Memo ITN 25-02 Validation Summary – Shortlist.pdf

This memorandum from the Florida Prepaid College Board, dated March 24, 2026, documents the validation summary and shortlist results for Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) 25-02, issued by Leon County, Florida, for comprehensive advertising, digital marketing, partnerships, and public relations services. The procurement encompasses two primary components: (1) Advertising and Creative Services, Digital Marketing, and Social Media Services, and (2) Public Relations, Partnerships, and Events. Following evaluation of submitted proposals, six firms have been shortlisted to advance to the negotiation phase: St John, CCOM Group, Zimmerman Agency, Refuel Public Relations, Moore, and Sachs Media. The ITN had a full response deadline of January 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM (ET). The Board intends to award contracts to up to two firms with an initial three-year term from 2026 through 2029, with potential for three additional one-year extensions. Services will be structured as retainer-based fees for core activities with additional project-based work available on a passthrough or hourly rate basis. Respondents were required to demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in the financial services industry, maintain an active Florida business presence, and meet specific financial thresholds of $15 million in annual billings for advertising services or $5 million for public relations services.

The evaluation process utilized a 1,000-point scoring system assessing organizational and strategic experience (400 points), work examples from January 1, 2022 onward (400 points), and pricing schedules (200 points). The combined annual marketing budgets for the Prepaid/Investment, ABLE United, and Foundation programs range from $22.5 million to $28.5 million. The contract requires designated Contract Managers to attend quarterly Board meetings, participate in monthly conference calls, and meet with executive leadership. Monthly invoicing is permitted with Board approval required for expense incurrals, and the Board retains the right to withhold up to 50 percent of invoices for nonperformance. Subcontractors require prior written Board approval, and broadcast media and print production charges must be supported by competitive bids from at least two companies unless otherwise approved. The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises.