage of time used for the program.

Utilities & Insurance: Identify the address of the program, the estimated monthly utilities & Insurance, number of months and percentage of time used for the program.

Non-Personnel Materials or Supplies: identify any supplies and materials to be purchased (i.e.: books, software, pens, notepads, etc.)

Equipment Rental & Maintenance: provide a description of equipment and usage for the program.

Travel & Transportation: Identify the type of travel expense made for the program. The cost per mile cannot exceed the rates established by the Internal Revenue Service.

Telephone & Communication: Identify an estimated monthly cost of the telephone, fax and internet lines needed.

Advertising &Printing: Identify the items of advertising (i.e.: newspaper, radio, etc.) and of printing & reproduction (i.e.: flyers, film development, etc.)

Participants Costs Participant Wages: Provide an explanation for each participant to be included in this program. Detail the number of participants, hourly rate (cannot exceed Massachusetts minimum wage rate), hours per week and number of weeks in the program.

Participants Taxes: Provide an explanation of each component of the payroll related taxes.

Incentive payments (ONLY for training related activities): The MMVWB will require incentive payments of up to $350 per youth for training-related activities. In the budget section you will be asked to provide five (5) training-related benchmarks, goals, achievements of milestones, and criteria to evaluate and calculate the incentive payments. Each training-related benchmark will be paid as follows:

benchmarks 1 through 4 $75.00 each and benchmark 5 at $50.00 for a maximum of $350 per participant.

Incentive payments to youth will be paid by the prospective bidder through the cost reimbursement contract with the MMVWB/City of Lawrence.

Stipend payments: The MMVWB will require stipend payments to youth participants at a rate of $15.00 per hour (current Mass minimum wage) for in-person classroom participation and program activities.

Detail the number of participants, hourly rate, hours per week and number of weeks in the program.

These stipends will be paid by the MMVWB/City of Lawrence, but the prospective bidder should include these costs in their budget.

Direct Participants related costs: Provide an explanation for each participants related costs to be included in this program. Detail the type of costs such as Books, Supplies etc.

Indirect Costs Indirect Costs: This category can only be used for an agency with an approved indirect cost rate from their cognizant agency.

Attachment T MMVWB/City of Lawrence Terms, Conditions, Assurances

1. DEFINITIONS:

As used through this Contract, the following terms shall have the meaning set forth below:

a. "Agreement" or "Contract" This document, including all attachments, addenda, and, by reference, applicable Department of Labor (DOL) and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulations.

b. "Authorized Representatives" Any person or persons on board or chief elected official (other than the Contracting

Officer) authorized to act for the head of the agency.

c. "Contracting Officer" The person executing this contract on behalf of the funding agency, and any other individual who is properly designated Contracting Officer; and the term includes, except as otherwise provided in this contract, the authorized representative of a Contracting Officer within the limits of his authority. The Contracting Officer will be the only individual who can legally commit the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB) to the expenditure of funds in connection with this contract or accomplish any contract changes.

d. "Contractor" Party engaged to render services or complete tasks for amounts specified in this contract document.

e. “CommCorp” (Commonwealth Corporation) - Which has statewide responsibility for oversight of select local

DOL programs for the Governor.

f. “DESE” (Department of Elementary & Secondary Education) - Which has statewide responsibility for oversight of local DESE programs.

g. “MDCS” (MassHire Department of Career Services) - Which has statewide responsibility for oversight of select local DOL programs for the Governor.

h. “EOLWD” (Executive Office of Labor Workforce Development) - An agency operating under the Executive branch of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that oversees and helps to coordinate labor and workforce development activities among the Department of Career Services and the state Workforce Investment Board.

i. “DTA” – (Department of Transitional Assistance) - Which has statewide responsibility for oversight of local DTA programs.

j. “Lower Merrimack Valley Workforce Area” (LMVWA) - The region served by the local Workforce Investment Board (MMVWB), and the ValleyWorks Career Center, consisting of the following fifteen (15) communities:

Amesbury; Andover; Boxford; Georgetown; Groveland; Haverhill; Lawrence; Merrimac; Methuen; Newbury;

Newburyport; North Andover; Rowley; Salisbury; and West Newbury.

k. MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board (MMVWB) - Regional workforce investment board designated by the

Governor and appointed by the Chief Elected Official (CEO) of the region charged with policy development, planning and oversight of the workforce system within the LMVWA.

