RFP 230000002104 - 10 Cents A Meal for Michigan's Kids & Farms - Farm Guide.pdf

Mich igan .gov/MiProcurement

RFP 230000002104 Page 1 of 57

PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS

Department of Education

Request for Proposal No. 230000002104 10 Cents A Meal for Michigan’s Kids & Farms - Farm Guide

Solicitation Manager Name: Carol Munroe Direct Phone:517-241-3329

Email: munroec@michigan.gov

This is a Request for Proposal (RFP) for:

Services to provide research, analysis, and development of a comprehensive resource guide for Michigan’s Farmers/Producers and USDA Child Nutrition

Program Sponsors. Service must include summary of collected data and strategies to display and share resources.

RFP Timeline Event Time Date

RFP issue date N/A Thursday, April 27, Deadline for bidders to submit questions about this RFP

12:00 p.m. Eastern Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Anticipated date the State will post answers to bidder questions on www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS

NA Friday, May 5, Proposal deadline* 2:00 p.m. Eastern Thursday, May 11, Anticipated contract begin date N/A Wednesday, June 21, 2023

*A bidder’s proposal received at 2:00:01 p.m. Eastern is late and subject to disqualification.

This RFP is subject to change. Check www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS for current information.

http://www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS

RFP 230000002104 Page 2 of 57

1. PROPOSAL PREPARATION. The State recommends reading all RFP materials prior to preparing a proposal, particularly these Proposal Instructions and the Vendor Questions Worksheet. Bidders must follow these Proposal Instructions and provide a complete response to the items indicated in the table below. References and links to websites or external sources may not be used in lieu of providing the information requested in the RFP within the proposal. Include the bidder’s company name in the header of all documents submitted with your proposal. Note that all documents and information submitted as part of a proposal will become public record immediately upon receipt by the State. Proposals received by the State may be posted on the State’s publicly available website after bidders are notified of the award recommendation.

RFP Structure and Documentation Document Description Bidder Response Instructions

Cover Page Provides RFP title and number, important dates, and contact information for Solicitation Manager

Informational

Proposal Instructions Provides RFP instructions to bidders

Informational

Confidential Treatment Form

Required verification on whether bidder’s proposal contains confidential information

Bidder to complete and submit by proposal deadline

Vendor Questions Worksheet

Questions to bidders on background and experience

Bidder to complete and submit by proposal deadline

Schedule A – Statement of Work

Statement of work Bidder to complete and submit by proposal deadline

Schedule B – Pricing Pricing for goods and services sought by the State through this RFP

Bidder to complete and submit by proposal deadline

Contract Terms Provides legal terms for a contract awarded through this RFP

Deemed accepted by bidder unless information required in the Evaluation Process section of this document is submitted by proposal deadline

RFP 230000002104 Page 3 of 57

2. CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE STATE. The sole point of contact for the State concerning this RFP is:

Carol Munroe, Solicitation Manager 517-241-3329 munroec@michigan.gov Jenny Manar 517-335-0543 manarj@michigan.gov

Contacting any other State personnel, agent, consultant, or representative about this RFP may result in bidder disqualification.

3. MODIFICATIONS. The State may modify this RFP at any time. Modifications will be posted on www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS. This is the only method by which the RFP may be modified.

4. QUESTIONS. Bidder questions about this RFP must be emailed Carol Munroe at munroec@michigan.gov and Jenny Manar a manarj@michigan.gov or posted on www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS] to the Solicitation Manager no later than 12:00 p.m.

EDT on May 3, 2023 as specified on the Cover Page. In the interest of transparency, only written questions are accepted. Answers to questions will be posted on www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS. Submit questions using the format below; a Microsoft Excel format or similar is suggested.

Q # Document and Section Page # Bidder Question

5. DELIVERY OF PROPOSAL. Proposals are due May 11, 2023, by 2:00 p.m. EST.

Electronic – The bidder must submit its proposal, all attachments, and any modifications or withdrawals electronically through www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS.

The price proposal should be saved separately from all other proposal documents.

The bidder should submit all documents in a modifiable (native) format (examples include but are not limited to Microsoft Word or Excel and Google Docs or Sheets). In addition to submitting documents in a modifiable format, the bidder may also submit copies of documents in PDF. Attachment file size is limited to 6 MB per document.

Bidder’s failure to submit a proposal as required may result in disqualification. The proposal and attachments must be fully uploaded and submitted prior to the proposal deadline. Do not wait until the last minute to submit a proposal, as the SIGMA VSS system requires the creation of an account and entry of certain information, in addition to uploading and submitting the materials. The SIGMA VSS system will not allow a proposal to be submitted after the proposal deadline identified in the solicitation Closing On/Closing Date fields (Summary view/Detail view), even if a portion of the proposal has been uploaded.

mailto:munroec@michigan.gov mailto:manarj@michigan.gov http://www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS mailto:munroec@michigan.gov mailto:manarj@michigan.gov http://www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS

RFP 230000002104 Page 4 of 57

Questions on how to submit information or how to navigate in the SIGMA VSS system can be answered by calling (517) 284-0540 or (888) 734-9749. The Solicitation Manager will not provide assistance related to the submittal of the proposal and all attachments on the day of the proposal deadline. Responsibility for a complete submission lies with the bidder. Note that all documents and information submitted in any manner as part of a proposal will become public record immediately upon receipt by the State. Proposals received may be posted by the State on the State’s publicly available website after bidders are notified of the award recommendation.

6. EVALUATION PROCESS The State will evaluate each proposal based on the following factors:

Technical Evaluation Criteria Weight

1.

Requirements, Communication, Project Monitoring/Tracking, Project Management, Schedule A, Statement of Work, Section 2

2. Service Requirements, Schedule A, Statement of Work, Section 3 20

3. Staffing, Schedule A, Statement of Work, Section 4 20

4. Vendor Questions Worksheet 20 Total 100

Proposals receiving 80 or more technical evaluation points will have pricing evaluated and considered for award.

The State may utilize all bidder information, without regard to a proposal’s technical score, to determine fair market value for goods or services sought. The State is not obligated to accept the lowest price proposal. If applicable, the State’s evaluation will include consideration of a bidder’s qualified disabled veterans/service-disabled veteran owned business(QDV/SDVOB) status under MCL 18.1261(8). Additional information on the SDVOB preference is available at: Michigan.gov/SDVOB.

The State strongly encourages strict adherence to the Contract Terms. The State reserves the right to deem a bid non-responsive for failure to accept the Contract Terms. Nevertheless, the bidder may submit proposed changes to the Contract Terms in track changes (i.e., visible edits) with an explanation of the bidder’s need for each proposed change. Failure to include track changes with an explanation of the bidder’s need for the proposed change constitutes the bidder’s acceptance of the Contract Terms. General statements, such as that the bidder reserves the right to negotiate the terms and conditions, may be considered non-responsive. Failure to respond timely to requests for proposed changes to Contract Terms during ongoing negotiations may be cause for disqualification.

The State may but is not required to conduct an on-site visit to tour and inspect the bidder’s facilities; require an oral presentation of the bidder's proposal; conduct interviews, research, reference checks, and background checks; and request additional price concessions at any point during the evaluation process.

7. NOTICE OF DEFICIENCY. The State reserves the right to issue a Notice of Deficiency to bidders if the State determines after the proposal deadline that a http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(12rtpbjmznw1mn4opquus2gz))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=mcl-18-1261 https://www.michigan.gov/SDVOB

RFP 230000002104 Page 5 of 57 portion of the RFP was deficient, unclear, or ambiguous. Failure to respond to a Notice of Deficiency timely may be cause for disqualification.

8. CLARIFICATION REQUEST. The State reserves the right to issue a Clarification Request to a bidder to clarify its proposal if the State determines the proposal is not clear. Failure to respond to a Clarification Request timely may be cause for disqualification.

9. RESERVATIONS. The State reserves the right to:

a. Disqualify a bidder for failure to follow these instructions.

b. Discontinue the RFP process at any time for any or no reason. The issuance of an RFP, your preparation and submission of a proposal, and the State’s subsequent receipt and evaluation of your proposal does not commit the State to award a contract to you or anyone, even if all the requirements in the RFP are met.

c. Consider late proposals if: (i) no other proposals are received; (ii) no complete proposals are received; (iii) the State received complete proposals, but the proposals did not meet mandatory minimum requirements or technical criteria; or

(iv) the award process fails to result in an award.

d. Consider an otherwise disqualified proposal if no other proposals are received.

