RFP 2026-1600-0270_1626-033 - Healthy Alaskans SHIP 4.16.26.pdf

STATE OF ALASKA

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

OFFERORS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO RETURN THIS FORM.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: IF YOU RECEIVED THIS SOLICITATION FROM THE STATE OF ALASKA’S “ONLINE PUBLIC NOTICE”

WEB SITE, YOU MUST REGISTER WITH THE PROCUREMENT OFFICER LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT TO RECEIVE

NOTIFICATION OF SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS. FAILURE TO CONTACT THE PROCUREMENT OFFICER MAY RESULT

IN THE REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER.

ISSUED BY:

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH

PRIMARY CONTACT:

DOROTHY TAUAESE-PULETAPUAI

PROCUREMENT OFFICER

DOROTHY.V.TAUAESE-PULETAPUA@ALASKA.GOV

(907) 444-6313

HEALTHY ALASKANS STATE HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLAN

RFP 2026-1600-0270/1626-033

ISSUED APRIL 16, 2026

THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH, DIRECTOR’S OFFICE, IS SOLICITING PROPOSALS

FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO PLAN AND FACILITATE THE REVISION OF THE STATE HEALTH IMPROVEMENT

PLAN (SHIP), HEALTHY ALASKANS 2030.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION & INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.01 PURPOSE OF THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

SEC. 1.02 BUDGET

SEC. 1.03 DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.04 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 1.05 REQUIRED REVIEW

SEC. 1.06 QUESTIONS PRIOR TO DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.07 RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.08 ASSISTANCE TO OFFERORS WITH A DISABILITY

SEC. 1.09 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.10 AMENDMENTS TO THE RFP

SEC. 1.11 RFP SCHEDULE

SEC. 1.12 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

SEC. 1.13 ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.14 NEWS RELEASES

SECTION 2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SEC. 2.01 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SECTION 3. SCOPE OF WORK & CONTRACT INFORMATION

SEC. 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK

SEC. 3.02 DELIVERABLES

SEC. 3.03 CONTRACT TERM AND WORK SCHEDULE

SEC. 3.04 CONTRACT TYPE

SEC. 3.05 PAYMENT PROCEDURES

SEC. 3.06 CONTRACT PAYMENT

SEC. 3.07 ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS

SEC. 3.08 LOCATION OF WORK

SEC. 3.09 SUBCONTRACTORS

SEC. 3.10 JOINT VENTURES

SEC. 3.11 RIGHT TO INSPECT PLACE OF BUSINESS

SEC. 3.12 CONTRACT PERSONNEL

SEC. 3.13 INSPECTION & MODIFICATION - REIMBURSEMENT FOR UNACCEPTABLE DELIVERABLES

SEC. 3.14 CONTRACT CHANGES - UNANTICIPATED AMENDMENTS

SEC. 3.15 NONDISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

SEC. 3.16 INDEMNIFICATION

SEC. 3.17 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 3.18 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT

SECTION 4. PROPOSAL FORMAT AND CONTENT

SEC. 4.01 RFP SUBMITTAL FORMS

SEC. 4.02 SPECIAL FORMATTING REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 4.03 OFFEROR INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATIONS (SUBMITTAL FORM A)

SEC. 4.04 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS (SUBMITTAL FORM B)

SEC. 4.05 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT (SUBMITTAL FORM C)

SEC. 4.06 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT (SUBMITTAL FORM D)

SEC. 4.07 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT (SUBMITTAL FORM E)

SEC. 4.08 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS (SUBMITTAL FORM F)

SEC. 4.09 SUBCONTRACTORS (SUBMITTAL FORM G)

SEC. 4.10 COST PROPOSAL (SUBMITTAL FORM H)

SECTION 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND CONTRACTOR SELECTION

SEC. 5.01 SUMMARY OF EVALUATION PROCESS

SEC. 5.02 EVALUATION CRITERIA

SEC. 5.03 SCORING METHOD AND CALCULATION

SEC. 5.04 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

SEC. 5.05 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT

SEC. 5.06 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT

SEC. 5.07 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT

SEC. 5.08 CONTRACT COST (COST PROPOSAL)

SEC. 5.09 APPLICATION OF PREFERENCES

SEC. 5.10 ALASKA BIDDER PREFERENCE

SEC. 5.11 ALASKA VETERAN PREFERENCE

SEC. 5.12 ALASKA MILITARY SKILLS PROGRAM PREFERENCE

SEC. 5.13 ALASKA OFFEROR PREFERENCE

SEC. 5.14 COST REASONABLENESS

SEC. 5.15 CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS

SEC. 5.16 OFFEROR NOTIFICATION OF SELECTION

SECTION 6. GENERAL PROCESS AND LEGAL INFORMATION

SEC. 6.01 INFORMAL DEBRIEFING

SEC. 6.02 ALASKA BUSINESS LICENSE AND OTHER REQUIRED LICENSES

SEC. 6.03 STANDARD CONTRACT PROVISIONS

SEC. 6.04 QUALIFIED OFFERORS

SEC. 6.05 PROPOSAL AS PART OF THE CONTRACT

SEC. 6.06 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SEC. 6.07 HUMAN TRAFFICKING

SEC. 6.08 RIGHT OF REJECTION

SEC. 6.09 STATE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARATION COSTS

