STATE OF DELAWARE

Delaware Workforce Development Board and the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

State of Delaware

In School Youth (ISY)

Request for Proposal

Contract No. LAB-ISY-26R-001

February 4, 2026

- Deadline to Respond - March 12, 2026

1:00 PM (Local Time)

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

CONTRACT NO. LAB-ISY-26R-001

ALL VENDORS:

The enclosed packet contains a "REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL" for LAB-ISY-26R-001. The proposal consists of the following:

Contents:

I. INTRODUCTION

II. SCOPE OF WORK

III. FORMAT FOR PROPOSAL

IV. PROPOSAL EVALUATION PROCEDURES

V. MANDATORY PREBID MEETING

VI. DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS

VII. PROPOSAL REPLY SECTION

ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT 1 - NON-COLLUSION STATEMENT

ATTACHMENT 2 - EXCEPTIONS FORM

ATTACHMENT 3 - CONFIDENTIALITY FORM

ATTACHMENT 4 - BUSINESS REFERENCE

ATTACHMENT 5 - SUBCONTRACTOR INFORMATION SHEET

ATTACHMENT 6 - MONTHLY USAGE REPORT

ATTACHMENT 7 - SUBCONTRACTOR 2ND TIER QUARTERLY REPORT

ATTACHMENT 8 - OFFICE OF SUPPLIER DIVERSITY

ATTACHMENT 9 - PROPOSAL REPLY REQUIREMENTS

APPENDIXES

APPENDIX A - MINIMUM CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSION

APPENDIX B - STATEMENT OF WORK & TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

APPENDIX C - PROPOSAL SUBMISSION TEMPLATE

APPENDIX D - BUDGET

APPENDIX E - TERMS AND CONDITIONS

APPENDIX F - HIGH DEMAND OCCUPATION LIST

In order for your proposal to be considered, the Proposal Reply Section shall be executed completely and correctly and returned by email by March 12, 2026 at 1:00 PM (Local Time) to be considered.

Proposals must be emailed to:

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

Email Address: DWDBDETContracting@Delaware.gov Subject Line: “BID ENCLOSED: LAB-ISY-26R-001, PROVIDER NAME, ISY Submission”

Please review and follow the information and instructions contained in the General Provisions and this Request for Proposal (RFP). Should you need additional information, please contact John Quick at DWDBDETContracting@Delaware.gov mailto:DWDBDETContracting@Delaware.gov mailto:DWDBDETContracting@Delaware.gov

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

I. INTRODUCTION

A. PURPOSE

The purpose of this Request for Proposal is to obtain proposals describe the material and/or non-professional service being sought. It is the goal of this Request for Proposal to identify a vendor(s) and execute a contract to organizations with the expertise and demonstrated capacity to provide high quality programming for In-School (ISY) youth with barriers to secondary school completion, employment and/or post-secondary enrollment.

Programs should include career exploration and guidance, counseling support for educational attainment and opportunities for occupational skills training for in-demand industries and occupations in the State of Delaware.

Delaware is seeking proposals that are concise, innovative and reflect quality partnerships with businesses and community agencies that can provide a variety of services and opportunities for the targeted population.

The United States Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training (USDOL/ETA) has set priorities for programs serving youth as well as a vision for coordination and impact, many based on lessons learned from the Pandemic and best practices used in states and local areas. The overarching vision is to achieve a no-wrong-door workforce system with critical partners committed to quality career pathways and paid work experiences.

1. COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL

It has been determined by The Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB) in partnership with the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training (DOL), pursuant to Delaware Code Title 29, Chapter 6924 (a) that this solicitation be offered as a request for competitive sealed proposals because the use of competitive sealed bidding is not practical and/or not in the best interest of the State. The use of competitive sealed proposals is necessary to:

• Use a contract other than a fixed-price type; or

• Conduct oral or written discussions with vendors concerning technical and price aspects of their proposals;

or

• Afford vendors an opportunity to revise their proposals through best and final offers; or

• Compare the different price, quality and contractual factors of the proposals submitted; or

• Award a contract in which price is not the determining factor.

2. CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

This contract will be issued to basic description of contract requirements.

3. AGENCY USE CONTRACT

Pursuant to 29 Del. C. § 6904(e) respectively, if no state contract exists for a certain good or service, covered agencies may procure that certain good or service under another agency's contract so long as the arrangement is agreeable to all parties. Agencies, other than covered agencies, may also procure such goods or services under another agency's contract when the arrangement is agreeable to all parties.

4. MULTIPLE SOURCE AWARD

The Agency reserves the right to award this contract to more than one vendor pursuant to 29 Del. C. § 6926.