e. Disqualify a proposal based on: (i) information provided by the bidder in response to this RFP; (2) the bidder’s failure to complete registration on www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS ; or (3) if it is determined that a bidder purposely or willfully submitted false or misleading information in response to the RFP.

f. Consider prior performance with the State in making its award decision.

g. Consider overall economic impact to the State when evaluating proposal pricing and in the final award recommendation. This includes but is not limited to:

considering principal place of performance, number of Michigan citizens employed or potentially employed, dollars paid to Michigan residents, Michigan capital investments, job creation, tax revenue implications, and economically disadvantaged businesses.

h. Consider total-cost-of-ownership factors (e.g., transition and training costs) when evaluating proposal pricing and in the final award recommendation.

i. Refuse to award a contract to any bidder that has failed to pay State taxes or has outstanding debt with the State.

j. Enter into negotiations with one or more bidders on price, terms, technical requirements, or other deliverables.

k. Award multiple, optional-use contracts, or award by Contract Activity.

l. Evaluate the proposal outside the scope identified in the Evaluation Process section of this document if the State receives only one proposal.

10. AWARD RECOMMENDATION. The contract will be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder who offers the best value to the State, as determined by the State.

Best value will be determined by the bidder meeting the minimum point threshold and

RFP 230000002104 Page 6 of 57 offering the best combination of the factors stated in the Evaluation Process section of this document, and price, as demonstrated by the proposal. The State will post an Award Recommendation and Evaluation Synopsis on www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS or in the manner it was originally published

11. DEBRIEF MEETING AND BID PROTEST. The State will post an Award Recommendation and Evaluation Synopsis which will provide instructions on how to request a debrief meeting.

If you wish to initiate a protest of the award, you must submit your written protest to Carol Munroe at munroec@michigan.gov & Jenny Manar at manarj@michigan.gov no later than 12:00 p.m., seven (7) business days after the posting of the Award Recommendation and Evaluation Synopsis. The State reserves the right to adjust this timing and will publish any change.

Additional information about the protest process is available at DTMB - Programs and Policies (michigan.gov) under the “Bidder Protests” link.

12. STATE ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD. Contracts equal to $250,000 or greater than require approval by the State Administrative Board. The State Administrative Board’s decision is final; however, its approval does not constitute a contract. The award process is not complete until the awarded contractor receives a contract fully executed by all parties.

13. GENERAL CONDITIONS. The State will not be liable for any costs, expenses, or damages incurred by a bidder participating in this solicitation. The bidder agrees that its proposal will be considered an offer to do business with the State in accordance with its proposal, including the Contract Terms, and that its proposal will be irrevocable and binding for a period of [180] calendar days from date of submission.

If a contract is awarded to the bidder, the State may, at its option, incorporate any part of the bidder’s proposal into a contract. This RFP is not an offer to enter into a contract. This RFP may not provide a complete statement of the State’s environment or contain all matters upon which agreement must be reached. The bidder understands that their proposal will become public record immediately upon receipt by the State. Other than verified trade secrets, proposals submitted via www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS are the State’s property.

14. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FORM AND THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION

ACT. As a public record, all portions of the bidder’s proposal and resulting contract are subject to disclosure as required under Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231, et seq. However, the State may exempt some information from disclosure as permitted by law. Under MCL 18.1261(13)(b), records containing “a trade secret as defined under section 2 of the uniform trade secrets act, 1998 PA 448, MCL 445.1902,” are exempt from disclosure under FOIA. In addition, “financial or proprietary information” submitted with a bidder’s proposal is exempt from disclosure under FOIA. A bidder’s failure to comply with this Section is grounds for rejecting a bidder’s proposal as non-responsive. As a part of its proposal, each bidder must follow the procedure below.

a. SUBMIT A COMPLETED “CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FORM” (CT FORM)

WITH YOUR BID. Completion and submission of the CT Form is required http://www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS mailto:munroec@michigan.gov mailto:manarj@michigan.gov https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fdtmb%2Fprocurement%2Fcontractconnect%2Fprograms-and-policies&data=05%7C01%7CMarpleA%40michigan.gov%7C36259407b7714f2fc9b608da4d2f9a34%7Cd5fb7087377742ad966a892ef47225d1%7C0%7C0%7C637907164092143816%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9%2F9Df8aIcjEZ0FFOBpbCkgMx6x844b20gK2zRJR7ZVE%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fdtmb%2Fprocurement%2Fcontractconnect%2Fprograms-and-policies&data=05%7C01%7CMarpleA%40michigan.gov%7C36259407b7714f2fc9b608da4d2f9a34%7Cd5fb7087377742ad966a892ef47225d1%7C0%7C0%7C637907164092143816%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9%2F9Df8aIcjEZ0FFOBpbCkgMx6x844b20gK2zRJR7ZVE%3D&reserved=0

RFP 230000002104 Page 7 of 57 regardless of whether the bidder seeks confidential treatment of information.