SEC. 6.10 DISCLOSURE OF PROPOSAL CONTENTS

SEC. 6.11 ASSIGNMENT

SEC. 6.12 SEVERABILITY

SEC. 6.13 SUPPLEMENTAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SEC. 6.14 SOLICITATION ADVERTISING

SEC. 6.15 SITE INSPECTION

SEC. 6.16 CLARIFICATION OF OFFERS

SEC. 6.17 DISCUSSIONS WITH OFFERORS

SEC. 6.18 FEDERALLY IMPOSED TARIFFS

SEC. 6.19 PROTEST

SECTION 7. ATTACHMENTS

SEC. 7.01 ATTACHMENTS

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION & INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.01 PURPOSE OF THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

The Department of Health (DOH), Division of Public Health (DPH), Director’s Office, is soliciting proposals for professional services to plan and facilitate the revision of the State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP), Healthy Alaskans 2030. The contractor will provide a completely revised plan that includes recommendations for enhancing the plan through sustainable expert work groups.

SEC. 1.02 BUDGET

DPH estimates a budget of $120,000.00 for the completion of this project. Proposals priced at more than $120,000.00 will be considered non-responsive.

Approval or continuation of a contract resulting from this RFP is contingent upon legislative appropriation or federal funding.

SEC. 1.03 DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

Proposals must be received no later than 2:00 PM prevailing Alaska Time on April 30, 2026. Late proposals or amendments will be disqualified and not opened or accepted for evaluation.

SEC. 1.04 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

To be considered responsive for this RFP, an offeror must meet the mandatory minimum requirements that are provided in Submittal Form F – Mandatory Requirements. Failure to meet all these requirements will result in immediate disqualification.

SEC. 1.05 REQUIRED REVIEW

Offerors should carefully review this solicitation for defects and questionable or objectionable material.

Comments concerning defects and questionable or objectionable material should be made in writing and received by the procurement officer at least ten days before the deadline for receipt of proposals. This will allow time for the issuance of any necessary amendments. It will also help prevent the opening of a defective proposal and exposure of offeror's proposals upon which award could not be made.

SEC. 1.06 QUESTIONS PRIOR TO DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

All questions must be in writing and directed to the procurement officer at least ten (10) days before the deadline for receipt of proposals. The interested party must confirm telephone conversations in writing.

Two types of questions generally arise. One may be answered by directing the questioner to a specific section of the RFP. These questions may be answered over the telephone. Other questions may be more complex and may require a written amendment to the RFP. The procurement officer will make that decision.

SEC. 1.07 RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

Offerors must submit their proposals via email. The technical proposal and cost proposal must be saved as separate documents and emailed to doh.procurement.proposals@alaska.gov as separate, clearly labeled attachments. The email must contain the RFP number in the subject line.

mailto:doh.procurement.proposals@alaska.gov

The maximum size of a single email (including all text and attachments) that can be received by the state is 25mb (megabytes). If the email containing the proposal exceeds this size, the proposal must be sent in multiple emails that are each less than 25 megabytes.

Please note that email transmission is not instantaneous. Similar to sending a hard copy proposal, if you are emailing your proposal, the state recommends sending it in advance to ensure the email is delivered by the deadline for receipt of proposals.

It is the offeror’s responsibility to contact the above email address to confirm that the proposal has been received.

The state is not responsible for unreadable, corrupt, or missing attachments.

SEC. 1.08 ASSISTANCE TO OFFERORS WITH A DISABILITY

Offerors with a disability may receive accommodation regarding the means of communicating this RFP or participating in the procurement process. For more information, contact the procurement officer no later than ten days prior to the deadline for receipt of proposals.

SEC. 1.09 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS

Amendments to or withdrawals of proposals will only be allowed if acceptable requests are received prior to the deadline that is set for receipt of proposals. No amendments or withdrawals will be accepted after the deadline unless they are in response to the state's request in accordance with 2 AAC 12.290.

SEC. 1.10 AMENDMENTS TO THE RFP

If an amendment is issued before the deadline for receipt of proposals, it will be provided to all who were notified of the RFP and to those who have registered with the procurement officer after receiving the RFP from the State of Alaska Online Public Notice website.

After receipt of proposals, if there is a need for any substantial clarification or material change in the RFP, an amendment will be issued. The amendment will incorporate the clarification or change, and a new date and time established for new or amended proposals. Evaluations may be adjusted as a result of receiving new or amended proposals.

SEC. 1.11 RFP SCHEDULE

RFP schedule set out herein represents the state’s best estimate of the schedule that will be followed. If a component of this schedule, such as the deadline for receipt of proposals, is delayed, the rest of the schedule may be shifted accordingly. All times are Alaska Time.

ACTIVITY TIME DATE

Issue Date / RFP Released 4/16/2026 Pre-Proposal Conference 1:00 PM 4/21/2026

Deadline to Submit Questions 4/23/2026 Deadline for Receipt of Proposals / Proposal Due Date 2:00 PM 4/30/2026

Estimated Proposal Evaluations Complete (PEC) 5/7/2026 Estimated Notice of Intent to Award 5/11/2026

Estimated Contract Issued 5/28/2026

This RFP does not, by itself, obligate the state. The state's obligation will commence when the contract is approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Health, or the Commissioner's designee. Upon written notice to the contractor, the state may set a different starting date for the contract. The state will not be responsible for any work done by the contractor, even work done in good faith, if it occurs prior to the contract start date set by the state.