5. POTENTIAL CONTRACT OVERLAP

http://delcode.delaware.gov/title29/c069/sc01/index.shtml http://delcode.delaware.gov/title29/c069/sc03/index.shtml#6926

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

Vendors shall be advised that the State, at its sole discretion, shall retain the right to solicit for goods and/or services as required by its agencies and as it serves the best interest of the State. As needs are identified, there may exist instances where contract deliverables, and/or goods or services to be solicited and subsequently awarded, overlap previous awards. The State reserves the right to reject any or all bids in whole or in part, to make partial awards, to award to multiple vendors during the same period, to award by types, on a zone-by-zone basis or on an item-by-item or lump sum basis item by item, or lump sum total, whichever may be most advantageous to the State of Delaware.

6. SUPPLEMENTAL SOLICITATION

The State reserves the right to advertise a supplemental solicitation during the term of the Agreement if deemed in the best interest of the State.

7. CONTRACT PERIOD

Each Vendor’s contract shall be valid for a one (1) year period from 7/1/2025 – 6/30/2026. Each contract may be renewed for four (4) one (1) year periods through negotiation between the Vendor and The Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB) and the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training.

Negotiation may be initiated no later than ninety (90) days prior to the termination of the current agreement.

The State reserves the right to extend this contract on a month-to-month basis for a period of up to three months after the term of the full contract has been completed.

B. KEY RFP DATES/MILESTONES

The following dates and milestones apply to this RFP and subsequent contract award. Vendors are advised that these dates and milestones are not absolute and may change due to unplanned events during the bid proposal and award process.

Activity Due Date

RFP Availability to Vendors February 4, 2026 Mandatory Pre-bid Conference February 19, 2026, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Written Questions Due No Later Than (NLT) February 24, 2026 Written Answers Due/Posted to Website NLT March 2, 2026 Proposals Due NLT March 12, 2026, 1:00 pm Proposal Evaluation April 1, 2026 Oral Clarification, as required April 2, 2026 Contract Award Will occur within 90 days of bid opening

C. INQUIRIES & QUESTIONS

We welcome your interest in working with us, and we will be pleased to answer any questions you may have in formulating your response to this Request for Proposal.

All questions with regard to the interpretation of this solicitation, drawings, or specifications, or any other aspect of this RFP must be received in writing by February 24, 2026 questions are due. All questions will be answered in writing by March 2, 2026 Responses will be Posted and posted on https://bids.delaware.gov/ website. All questions must make specific reference to the section(s) and page numbers from this RFP where applicable. Oral explanations or instructions will not be binding.

D. RFP DESIGNATED CONTACT

https://bids.delaware.gov/

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

All requests, questions, or other communications about this RFP shall be made in writing to the State of Delaware. Address all communications to the person listed below; communications made to other State of Delaware personnel or attempting to ask questions by phone or in person will not be allowed or recognized as valid and may disqualify the vendor. Vendors should rely only on written statements issued by the RFP designated contact.

NAME: John Quick DEPARTMENT: Delaware Workforce Development Board EMAIL ADDRESS: DWDBDETContracting@delaware.gov

To ensure that written requests are received and answered in a timely manner, electronic mail (e-mail) correspondence is acceptable, but other forms of delivery, such as postal and courier services can also be used.

II. SCOPE OF WORK

A. OVERVIEW

The Vendor(s) shall provide all equipment, materials and labor to supplement the State of Delaware’s need for In School Youth as described herein. The contract will require the Vendor(s) to cooperate with the ordering agency to insure the State receives the most current state-of-the-art material and/or services.

B. BACKGROUND

The Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB) in partnership with the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training (DOL) solicits organizations with the expertise and demonstrated capacity to provide high quality programming for In-School (ISY) youth with barriers to secondary school completion, employment and/or post-secondary enrollment. Programs should include career exploration and guidance, counseling support for educational attainment and opportunities for occupational skills training for in-demand industries and occupations in the State of Delaware.

Delaware is seeking proposals that are concise, innovative and reflect quality partnerships with businesses and community agencies that can provide a variety of services and opportunities for the targeted population.

The United States Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training (USDOL/ETA) has set priorities for programs serving youth as well as a vision for coordination and impact, many based on lessons learned from the Pandemic and best practices used in states and local areas. The overarching vision is to achieve a no-wrong-door workforce system with critical partners committed to quality career pathways and paid work experiences.

C. STATEMENT OF NEEDS

The intent of this RFP is to fund programs that provide services, instruction, and support that results in the outcomes described in the Performance Measures. The intended result is that participants receive their High School Diploma, GED or Equivalent or continue to the next grade. To accomplish this, there are required elements and training strategies.

a. Activities must support In-School Youth training, consistent with DWDB and DET priorities and WIOA Program Requirements for Delaware Youth ages 14-21 who are still attending school.

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

b. Outreach, Recruitment and Retention include but are not limited to, identifying potentially eligible youth, working with parents and guardians to secure necessary documentation, and working closely with other governmental and community organizations and school systems to identify and recruit eligible youth.