l. "Modifications" - Any changes, amendments, or emendations to this contract which affect the intent, cost, quality or length of contracted services.

m. "Participant" - An individual who has been determined to be eligible to participate in and who is receiving services (except for follow-up services) under a program authorized by WIOA Title I. Participation commences on the first day following determination of eligibility on which the individual begins receiving core, intensive training or other services provided under WIOA Title I.

n. "Subcontract" - Includes all contracts, agreements or purchases, including purchase orders entered into by the Contractor with a third party to procure property or services under this contract.

o. Stand-in Costs - Costs paid from non-Federal sources which a recipient proposes to substitute for Federal costs which have been disallowed as a result of an audit or other review.

p. "WIOA" or Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act - Which authorized the Secretary of Labor to prescribe such rules, regulations, and guidelines as necessary to provide workforce investment activities that increase the employment, retention and earnings of participants.

2. MERRIMACK VALLEY WORKFORCE BOARD AND CITY OF LAWRENCE FISCAL AGENT

The MMVWB and the Fiscal Agent for the City of Lawrence, designated by the CEO, have legal authority to commit expenditures of funds in connection with this Contract or to approve or disapprove any Contract changes. The MMVWB or Mayor of the City of Lawrence may designate employees to act as authorized representatives for certain specific purposes.

3. STATEMENT OF TAX COMPLIANCE

Pursuant to M.G.L., Chapter 62C, Section 49A, the Contractor certifies that it has filed all state tax returns and paid all taxes as required by law. The Contractor also certifies that it has filed all federal tax returns and paid taxes as required by federal law.

4. NON-DISCRIMINATION EMPLOYMENT & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

As a condition to this award of financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Labor or Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, under Title I of WIOA or for any other funds for which the City of Lawrence or MMVWB have liability the Contractor assures that it will comply fully with the nondiscrimination and equal opportunity provisions of the following laws: Section 188 of the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act of 1998 (WIOA), which prohibits discrimination against all individuals in the United States on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual harassment, gender identity, pregnancy and gender based wage discrimination), national origin, age, disability (physical or mental, including failure to accommodate),genetic information, sexual orientation, parental status or retaliation for prior EEO protected activity, political affiliation or belief, and against beneficiaries on the basis of either citizenship/status as a lawfully admitted immigrant authorized to work in the United States or participation in any WIOA Title I--financially assisted program or activity; Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the bases of race, color and national origin; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, as amended, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-325), which became effective on January 1, 2009 that provides, “a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination” and “clear, strong, consistent, enforceable standards addressing discrimination” by reinstating a broad scope of protection to be available under the ADA; which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities; The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age; and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs. The grant applicant also assures that it will comply with 29 CFR part 37 and all other regulations implementing the laws listed above. This assurance applies to the grant applicant's operation of the WIOA Title I-financially assisted program or activity, and to all agreements the grant applicant makes to carry out the WIOA Title I-financially assisted program or activity. The grant applicant understands that the United States and Massachusetts have the right to seek judicial enforcement of this assurance.

5. POLITICAL ACTIVITIES, LOBBYING PROHIBITION & ANTI-BOYCOTT WARRANTY

The Contractor may not use any Contract funds and none of the services to be provided by the Contractor may be used for any partisan or non-partisan political activity or to further the election or defeat of any candidate for public office. The Contractor will comply, where applicable, with the provisions of the Hatch Act, which limit the political activity of certain State and local government employees, along with contractors, subcontractors and participants funded through the use of WIOA funds. The Contractor shall comply with 2 CFR 200.450 regarding the restrictions on lobbying and the Certification and Disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 319 of Public Law 101-121. Pursuant to Executive Order 130, or as amended, neither the Contractor nor any affiliated company of the Contractor shall participate in or cooperate with any international boycott, as defined in Section 999(b)(3) and (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or as amended; nor shall engage in conduct declared to be unlawful by MGL c.151E sec.2. As used herein, an affiliated company shall be any business entity of which at least 51% of the ownership interests are directly or indirectly owned by the Contractor or by a person or persons, or a business entity or entities, which owns at least 51% of the ownership interest of the Contractor or any business entity which directly or indirectly owns 51% ownership interest in the Contractor.

6. DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, 41 U.S.C. 702 et seq., and 2 CFR 182 require that all organizations receiving grants from any Federal agency maintain a drug-free workplace.