SEC. 1.12 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

A virtual pre-proposal conference via Microsoft Teams Meeting will be held on April 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM Alaska Time. The purpose of this teleconference is to read through portions of the RFP and discuss the work to be performed with prospective offerors. Any questions that potential offerors have must be sent to the procurement officer in writing. An official question-and-answer amendment will be issued as soon as possible after the teleconference. and allow them to ask questions concerning the RFP.

Microsoft Teams meeting

Join the Meeting Link Meeting ID: 295 653 661 865 94 Passcode: Qy2pg7km

Or call in (audio only):

Dial in by phone +1 907-202-7104,,158837656# United States, Anchorage Find a local number Phone conference ID: 158 837 656#

Join on a video conferencing device Tenant key: 260748889@t.plcm.vc Video ID: 117 215 674 7

Offerors with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the procurement officer before the pre-proposal teleconference date to ensure reasonable accommodations are provided.

SEC. 1.13 ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

Offerors may only submit one proposal for evaluation. In accordance with 2 AAC 12.830, alternate proposals (proposals that offer something different from what is requested) will be rejected.

SEC. 1.14 NEWS RELEASES

News releases related to this RFP will not be made without prior approval of the project director.

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/29565366186594?p=4ZHJDQtOawPPmdPh73 tel:+19072027104,,158837656 https://dialin.teams.microsoft.com/a7c6f1f8-9696-4a81-8a24-ce086d6f3d6b?id=158837656

SECTION 2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SEC. 2.01 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Historical facts and figures: Healthy Alaskans (https://www.healthyalaskans.org/) is an equal partnership between the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) and the State of Alaska, Department of Health (DOH). This project aims to update the State Health Improvement Plan.

(https://www.healthyalaskans.org/reports/state-health-improvement-plan/) through a comprehensive and inclusive process. The SHIP, known as Healthy Alaskans 2030 (HA2030), is composed of fifteen (15) priority health topics containing thirty (30) health objectives. Within each objective, specific evidence-based strategies and actions are recommended to move the state closer to achieving the target. The Healthy Alaskan Scorecards provide a dashboard to measure the health of Alaskans and offer information on population characteristics, social and economic factors, health outcomes, and health equity issues in the state, as well as the health topics of greatest concern to Alaskans. The current Healthy Alaskans Scorecards (dashboard) can be found here:

https://www.healthyalaskans.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/HA2030_Scorecards_10_29_25.html.

The State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) is a long-term, systematic plan to address issues identified in the State Health Assessment. The purpose of the SHIP is to describe how the health department and the community it serves will work together to improve population health in the state. The community, stakeholders, and partners can use a solid SHIP to set priorities, direct the use of resources, and develop and implement projects, programs, and policies. Additional info: The State Health Improvement Plan is informed by the State Health Assessment, available here: https://www.healthyalaskans.org/reports/state-health-assessment/.

Strengths/Challenges: We are looking for a facilitator to bring together approximately fifteen (15) Subject Matter Expert workgroups for input into the revision, with the vendor ultimately producing a revised, finalized State Health Improvement Plan. This is a partnership initiative that will include involvement from organizations across Alaska. Challenges will be identifying technology to support the collaborative process and navigating participation on a virtual platform.

https://www.healthyalaskans.org/ https://www.healthyalaskans.org/reports/state-health-improvement-plan/ https://www.healthyalaskans.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/HA2030_Scorecards_10_29_25.html https://www.healthyalaskans.org/reports/state-health-assessment/

SECTION 3. SCOPE OF WORK & CONTRACT INFORMATION

SEC. 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK

The Department of Health, Division of Public Health, Director’s Office, is soliciting proposals for professional services to revise the State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) to align with Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), Healthy Alaskans 2030. The aim is to enhance the existing SHIP through a collaborative, data-informed process in accordance with PHAB guidance.

The Contractor will manage all aspects of meeting planning and facilitation, including agenda development, invitation distribution, and documentation of key points and action items for up to fifteen (15) work groups.

Additionally, the Contractor will offer strategic recommendations for creating and sustaining engagement of these work groups, including identifying cross-cutting themes across health topics and objectives.

SEC. 3.02 DELIVERABLES

The contractor will be required to provide the following deliverables:

• The Contractor shall facilitate a structured review and update process that engages workgroups comprised of subject matter experts to assess progress toward existing SHIP priorities, identify emerging health issues, and inform refinements to evidence-based strategies, actions, and objectives for each leading health indicator. The process shall be inclusive and transparent, reflecting a broad range of perspectives, including input from subject-matter experts and partners, and consideration of factors that influence population health outcomes. Contractor will be responsible for coordinating workgroups, including scheduling, setting the agenda, taking notes, and tracking progress for each work session.

• Contractor will meet monthly with the Healthy Alaskans Core Team to provide updates on workgroup progress. The Contractor shall produce a final, clear, and accessible process that is suitable for public release and ongoing implementation. The updated SHIP shall clearly present statewide priorities, goals, strategies, and measures in a format that is easy for partners, decision-makers, and the public to understand and use. The final document must meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

2.1 A/AA requirements.

• The Contractor shall identify specific, actionable strategies and processes that can be implemented to support long-term functionality and sustainability of the workgroups. This should include clear steps, recommended structures, and practical approaches for strengthening leadership, participation, accountability, and sustainable performance beyond the contract period.

SEC. 3.03 CONTRACT TERM AND WORK SCHEDULE

The length of the contract will be from the date of award until completion, approximately by May 31, 2027.