Continued engagement and retention of program participants is vital to individual and program success.

c. Intake, Eligibility Determination and Certification: Providers will be responsible for reasonably determining WIOA eligibility of youth applicants recruited into the program. Eligibility is defined in Appendix D. Terms and Conditions.

d. Providers shall implement Mental Health and Trauma Informed Care training for staff and participants throughout the program year.

e. Providers shall ensure that participants understand what quality jobs are through supported work experiences that include supervision, paid training, access to supportive services, career ladders and work-based learning that may lead to a certification.

f. Objective Assessment must be conducted by the providers to assess the academic level, skill level and service needs of each participant. This will include a review of basic skills, occupational skills, prior work experience, employability, interests, aptitudes, supportive service needs, Mental Health needs and development needs. The goal is to accurately evaluate each youth to develop and maintain the Individual Service Strategy (ISS). Providers will assess reading and math skills using assessment instruments that are valid and appropriate for the target population. Examples include: Smarter Balance, PSAT, SAT and assessments approved by the National Reporting System found here:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/12/13/2016-29899/tests-determined-to- be-suitable-for-use-in-the-national-reporting-system-for-adult-education

g. Individual Service Strategy (ISS) will be developed by the provider for each youth participant. The ISS is an individualized, written plan of short and long-term goals that include career pathways, education and employment goals, involvement in WIOA youth program elements, supportive services, incentives, and stipends. The ISS will identify the timeframe in which each youth will be expected to complete all activities related to the goals. The ISS will clearly connect the services to be provided to the outcomes to be achieved between WIOA enrollment and exit. The ISS must be completed and uploaded into Delaware JobLink (DJL) within 30 days of program enrollment. The ISS will be updated throughout the program and uploaded after each update.

h. Case Management is the infrastructure for delivering effective services that will facilitate the growth and development of youth and the achievement of performance goals. The process of case management begins at recruitment and extends for 12 months post-exit. The provider/bidder must describe in detail how they are embedding comprehensive and wraparound case management services within their proposed program design and, plans to develop case managers through training and supervision. Case Management data will be maintained in Delaware JobLink (DJL) as a requirement of this program.

i. All providers shall ensure that analyzing and solving problems, durable/soft skills, competency in foundation mathematics, reading skills and good attendance is taught and reinforced continually throughout the program.

j. Providers will offer training appropriate to the intended job placement opportunity and demonstrate that the curriculum being offered through proposed training meets the current and projected needs of local employers and/or training that allows trainees to earn a Diploma, GED, recognized equivalent or other recognized Industry Credential.

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/12/13/2016-29899/tests-determined-to-be-suitable-for-use-in-the-national-reporting-system-for-adult-education https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/12/13/2016-29899/tests-determined-to-be-suitable-for-use-in-the-national-reporting-system-for-adult-education https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/12/13/2016-29899/tests-determined-to-be-suitable-for-use-in-the-national-reporting-system-for-adult-education

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

k. Providers will ensure their youth program personnel are available beyond traditional school and provider hours of operations to provide needed support and services when necessary.

l. Providers will provide effective connections to employers of all sizes, in high demand industry sectors and high demand occupations in the local and regional labor markets to help explore careers and industries, provider work-based learning where participants can engage and learn from employers, through job shadowing, paid/unpaid work experience/internships, clinical and virtual work experiences are allowable, demonstrate linkages between academic instruction and occupation training and, prepare students for unsubsidized employment opportunities.

m. Providers will maintain documentation for each participant, including eligibility determination, attendance, assessments, credentials, certificates, measurable skill gains, and outcomes. Providers will be required to assist clients in creating a DJL account, uploading documents to each client’s account, enroll client in either WIOA or Blue Collar ISY program, complete S&T entries and enter credential information in Outcomes and complete required exit questions.

n. Providers will provide retention services for all exited clients to meet performance requirements for a period of 12 months following program exit.

o. Providers will develop a robust referral mechanism and document all referrals (received and sent) and will provide a quarterly report of this data to DWDB & DOL.

p. Providers will account for 25% of requested amount of funds be set aside for Work Experience (WEX).

Providers also acknowledge that an awarded amount that differs from the requested amount will have an adjusted Work Experience total. Work Experience is further defined in Appendix C.

q. WIOA mandates 14 Program Elements that every program must provide to participants.

• Tutoring, Study Skills Training, Instruction and Evidence-Based Dropout Prevention and

Recovery Strategies.

• Alternative secondary school services, or dropout recovery services as appropriate.

• Paid or Unpaid Work Experience.

• Occupational Skills Training.

• Education offered concurrently with, and in the same context as, workforce preparation activities.

• Leadership Development Opportunities.

• Supportive Services.

• Adult Mentoring.

• Follow-up Services.

• Comprehensive Guidance and Counseling.

• Financial Literacy Education.

• Entrepreneurial Skills Training.

• Services that provide Labor Market Information.

• Post-secondary preparation and transition activities.

D. DETAILED REQUIREMENTS

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

The technical requirements of this RFP are stated in Appendix B. Vendors must provide pricing for the items listed in the Excel Spreadsheet, Appendix D.