SEC. 3.04 CONTRACT TYPE

This contract is a firm fixed price contract.

SEC. 3.05 PAYMENT PROCEDURES

The state will make quarterly payments based on a negotiated payment schedule. Each billing must include an invoice and an itemized progress report, submitted quarterly to the Division of Public Health/Director’s Office.

https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/quickref/?currentsidebar=%23col_customize&versions=2.1&levels=aaa https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/quickref/?currentsidebar=%23col_customize&versions=2.1&levels=aaa

No payment will be made until the progress report and invoice have been approved by the project director.

SEC. 3.06 CONTRACT PAYMENT

No payment will be made until the contract is approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Health or the Commissioner's designee. The state is not responsible for and will not pay local, state, or federal taxes. All costs associated with the contract must be stated in U.S. currency.

For agreements over $500,000, under no conditions will the state be liable for the payment of any interest charges associated with the cost of the contract. Payment for agreements under $500,000 for the undisputed purchase of goods or services provided to a state agency, will be made within 30 days of the receipt of a proper billing or the delivery of the goods or services to the location(s) specified in the agreement, whichever is later. A late payment is subject to 1.5% interest per month on the unpaid balance. Interest will not be paid if there is a dispute or if there is an agreement that establishes a lower interest rate or precludes the charging of interest.

SEC. 3.07 ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS

The State of Alaska prefers that vendors receive payment via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). The contractor may review information concerning the EFT process and access the Electronic Payment Agreement Form for Vendors at the following link: https://doa.alaska.gov/dof/vendor.html.

Any single contract payment of $1 million or higher must be accepted by the contractor via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).

SEC. 3.08 LOCATION OF WORK

The state will not provide workspace for the contractor. The contractor must provide its own workspace.

Travel will not be required for work on this contract.

By signature on their proposal, the offeror certifies that all services provided under this contract by the contractor and all subcontractors shall be performed in the United States.

If the offeror cannot certify that all work will be performed in the United States, the offeror must submit a request, set out in a separate document in their proposal, that provides a detailed description of the portion of work that will be performed outside the United States, where, by whom, and the reason that is necessary.

The request must include a detailed description of the portion of work that will be performed outside the United States, where, by whom, and the reason the waiver is necessary.

Failure to comply with these requirements may cause the state to reject the proposal as non-responsive or cancel the contract.

SEC. 3.09 SUBCONTRACTORS

Subcontractors may be used to perform work under this contract. If an offeror intends to use subcontractors, the offeror must complete the Submittal Form identified in Section 4.02 of this RFP.

An offeror's failure to provide this information with their proposal may cause the state to consider their proposal non-responsive and reject it.

Subcontractor experience shall be considered in determining whether the offeror meets the requirements set forth in Submittal Form F – Mandatory Requirements. Offerors must be specific in Submittal Form F as to which https://doa.alaska.gov/dof/vendor.html subcontractor(s) defined in Submittal Form G – Subcontractors they are citing to meet the specific requirement listed in Submittal Form F.

If a proposal with subcontractors is selected, the state may require a signed written statement from each subcontractor that clearly verifies the subcontractor is committed to provide the good or services required by the contract.

The substitution of one subcontractor for another may be made only at the discretion and prior written approval of the project director or procurement officer.

Note that if the subcontractor will not be performing work within Alaska, they will not be required to hold an Alaska business license.

SEC. 3.10 JOINT VENTURES

Joint ventures will not be allowed.

SEC. 3.11 RIGHT TO INSPECT PLACE OF BUSINESS

At reasonable times, the state may inspect those areas of the contractor's place of business that are related to the performance of a contract. If the state makes such an inspection, the contractor must provide reasonable assistance.

SEC. 3.12 CONTRACT PERSONNEL

Any change of the project team members or subcontractors named in the proposal must be approved, in advance and in writing, by the project director or procurement officer. Changes that are not approved by the state may be grounds for the state to terminate the contract.

SEC. 3.13 INSPECTION & MODIFICATION - REIMBURSEMENT FOR UNACCEPTABLE

DELIVERABLES

The contractor is responsible for the completion of all work set out in the contract. All work is subject to inspection, evaluation, and approval by the project director. The state may employ all reasonable means to ensure that the work is progressing and being performed in compliance with the contract. The project director or procurement officer may instruct the contractor to make corrections or modifications if needed to accomplish the contract’s intent. The contractor will not unreasonably withhold such changes.

Substantial failure of the contractor to perform the contract may cause the state to terminate the contract. In this event, the state may require the contractor to reimburse monies paid (based on the identified portion of unacceptable work received) and may seek associated damages.

SEC. 3.14 CONTRACT CHANGES - UNANTICIPATED AMENDMENTS

During the course of this contract, the contractor may be required to perform additional work. That work will be within the general scope of the initial contract. When additional work is required, the project director will provide the contractor a written description of the additional work and request the contractor to submit a firm time schedule for accomplishing the additional work and a firm price for the additional work. Cost and pricing data must be provided to justify the cost of such amendments per AS 36.30.400.

The contractor will not commence additional work until the procurement officer has secured any required state approvals necessary for the amendment and issued a written contract amendment, approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Health or the Commissioner's designee.

SEC. 3.15 NONDISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

Contractor agrees that all confidential information shall be used only for purposes of providing the deliverables and performing the services specified herein and shall not disseminate or allow dissemination of confidential information except as provided for in this section. The contractor shall hold as confidential and will use reasonable care (including both facility physical security and electronic security) to prevent unauthorized access by, storage, disclosure, publication, dissemination to and/or use by third parties of, the confidential information. “Reasonable care” means compliance by the contractor with all applicable federal and state law, including the Social Security Act and HIPAA. The contractor must promptly notify the state in writing if it becomes aware of any storage, disclosure, loss, unauthorized access to or use of the confidential information.

Confidential information, as used herein, means any data, files, software, information or materials (whether prepared by the state or its agents or advisors) in oral, electronic, tangible or intangible form and however stored, compiled or memorialized that is classified confidential as defined by State of Alaska classification and categorization guidelines provided by the state to the contractor or a contractor agent or otherwise made available to the contractor or a contractor agent in connection with this contract, or acquired, obtained or learned by the contractor or a contractor agent in the performance of this contract. Examples of confidential information include, but are not limited to: technology infrastructure, architecture, financial data, trade secrets, equipment specifications, user lists, passwords, research data, and technology data (infrastructure, architecture, operating systems, security tools, IP addresses, etc.).

If confidential information is requested to be disclosed by the contractor pursuant to a request received by a third party and such disclosure of the confidential information is required under applicable state or federal law, regulation, governmental or regulatory authority, the contractor may disclose the confidential information after providing the state with written notice of the requested disclosure ( to the extent such notice to the state is permitted by applicable law) and giving the state opportunity to review the request. If the contractor receives no objection from the state, it may release the confidential information within 30 days. Notice of the requested disclosure of confidential information by the contractor must be provided to the state within a reasonable time after the contractor’s receipt of notice of the requested disclosure and, upon request of the state, shall seek to obtain legal protection from the release of the confidential information.

The following information shall not be considered confidential information: information previously known to be public information when received from the other party; information freely available to the general public;

information which now is or hereafter becomes publicly known by other than a breach of confidentiality hereof;

or information which is disclosed by a party pursuant to subpoena or other legal process and which as a result becomes lawfully obtainable by the general public.

SEC. 3.16 INDEMNIFICATION

The contractor shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the contracting agency from and against any third-party claim of, or liability for error, omission or negligent act of the contractor under this agreement. The contractor shall not be required to indemnify the contracting agency for a claim of, or liability for, the independent negligence of the contracting agency. If there is a claim of, or liability for, the joint negligent error or omission of the contractor and the independent negligence of the contracting agency, the indemnification and hold harmless obligation shall be apportioned on a comparative fault basis. “Contractor” and “contracting agency”, as used within this and the following article, include the employees, agents and other contractors who are directly responsible, respectively, to each. The term “independent negligence” is negligence other than in the contracting agency’s selection, administration, monitoring, or controlling of the contractor and in approving or accepting the contractor’s work.

SEC. 3.17 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Without limiting contractor's indemnification, it is agreed that contractor shall purchase at its own expense and maintain in force at all times during the performance of services under this agreement the following policies of insurance. Where specific limits are shown, it is understood that they shall be the minimum acceptable limits. If the contractor's policy contains higher limits, the state shall be entitled to coverage to the extent of such higher limits.

Certificates of Insurance must be furnished to the procurement officer prior to beginning work and must provide for a notice of cancellation, non-renewal, or material change of conditions in accordance with policy provisions.

Failure to furnish satisfactory evidence of insurance or lapse of the policy is a material breach of this contract and shall be grounds for termination of the contractor's services. All insurance policies shall comply with and be issued by insurers licensed to transact the business of insurance under AS 21.

Workers' Compensation Insurance: The contractor shall provide and maintain, for all employees engaged in work under this contract, coverage as required by AS 23.30.045, and; where applicable, any other statutory obligations including but not limited to Federal U.S.L. & H. and Jones Act requirements. The policy must waive subrogation against the State.

Commercial Automobile Liability Insurance: covering all vehicles used by the contractor in the performance of services under this agreement with minimum coverage limits of $300,000 combined single limit per claim.

Commercial General Liability Insurance: covering all business premises and operations used by the Contractor in the performance of services under this agreement with minimum coverage limits of $300,000 combined single limit per claim.

SEC. 3.18 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT

If the project director or procurement officer determines that the contractor has refused to perform the work or has failed to perform the work with such diligence as to ensure its timely and accurate completion, the state may, by providing written notice to the contractor, terminate the contractor's right to proceed with part or all of the remaining work.

The procurement officer may also, by written notice, terminate the contract under Administrative Order 352 if the contractor supports or participates in a boycott of the State of Israel.

This clause does not restrict the state's termination rights under the contract provisions of Appendix A, attached in SECTION 7. ATTACHMENTS.

SECTION 4. PROPOSAL FORMAT AND CONTENT

SEC. 4.01 RFP SUBMITTAL FORMS

This RFP contains Submittal Forms, which must be completed by the offeror and submitted as their proposal. An electronic copy of the forms is posted along with this RFP. Offerors shall not re-create these forms, create their own forms, or edit the format structure of the forms unless permitted to do so.

Unless otherwise specified in this RFP, the Submittal Forms shall be the offeror’s entire proposal. Do not include any links or marketing information in the proposal or it may be removed by the procurement officer prior to the proposals being sent to the proposal evaluation committee (PEC).

Any proposal that does not follow these requirements may be deemed non-responsive and rejected.

SEC. 4.02 SPECIAL FORMATTING REQUIREMENTS

The offeror must ensure that their proposal meets all special formatting requirements identified in this section.