III. FORMAT FOR PROPOSAL

A. INTRODUCTION

This section prescribes the mandatory format for the presentation of a proposal in response to this RFP. Each Vendor must provide every component listed in the order shown in this RFP, using the format prescribed for each component.

A proposal may be rejected if it is incomplete or conditional.

B. PROPOSAL RESPONSE

The Request for Proposal may contain pre-printed forms for use by the vendor in submitting its proposal. The forms required by this solicitation shall be considered mandatory, prevailing documents.

When preprinted forms are used, the forms shall contain basic information such as description of the item and the estimated quantities and shall have blank spaces for use by the vendor for entering information such as unit bid price, total bid price, as applicable.

If items are listed with a zero quantity, Vendor shall state unit price ONLY (intended for open end purchases where estimated requirements are not known). The proposal shall show a total bid price for each item bid and the total bid price of the proposal excluding zero quantity items.

Vendors’ proposal must respond to each and every requirement outlined in the RFP criteria in order to be considered responsive. Proposals must be clear and concise.

C. NON-CONFORMING PROPOSALS

Non-conforming proposals will not be considered. Non-conforming proposals are defined as those that do not meet the requirements of this RFP. The determination of whether an RFP requirement is substantive or a mere formality shall reside solely within the State of Delaware.

D. CONCISE PROPOSALS

The State of Delaware discourages overly lengthy and costly proposals. It is the desire that proposals be prepared in a straightforward and concise manner. Unnecessarily elaborate brochures or other promotional materials beyond those sufficient to present a complete and effective proposal are not desired. The State of Delaware’s interest is in the quality and responsiveness of the proposal.

E. COVER LETTER

Each proposal will have a cover letter on the letterhead of the company or organization submitting the proposal. The cover letter must briefly summarize the Vendor's ability to provide the services specified in the RFP. The cover letter shall be signed by a representative who has the legal capacity to enter the organization into a formal contract with Delaware Workforce Development Board and the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training.

F. TABLE OF CONTENTS

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

Each proposal must include a Table of Contents with page numbers for each of the required components of the proposal.

G. DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES AND QUALIFICATIONS

Each proposal must contain a detailed description of how the Vendor will provide the goods and services outlined in this RFP. This part of the proposal may also include descriptions of any enhancements or additional services or qualifications the Vendor will provide that are not mentioned in this RFP.

H. SAMPLES OR BROCHURES

Samples or brochures may be required by the agency for evaluation purposes. They shall be such as to permit the

Agency to compare and determine if the item offered complies with the intent of the specifications.

I. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING OF TERMS

By submitting a bid, each Vendor shall be deemed to acknowledge that it has carefully read all sections of this RFP, including all forms, schedules and exhibits hereto, and has fully informed itself as to all existing conditions and limitations.

J. PROPOSAL EXPIRATION DATE

Prices quoted in the proposal shall remain fixed and binding on the bidder at least through June 30, 2027. Delaware reserves the right to ask for an extension of time if needed.

K. WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS

A Vendor may withdraw its proposal unopened after it has been deposited, if such a request is made prior to the time set for the opening of the proposal.

L. PROPOSAL MODIFICATIONS

Any changes, amendments or modifications to a submitted proposal requires that the original proposal be withdrawn, prior to the time set for the submission of the proposal, and a new proposal submitted prior to the deadline for submission of proposals.

Changes, amendments or modifications to proposals shall not be accepted or considered after the hour and date specified as the deadline for submission of proposals.

M. LATE PROPOSALS

Proposals received after the specified date and time will not be accepted or considered.

N. ADDENDA TO THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

If it becomes necessary to revise any part of this RFP, revisions will be posted at https://bids.delaware.gov/ . By submitting an offer to the State, vendors have acknowledged receipt, understanding and commitment to comply with all materials, revisions, and addenda related to the Request for Proposal.

https://bids.delaware.gov/

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

O. INCURRED EXPENSES

The State will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by the vendor in preparing and submitting a proposal.

P. ECONOMY OF PREPARATION

Proposals should be prepared simply and economically, providing a straight-forward, concise description of the

Vendor’s offer to meet the requirements of the RFP.

Q. DISCREPANCIES AND OMISSIONS

Vendor is fully responsible for the completeness and accuracy of their proposal, and for examining this RFP and all addenda. Failure to do so will be at the sole risk of vendor. Should vendor find discrepancies, omissions, unclear or ambiguous intent or meaning, or should any questions arise concerning this RFP, vendor shall notify the State of Delaware’s Designated Contact, in writing, of such findings at least ten (10) days before the proposal opening. This will allow issuance of any necessary addenda. It will also help prevent the opening of a defective proposal and exposure of vendor’s proposal upon which award could not be made. All unresolved issues should be addressed in the proposal.

Protests based on any omission or error, or on the content of the solicitation, will be disallowed if these faults have not been brought to the attention of the Designated Contact, in writing, no later than ten (10) calendar days prior to the time set for opening of the proposals.