Documents and Text: All attachment documents must be written in the English language, be single sided, and be single spaced with a minimum font size of 10. Pictures or graphics may be used if the offeror feels it is necessary to communicate their information, however, be aware of the below requirements for page limits.

Page Limits: Some Submittal Forms listed below have maximum page limit requirements. Offerors must not exceed the maximum page limits. Note, the page limit applies to the front side of a page only (for example, ‘1 Page’ implies that the offeror can only provide a response on one side of a piece of paper).

Submittal Form Maximum

Page Limits

Submittal Form A – Offeror Information and Certifications N/A Submittal Form B – Experience and Qualifications 5 Submittal Form C – Understanding of the Project 5 Submittal Form D – Methodology Used for the Project 5 Submittal Form E – Management Plan for the Project 5 Submittal Form F – Mandatory Requirements N/A Submittal Form G – Subcontractors N/A Submittal Form H – Cost Proposal N/A

Any Submittal Form that is being evaluated and does not follow these instructions may receive a ‘1’ score for the evaluated Submittal Form, or the entire response may be deemed non-responsive and rejected. Failure to submit any of the Submittal Forms will result in the proposal being deemed non-responsive and rejected.

SEC. 4.03 OFFEROR INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATIONS (SUBMITTAL FORM A)

The offeror must complete and submit this Submittal Form. The form must be signed by an individual authorized to bind the offeror to the provisions of the RFP.

By signature on the form, the offeror certifies they comply with the items listed in the Certifications section of the Submittal Form. If the offeror fails to comply with these items, the state reserves the right to disregard the proposal, consider the contractor in default, or terminate the contract.

The Submittal Form also requests the following information:

a) The complete name and address of offeror’s firm along with the offeror’s Tax ID.

b) Information on the person the state should contact regarding the proposal.

c) Names of critical team members/personnel.

d) Addenda acknowledgement.

e) Conflict of interest statement.

f) Alaska preference qualifications.

An offeror's failure to provide this information may cause the proposal to be considered non-responsive and rejected.

SEC. 4.04 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS (SUBMITTAL FORM B)

Offerors must provide details of their specific experience in facilitating and coordinating work across large, multi-disciplinary stakeholder groups to develop and finalize complex strategic or planning documents. This includes experience managing input from numerous subject matter experts and synthesizing diverse perspectives into a clear, cohesive final product.

The contractor should be skilled at organizing and synthesizing substantial volumes of feedback, identifying key themes and areas of consensus, and translating technical and stakeholder input into clear, accessible written content.

Offerors must also provide details on the primary project manager’s specific experience in projects of a similar nature, along with the directly related experience of the overall project team identified in Submittal Form A.

Finally, offerors must provide a description of the organization of the project team and the individual(s) responsible and accountable for the completion of each component and deliverables of the RFP.

SPECIAL NOTE: The offeror shall not disclose their costs in this Submittal Form. This Submittal Form cannot exceed the page limit (as described in Section 4.02).

SEC. 4.05 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT (SUBMITTAL FORM C)

Offerors must provide details that demonstrate their understanding of the requirements of the project and how to meet the state’s needs.

SPECIAL NOTE: The offeror shall not disclose their costs in this Submittal Form. This Submittal cannot exceed the page limit (as described in Section 4.02).

SEC. 4.06 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT (SUBMITTAL FORM D)

Offerors must provide detail that demonstrates the methodology they will employ and how the methodology will serve to accomplish the work and meet the state’s needs.

SPECIAL NOTE: The offeror shall not disclose their costs in this Submittal Form. This Submittal Form cannot exceed the page limit (as described in Section 4.02).

SEC. 4.07 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT (SUBMITTAL FORM E)

Offerors must provide detail that demonstrates the management plan they intend to follow and how the plan will serve to accomplish the work and meet the state's needs.

Offerors must also identify any potential issues, risks, or problems they foresee with this project and how they will address them.

SPECIAL NOTE: The offeror shall not disclose their costs in this Submittal Form. This Submittal Form cannot exceed the page limit (as described in Section 4.02).

SEC. 4.08 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS (SUBMITTAL FORM F)

Offerors must complete and submit this Submittal Form.

SEC. 4.09 SUBCONTRACTORS (SUBMITTAL FORM G)

If using subcontractors, the offeror must complete and submit this Submittal Form.

SEC. 4.10 COST PROPOSAL (SUBMITTAL FORM H)

Offerors must complete and submit this Submittal Form. No additional charges shall be allowed.

SECTION 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND CONTRACTOR SELECTION

SEC. 5.01 SUMMARY OF EVALUATION PROCESS

The state will use the following steps to evaluate and prioritize proposals:

1) Proposals will be assessed for overall responsiveness. Proposals deemed non-responsive will be eliminated from further consideration.

2) A proposal evaluation committee (PEC), made up of at least three state employees or public officials, will evaluate specific parts of the responsive proposals.

3) The Submittal Forms, from each responsive proposal, will be sent to the PEC. No cost information will be shared or provided to the PEC.

4) The PEC will independently evaluate and score the documents based on the degree to which they meet the stated evaluation criteria.

5) After independent scoring, the PEC will have a meeting, chaired by the procurement officer, where the PEC may have a group discussion prior to finalizing their scores.

6) The evaluators will submit their final individual scores to the procurement officer, who will then compile the scores and calculate awarded points as set out in Section 5.03.

7) The procurement officer will calculate scores for cost proposals as set out in Section 5.08 and add those scores to the awarded points along with factoring in any Alaska preferences.

8) The procurement officer may ask for best and final offers from offerors susceptible for award and revise the cost scores accordingly.

9) The state will then conduct any necessary negotiations with the highest scoring offeror and award a contract if the negotiations are successful.

SEC. 5.02 EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated based on their overall value to state, considering both cost and non-cost factors as described below. Note: An evaluation may not be based on discrimination due to the race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, pregnancy, parenthood, disability, or political affiliation of the offeror.

Overall Criteria Weight Responsiveness Pass/Fail Mandatory Requirements Compliance (Submittal Form F) Pass/Fail

Technical Criteria Weight Experience and Qualifications (Submittal Form B) 150 Understanding of the Project (Submittal Form C) 125 Methodology Used for the Project (Submittal Form D) 100 Management Plan for the Project (Submittal Form E) 125

Total 500

Cost Criteria Weight Cost Proposal (Submittal Form H) 400 Total 400

Preference Criteria Weight Alaska Offeror Preference (if applicable) 100 Total 100

TOTAL EVALUATION POINTS AVAILABLE: 1000

SEC. 5.03 SCORING METHOD AND CALCULATION

The PEC will evaluate responses against the questions set out in Sections 5.04 through 5.07 and assign a single score for each section. Offerors’ responses for each section may be rated comparatively against one another with each PEC member assigning a score of 1, 5, or 10 (with 10 representing the highest score, 5 representing the average score, and 1 representing the lowest score). Responses that are similar or lack dominant information to differentiate the offerors from each other will receive the same score. Therefore, it is the offeror’s responsibility to provide dominant information and differentiate themselves from their competitors.

After the PEC has scored each section, the scores for each section will be totaled and the following formula will be used to calculate the amount of points awarded for that section:

1) Maximum Points Available / Maximum Combined PEC Score Possible

2) Combined PEC Score x Result of 1)

Example (Maximum Points Available for the Section = 100):

PEC

Member 1

Score

PEC

Member 2

Score

PEC

Member 3

Score

PEC

Member 4

Score Combined Total Score

Points

Awarded Offeror 1 10 5 5 10 30 75 Offeror 2 5 5 5 5 20 50 Offeror 3 10 10 10 10 40 100

Offeror 1 was awarded 75 points:

Maximum Points Available (100) = 2.5 Maximum Combined PEC Score Possible (40)

Combined PEC Score (30) x 2.5 = Points Awarded (75)

Offeror 2 was awarded 50 points:

Maximum Points Available (100) = 2.5 Maximum Combined PEC Score Possible (40)

Combined PEC Score (20) x 2.5 = Points Awarded (50)

Offeror 3 was awarded 100 points:

Maximum Points Available (100) = 2.5 Maximum Combined PEC Score Possible (40)

Combined PEC Score (40) x 2.5 = Points Awarded (100)

SEC. 5.04 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

This portion of the offeror’s proposal will be evaluated against the following questions:

1) How well did the offer detail their specific experience in facilitating and coordinating work across large, multi-disciplinary stakeholder groups to develop and finalize complex strategic or planning documents?

2) How well did the offeror detail the primary project manager’s experience in projects of a similar nature and the directly related experience of the overall project team?

3) How did the offeror describe the organization of the project team and the individual(s) responsible for and accountable for the completion of each component and deliverables of the RFP?

SEC. 5.05 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT

This portion of the offeror’s proposal will be evaluated against the following questions:

1) How well did the offeror demonstrate their understanding of the project requirements and how to meet the state’s needs?

SEC. 5.06 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT

This portion of the offeror’s proposal will be evaluated against the following questions:

1) How well did the offeror demonstrate the methodology they will employ and how the methodology will serve to accomplish the work and meet the state’s needs?

SEC. 5.07 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT

This portion of the offeror’s proposal will be evaluated against the following questions:

1) How well did the offeror demonstrate their management plan and how that plan will provide service to accomplish the work and meet the state’s needs?

2) To what extent did the offeror identify potential issues, risks, or problems they foresee with this project and how they will address them?

SEC. 5.08 CONTRACT COST (COST PROPOSAL)

Overall, a minimum of 40% of the total evaluation points will be assigned to cost. After the procurement officer applies any applicable preferences, the offeror with the lowest total cost will receive the maximum number of points allocated to cost per 2 AAC 12.260(c). The point allocations for cost on the other proposals will be determined using the following formula:

[(Price of Lowest Cost Proposal) x (Maximum Points for Cost)] ÷ (Cost of Each Higher Priced Proposal)

Example (Max Points for Contract Cost = 400):

Step 1 List all proposal prices, adjusted where appropriate by the application of applicable preferences claimed by the offeror.

Offeror #1 $40,000 Offeror #2 $42,750 Offeror #3 $47,500

Step 2

In this example, the RFP allotted 40% of the available 1,000 points to cost. This means that the lowest cost will receive the maximum number of points.

Offeror #1 receives 400 points.

The reason they receive that amount is because the lowest cost proposal, in this case $40,000, receives the maximum number of points allocated to cost, 400 points.

Offeror #2 receives 374.3 points.

$40,000 lowest cost x 400 maximum points for cost = 16,000,000 ÷ $42,750 cost of Offeror #2’s proposal = 374.3

Offeror #3 receives 336.8 points.