R. EXCEPTIONS

Bidders may elect to take minor exception to the terms and conditions of this RFP by completing Attachment 2. Enter

Agency Name shall evaluate each exception according to the intent of the terms and conditions contained herein, but Delaware Workforce Development Board and the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment and Training must reject exceptions that do not conform to State bid law and/or create inequality in the treatment of bidders.

Exceptions shall be considered only if they are submitted with the bid or before the date and time of the bid opening.

Exceptions must be submitted utilizing Attachment 2 to be considered. Exceptions listed elsewhere in the Vendor’s proposal will not be considered. Enter Agency Name maintains sole discretion to reject any vendor exceptions that are submitted.

S. BUSINESS REFERENCES

Provide at least three (3) business references consisting of current or previous customers of similar scope and value using Attachment 4. Include business name, mailing address, contact name and phone number, number of years doing business with, and type of work performed. Personal references cannot be considered.

T. SUBCONTRACTS

Subcontracting is permitted under this RFP and contract. However, every subcontractor shall be identified in the

Proposal using Attachment 5.

U. CONFIDENTIALITY

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

Subject to applicable law or the order of a court of competent jurisdiction to the contrary, all documents submitted as part of the vendor’s proposal will be treated as confidential during the evaluation process. As such, vendor proposals will not be available for review by anyone other than the State of Delaware/Proposal Evaluation Team or its designated agents. There shall be no disclosure of any vendor’s information until a fully executed contract is received unless such disclosure is required by law or by order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

The State of Delaware and its constituent agencies are required to comply with the State of Delaware Freedom of Information Act, 29 Del. C. § 10001, et seq. (“FOIA”). FOIA requires that the State of Delaware’s records are public records (unless otherwise declared by FOIA or other law to be exempt from disclosure) and are subject to inspection and copying by any person upon a written request. Once fully executed contracts are received, the contents of all vendor proposals are subject to FOIA’s public disclosure obligations and exemptions.

The State of Delaware wishes to create a business-friendly environment and procurement process. As such, the State respects the vendor community’s desire to protect its intellectual property, trade secrets, and confidential business information (collectively referred to herein as “confidential business information”). Proposals must contain sufficient information to be evaluated. If a vendor feels that they cannot submit their proposal without including confidential business information, they must adhere to the following procedure or their proposal may be deemed unresponsive, may not be recommended for selection, and any applicable protection for the vendor’s confidential business information may be lost.

In order to allow the State to assess its ability to protect a vendor’s confidential business information, vendors will be permitted to designate appropriate portions of their proposal as confidential business information.

Vendor(s) may submit portions of a proposal considered to be confidential business information in a separate, sealed envelope labeled “Confidential Business Information” and include the specific RFP number. The envelope must contain a letter from the Vendor’s legal counsel describing the documents in the envelope, representing in good faith that the information in each document is not “public record” as defined by 29 Del. C. § 10002, and briefly stating the reasons that each document meets the said definitions.

Upon receipt of a proposal accompanied by such a separate, sealed envelope, the State of Delaware will open the envelope to determine whether the procedure described above has been followed. A vendor’s allegation as to its confidential business information shall not be binding on the State. The State shall independently determine the validity of any vendor designation as set forth in this section. Any vendor submitting a proposal or using the procedures discussed herein expressly accepts the State’s absolute right and duty to independently assess the legal and factual validity of any information designated as confidential business information. Accordingly, Vendor(s) assume the risk that confidential business information included within a proposal may enter the public domain.

IV. ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 – Non-Collusion Statement Attachment 2 – Exceptions Attachment 3 – Confidentiality and Proprietary Information Attachment 4 – Business References Attachment 5 – Subcontractor Information Form Attachment 6 – Monthly Usage Report Attachment 7 – Subcontracting (2nd Tier Spend) Report Attachment 8 – Office of Supplier Diversity Certification Application Attachment 9 – Proposal Reply Requirements Appendix A – Minimum Criteria for Submission Checklist Appendix B – Technical Guidelines Appendix C – Proposal Submission Template http://delcode.delaware.gov/title29/c100/index.shtml

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

Appendix D – Budget Appendix E – Terms and Conditions Appendix F – High Demand Occupation List

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

V. PROPOSAL EVALUATION PROCEDURES

A. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

1. STATE’S RIGHT TO REJECT PROPOSALS

Enter Agency Name reserves the right to reject any or all proposals in whole or in part, to make multiple awards, partial awards, award by types, item by item, or lump sum total, whichever is determined to be the most advantageous to the State of Delaware. Vendors submitting proposals may be afforded an opportunity for discussion. Vendors may be requested to provide a best and final offer during the negotiation process. Negotiations may be conducted with responsible Vendors who submit proposals found to be reasonably likely to be selected for award. The contents of any proposal shall not be disclosed so as to be available to competing vendors during the negotiation process.

2. STATE’S RIGHT TO CANCEL SOLICITATION

The State of Delaware reserves the right to cancel this solicitation at any time during the procurement process, for any reason or for no reason. The State of Delaware makes no commitments expressed or implied, that this process will result in a business transaction with any vendor.

This RFP does not constitute an offer by the State of Delaware. Vendor’s participation in this process may result in the State of Delaware selecting your organization to engage in further discussions and negotiations toward execution of a contract. The commencement of such negotiations does not, however, signify a commitment by the State of Delaware to execute a contract nor to continue negotiations. The State of Delaware may terminate negotiations at any time and for any reason, or for no reason.

3. DELIVERY OF PROPOSALS

Each proposal must be submitted with all electronic copies and the proposal checklist confirming the items submitted. All proposals are to be submitted and received no later than 1:00PM (EST) on March 12, 2026. The proposals must be delivered by email to the following contact email address:

DWDBDETContracting@Delaware.gov and in the subject line contain: “BID ENCLOSED: LAB- ISY-26R-001, PROVIDER NAME, ISY Submission”

Any proposal received after the Deadline for Receipt of Proposals date and time shall not be considered and shall not be reviewed. The proposing vendor bears the risk of delays in delivery and any costs. The contents of any proposal shall not be disclosed as to be made available to competing entities during the negotiation process. Upon receipt of vendor proposals, each vendor shall be presumed to be thoroughly familiar with all specifications and requirements of this RFP. The failure or omission to examine any form, instrument or document shall in no way relieve vendors from any obligation in respect to this RFP.

4. PUBLIC OPENING OF PROPOSALS

There will be no public opening of proposals, but a public log will be kept of the names of all vendor organizations that submitted proposals. The contents of any proposal shall not be disclosed in accordance with Executive Order #31 and Title 29, Delaware Code, Chapter 100. Any unopened proposals will be returned to the submitting vendor.

1. AUTHORITY OF AGENCY

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

On all questions concerning the interpretation of specifications, the acceptability and quality of material furnished and/or work performed, the classification of material, the execution of the work, and the determination of payment due or to become due, the decision of the Agency shall be final and binding.

2. OR EQUAL (PRODUCTS BY NAME)

Specifications of products by name are intended to be descriptive of quality or workmanship, finish and performance. Desirable characteristics are not intended to be restrictive. Substitutions of products for those named will be considered provided the vendor certifies that the function, characteristics, performance and endurance qualities of the material offered is equal or superior to that specified.

B. PROPOSAL EVALUATION COMMITTEE

The Proposal Evaluation Committee shall be comprised of at least three (3) members. The Committee must have at least one (1) DWDB board member. Other members will include subject matter experts (determined by the DWDB staff), Department of Labor, those that represent the target population (identified in WIOA section 3(24) as well as veterans and other targeted populations at the DWDB’s discretion). A DWDB member will chair the Committee.

Committee members will remain on the same panel for the entire life of the process. The Committee shall determine which vendors meet the minimum requirements pursuant to selection criteria of the RFP and procedures established in 29 Del. C. §§ 6981 and 6982. Professional services for this solicitation are considered under 29 Del. C. § 6982(b). The Committee may negotiate with one or more vendors during the same period and may, at its discretion, terminate negotiations with any or all vendors. The Committee shall make a recommendation regarding the award to the DWDB Executive Director and the DET Director, who shall have final authority, subject to the provisions of this RFP and 29 Del. C. § 6982(b), to award a contract to the successful vendor in the best interests of the State of Delaware.

Delaware Reserves the right to respond to submitted proposals and create or remove Evaluation Committee(s) as Delaware sees fit.

The Committee reserves the right to:

• Select for contract or for negotiations a proposal other than that with lowest costs.

• Reject any and all proposals or portions of proposals received in response to this RFP or to make no award or issue a new RFP.

• Waive or modify any information, irregularity, or inconsistency in proposals received.

• Request modification to proposals from any or all vendors during the contract review and negotiation.

• Negotiate any aspect of the proposal with any vendor and negotiate with more than one vendor at the same time.

• Select more than one vendor pursuant to 29 Del. C. § 6926. Such selection will be based on the following criteria:

NOTE: If agency does not intend to multi-source, this can be removed

The Delaware Workforce Development Board and the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training reserves the right to reject any or all bids in whole or in part, to make multiple awards, partial awards, award by types, item by item, or lump sum total, whichever may be most advantageous to the State of Delaware.

C. REQUIREMENTS OF THE VENDOR

The purpose of this section is to assist the Proposal Evaluation Committee to determine the ability of the organization to provide the materials and services described in the application. The proposal response should contain at a minimum the following information:

1) General Information

a) Geographical Location

b) Targeted Industry

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

2) Concise Summary of Program

3) Demonstrated Ability

a) Experience and Reputation

b) Capacity to meet requirements (Size, financial condition, etc.)

c) Expertise

4) Program Design

5) Outcomes/Placement

6) Cost/Budget

7) Leveraged Resources

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

D. CRITERIA AND SCORING

EVALUATION CRITERIA POINTS

Demonstrated Ability:

• Provider demonstrates the ability to advertise, recruit, retain and operate like or similar high quality training programs that have resulted in (at a minimum) high employment rates in quality jobs or similar Performance Measures as described.