$40,000 lowest cost x 400 maximum points for cost = 16,000,000 ÷ $47,500 cost of Offeror #3’s proposal = 336.8

SEC. 5.09 APPLICATION OF PREFERENCES

Certain preferences apply to all state contracts, regardless of their dollar value. The Alaska Bidder, Alaska Veteran, and Alaska Offeror preferences are the most common preferences involved in the RFP process. Additional preferences that may apply to this procurement are listed below. Guides that contain excerpts from the relevant statutes and codes, explain when the preferences apply and provide examples of how to calculate the preferences are available at the following website:

https://oppm.doa.alaska.gov/policy-oversight/policy-resources/user-guide-matrixes/

• Alaska Products Preference – AS 36.30.332

• Recycled Products Preference – AS 36.30.337

• Local Agriculture and Fisheries Products Preference – AS 36.15.050

• Employment Program Preference – AS 36.30.321(b)

• Alaskans with Disabilities Preference – AS 36.30.321(d)

• Alaska Veteran’s Preference – AS 36.30.321(f)

• Alaska Military Skills Program Preference – AS 36.30.321(l)

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation in the Department of Labor and Workforce Development keeps a list of qualified employment programs and individuals who qualify as persons with a disability. As evidence of a business’ or an individual's right to the Employment Program or Alaskans with Disabilities preferences, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation will issue a certification letter. To take advantage of these preferences, a business or individual must be on the appropriate Division of Vocational Rehabilitation list prior to the time designated for https://oppm.doa.alaska.gov/policy-oversight/policy-resources/user-guide-matrixes/ receipt of proposals. Offerors must attach a copy of their certification letter to the proposal. An offeror's failure to provide this certification letter with their proposal will cause the state to disallow the preference.

SEC. 5.10 ALASKA BIDDER PREFERENCE

An Alaska Bidder Preference of 5% will be applied to the price in the proposal. The preference will be given to an offeror who:

1) holds a current Alaska business license prior to the deadline for receipt of proposals;

2) submits a proposal for goods or services under the name appearing on the offeror’s current Alaska business license;

3) has maintained a place of business within the state staffed by the offeror, or an employee of the offeror, for a period of six months immediately preceding the date of the proposal;

4) is incorporated or qualified to do business under the laws of the state, is a sole proprietorship and the proprietor is a resident of the state, is a limited liability company (LLC) organized under AS 10.50 and all members are residents of the state, or is a partnership under AS 32.06 or AS 32.11 and all partners are residents of the state; and

5) if a joint venture, is composed entirely of ventures that qualify under (1)-(4) of this subsection.

Alaska Bidder Preference Certification Form In order to receive the Alaska Bidder Preference, the proposal must include the Alaska Bidder Preference Certification Form attached to this RFP. An offeror does not need to complete the Alaska Veteran Preference questions on the form if not claiming the Alaska Veteran Preference. An offeror's failure to provide this completed form with their proposal will cause the state to disallow the preference.

SEC. 5.11 ALASKA VETERAN PREFERENCE

An Alaska Veteran Preference of 5%, not to exceed $5,000, will be applied to the price in the proposal. The preference will be given to an offeror who qualifies under AS 36.30.990(2) as an Alaska bidder and is a:

A. sole proprietorship owned by an Alaska veteran;

B. partnership under AS 32.06 or AS 32.11 if a majority of the partners are Alaska veterans;

C. limited liability company organized under AS 10.50 if a majority of the members are Alaska veterans; or

D. corporation that is wholly owned by individuals, and a majority of the individuals are Alaska veterans.

In accordance with AS 36.30.321(i), the bidder must also add value by actually performing, controlling, managing, and supervising the services provided, or for supplies, the bidder must have sold supplies of the general nature solicited to other state agencies, other government, or the general public.

Alaska Veteran Preference Certification In order to receive the Alaska Veteran Preference, the proposal must include the Alaska Bidder Preference Certification Form attached to this RFP. An offeror's failure to provide this completed form with their proposal will cause the state to disallow the preference.

SEC. 5.12 ALASKA MILITARY SKILLS PROGRAM PREFERENCE

An Alaska Military Skills Program Preference of 2%, not to exceed $5,000, will be applied to the price in the proposal. The preference will be given to an offeror who qualifies under AS 36.30.990(2) as an Alaska bidder and:

A. Employs at least one person who is currently enrolled in, or within the previous two years graduated from, a United States Department of Defense SkillBridge or United States Army career skills program for service members or spouses of service members that offers civilian work experience through specific industry training, pre-apprenticeships, registered apprenticeships, or internships during the last 180 days before a service member separates or retires from the service; or

B. has an active partnership with an entity that employs an apprentice through a program described above.

Alaska Military Skills Program Preference Certification In order to receive the Alaska Military Skills Program Preference, the proposal must include the Alaska Bidder Preference Certification Form attached to this RFP. An offeror's failure to provide this completed form with their proposal will cause the state to disallow the preference.

In addition, proof of graduation of the qualifying employee from an eligible program as described in AS 36.30.321(l) must be provided to the procurement officer at time of proposal submission. Offerors must provide clarification or additional information requested by the procurement officer related to the preference not later than 5:00 PM Alaska Time one (1) business day following the date of the request. Failure to provide sufficient documentation will result in the offeror not receiving the Military Skills Program Preference.

SEC. 5.13 ALASKA OFFEROR PREFERENCE

Per…