• Program has or plans to hire qualified staff who can meet the service needs of youth with barriers while holding true to a “no wrong door” policy.

Program Design:

• Program provides superior case management and wrap around services.

• All required program elements are addressed in proposal.

• Program design provides training in Durable/Soft Skills as integrated parts of the training curriculum.

• Linkages are established to provide adequate wrap around services for youth during the 12-month post exit follow up period.

Outcome Placement:

• Provider demonstrates the ability to prepare participants for employment.

• Provider demonstrates the ability to establish solid relationships with local employers to increase work based learning and job placement opportunities.

• Provider demonstrates ability to prepare and educate youth on the variety of post-secondary options including bringing awareness to career and training job opportunities through the American Job Centers.

Cost/Budget

• Costs are reasonable and competitive as compared to other similar programs.

• Costs will be reviewed as a cost per participant and cost per proposed hour trained.

• Budget requires 25% of requested amount be used on Work Experience.

• Indirect Costs are limited by USDOL to 10% of the total budget.

Leverage Resources:

• Braided funding from multiple resources.

Employer Participation:

• At least 3 business partnerships provided.

Digital Literacy

• Program incorporates Digital Literacy.

Artificial Intelligence

• Describes how program will empower and leverage participants to understand AI, so they are able to adapt and thrive in future employment.

TOTAL SCORE 100

Procurement Evaluation Committee members will assign up to the maximum number of points listed for each of the criteria listed above. For items having quantitative answers, points will be proportionate to each proposal’s response.

Items with qualitative answers will receive the average of points assigned by Proposal Evaluation Committee members.

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

E. BEST AND FINAL OFFERS

Once the proposals have been evaluated and negotiations have been held with the vendor(s) determined to be likely to receive an award, the Procurement Evaluation Committee issue a request for Best and Final Offers from the vendor(s).

F. REFERENCES

The Committee may contact any customer of the vendor, whether or not included in the vendor’s reference list, and use such information in the evaluation process. Additionally, the State of Delaware may choose to visit existing installations of comparable systems, which may or may not include vendor personnel. If the vendor is involved in such site visits, the State of Delaware will pay travel costs only for State of Delaware personnel for these visits.

VI. MANDATORY PREBID MEETING

A mandatory pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for February 19, 2026 at 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. This is a mandatory meeting.

If a Vendor does not attend this meeting, they shall be disqualified and shall not be considered for further evaluation.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ODc0NWY4ZTgtOTc0ZC00MGRiLTkxOWMtOTU2ZDM2ZmE4MmM0%40thread.v2/0?context =%7b%22Tid%22%3a%228c09e569-51c5-4dee-abb2-8b99c32a4396%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%229295ce0d-da36- 474e-a9d3-85862f60fac4%22%7d

VII. DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS

The attached Definitions and General Provisions apply to all contracts and are part of each Request for Proposal. The requirement to furnish a bid bond and performance bond is applicable unless waived. Should the General Provisions conflict with the Special Provisions, the Special Provisions shall prevail. Vendors or their authorized representatives are required to fully acquaint themselves as to State procurement laws and regulations prior to submitting bid.

A. DEFINITIONS: Whenever the following terms are used, their intent and meaning shall be interpreted as follows:

STATE: The State of Delaware

AGENCY: State Agency as noted on cover sheet.

BID INVITATION: The "invitation to bid" or “Request for Proposal” is a packet of material sent to vendors and consists of General Provisions, Special Provisions, specifications, and enclosures.

BOND: The approved form of security furnished by the Vendors and its surety as a guaranty of good faith on the part of the Vendor to execute the work in accordance with the terms of the contract.

CONTRACT: The written agreement covering the furnishing and delivery of material or work to be performed.

DESIGNATED OFFICIAL: The agent authorized to act for an Agency.

GENERAL PROVISIONS: General Provisions are instructions pertaining to contracts in general. They contain, in summary, requirements of laws of the State, policies of the Agency, and instructions to vendors.

LOCAL TIME: Eastern Standard Time/Eastern Daylight Time

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

OPPORTUNITY BUY: A special offer from a supplier that is usually associated with a limited time to respond.

PROPOSAL: The offer of the Vendor submitted on the approved form and setting forth the Vendor's prices for performing the work or supplying the material or equipment described in the specifications.

RFP: Request for Proposal.

SPECIAL PROVISIONS: Special Provisions are specific conditions or requirements peculiar to the contract under consideration and are supplemental to the General Provisions. Should the Special Provisions conflict with the General Provisions, the Special Provisions shall prevail.

SURETY: The corporate body which is bound with and for the contract, or which is liable, and which engages to be responsible for the Vendor's payments of all debts pertaining to and for its acceptable performance of the work for which he has contracted

VENDOR: Any individual, firm, or corporation formally submitting a proposal for the material or work contemplated, acting directly or through a duly authorized representative.

VENDOR'S DEPOSIT: The security designated in the proposal to be furnished by the Vendor as a guaranty of good faith to enter into a contract with the Agency if the work to be performed or the material or equipment to be furnished is awarded to it.

Any Contract specific definitions should be included in Appendix B., Technical Guidelines

B. GENERAL PROVISIONS

1. INTERPRETATION OF ESTIMATES/QUANTITIES

a. Unless stated otherwise, the quantities given in the RFP are to be considered to be approximate only and are given as a basis for the comparison of bids. The Agency may increase or decrease the amount of any item as may be deemed necessary or expedient, during the period of the contract. Bidders shall recognize there are no guaranteed minimum contract quantities or values associated with this solicitation.

b. Prior contract utilization may be viewed on the Delaware Open Data Portal https://data.delaware.gov/. The Government and Finance data sets provide Central Contract Line Item Spend by Fiscal Year among several additional data products. Past usage shall not be considered a guaranteed future volume.

2. SILENCE OF SPECIFICATIONS

The apparent silence of the specifications as to any detail, or the apparent omission from it of detailed description concerning any point, shall be regarded as meaning that only the best commercial practice is to prevail and only material and workmanship of the first quality are to be used. Proof of specifications compliance will be the responsibility of the vendor.

3. EXAMINATION OF SPECIFICATIONS AND PROVISIONS

The Vendor shall examine carefully the proposal and the contract forms for the material contemplated. The Vendor shall investigate and satisfy itself as to the conditions to be encountered, quality and quantities of the material to be furnished, and the requirements of any Special Provisions in the RFP and the contract. The submission of a proposal shall be conclusive evidence that the Vendor has made examination of the aforementioned conditions.

https://data.delaware.gov/

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training

4. PRICES QUOTED

The prices quoted are those for which the material will be furnished F.O.B. Ordering Agency and include all charges that may be imposed during the period of the contract. All prices quoted must be in U.S. Dollars.

All vendors that maintain a core list of products under this contract shall maintain the appropriate negotiated prices on their core list. Vendors shall routinely offer to add to the core list materiel that has been identified as necessary.

The Vendors are expected to routinely update any changes to the core list with the appropriate discounts listed.

Any adjustments to a core list must receive prior written approval from the State before a core list can be changed by the Vendor. Changes include but are not limited to the migration of items on and off the core list as well as any price adjustments from the original agreed upon pricing.

5. PUBLIC INSPECTION OF PROPOSALS

All documents submitted as part of the vendor’s proposal will be deemed confidential during the evaluation process.

Vendor proposals will not be available for review by anyone other than the State of Delaware/Proposal Evaluation Committee or its designated agents. There shall be no disclosure of any vendor’s information to a competing vendor prior to award of the contract.

The State of Delaware is a public agency as defined by state law, and as such, it is subject to the Delaware Freedom of Information Act, 29 Del. C. Ch. 100. Under the law, all the State of Delaware’s records are public records (unless otherwise declared by law to be confidential) and are subject to inspection and copying by any person. Vendor(s) are advised that once a proposal is received by the State of Delaware and a decision on contract award is made, its contents will become public record and nothing contained in the proposal will be deemed to be confidential except proprietary information.

Vendor(s) shall not include any information in their proposal that is proprietary in nature or that they would not want to be released to the public. Proposals must contain sufficient information to be evaluated and a contract written without reference to any proprietary information. If a vendor feels that they cannot submit their proposal without including proprietary information, they must adhere to the following procedure or their proposal may be deemed unresponsive and will not be recommended for selection. Vendor(s) must submit such information in a separate Email labeled “Proprietary Information” with the RFP number. The Email must contain a letter from the Vendor’s legal counsel describing the documents in the Email, representing in good faith that the information in each document is not “public record” as defined by 29 Del. C. § 10002(d), and briefly stating the reasons that each document meets the said definitions.

6. LAWS TO BE OBSERVED

The vendor is presumed to know and shall strictly comply with all Federal, State, or County laws, and City or Town ordinances and regulations in any manner affecting the conduct of the work. The Vendor shall indemnify and save harmless the State of Delaware, the Agency, and all Officers, Agency and Servants thereof against any claim or liability arising from or based upon the violation of any such laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, or decrees whether by itself, by its employees, or by its subcontractor (s).

7. APPLICABLE LAW AND JURISDICTION

This bid, any resulting contract, and any and all litigation or other disputes arising therefrom, in connection with, or related hereto shall be governed by the applicable laws, regulations and rules of evidence of the State of Delaware. Bidder submits to personal jurisdiction in the State of Delaware. Any and all litigation or other disputes

Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor, Division of…