Failure to submit a completed CT Form may be cause for disqualification from the solicitation process. If a bidder fails to properly complete and submit the CT Form or otherwise fails to follow CT Form instructions, the proposal may be publicly disclosed in its entirety without redaction after an award recommendation.

i. Complete and sign Section 1 of the CT Form if the bidder does NOT request confidential treatment of information contained in its proposal; or

ii. Complete and sign Section 2 of the CT Form if the bidder requests confidential treatment of certain information. Bidder must also submit a “Public Copy” of the proposal with the trade secret, financial, and proprietary information redacted and clearly labeled as the “Public Copy.”

iii. Failure to complete and sign a CT Form may result in disqualification of the bidder. If a bidder fails to properly complete and submit the CT Form or otherwise fails to follow the CT Form instructions, the proposal, in its entirety, will be treated as a “Public Copy” and may be publicly disclosed by the State without redaction after bidders have been notified of an award recommendation

b. FOIA REQUESTS. If a FOIA request is made for a bidder’s proposal, the Public Copy may be distributed to the public along with the bidder’s CT Form. The CT Form is a public document and serves as an explanation for the redactions to the Public Copy. Do not put any trade secret, financial, or proprietary information in the CT Form. Do not redact the CT Form itself.

c. NO ADVICE. The State will not advise a bidder as to the nature or content of documents entitled to protection from disclosure under FOIA or other laws, as to the interpretation of such laws, or as to the definition of trade secret or financial or proprietary information. Nothing contained in this provision will modify or amend requirements and obligations imposed on the State by FOIA or other applicable law.

d. FAILURE TO REQUEST CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT. Failure to request material be treated as confidential as specified herein relieves the State, its agencies, and personnel from any responsibility for maintaining material in confidence.

e. Bids containing a request to maintain an entire proposal as confidential may be rejected as non-responsive. Bidders may not request confidential treatment with respect to resumes, pricing, and marketing materials. The State reserves the right to determine whether material designated as exempt by a bidder falls under MCL

18.1261 or other applicable FOIA exemptions. If a FOIA request is made for materials that the bidder has identified as trade secret, financial, or proprietary information, the State has the final authority to determine whether the materials are exempt from disclosure under FOIA.

f. Bidder forever releases the State, its departments, subdivisions, officers, and employees from all claims, rights, actions, demands, damages, liabilities, expenses and fees, which arise out of or relate to the disclosure of all or a portion

RFP 230000002104 Page 8 of 57 of bidder’s proposal submitted under this RFP. Bidder must defend, indemnify and hold the State, its departments, subdivisions, officers, and employees harmless, without limitation, from and against all actions, claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs, attorney fees, and expenses (including those required to establish the right to indemnification), arising out of or relating to any FOIA request, including potential litigation and appeals, related to the portion of bidder’s proposal submitted under this RFP that bidder has identified as a trade secret, or financial or proprietary information. The State will notify bidder in writing if indemnification is sought. The State is entitled to: (i) regular updates on proceeding status; (ii) participate in the defense of the proceeding; (iii) employ its own counsel; and to

(iv) retain control of the defense, or any portion thereof, if the State deems necessary. Bidder will not, without the State’s written consent (not to be unreasonably withheld), settle, compromise, or consent to the entry of any judgment in or otherwise seek to terminate any claim, action, or proceeding. If a State employee, official, or law is involved or challenged, the State may control the defense of that portion of the claim. Any litigation activity on behalf of the State, or any of its subdivisions under this Section, must be coordinated with the Department of Attorney General. An attorney designated to represent the State may not do so until approved by the Michigan Attorney General and appointed as a Special Assistant Attorney General.

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CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FORM

INSTRUCTIONS. Bidder must complete either Section 1 or Section 2 of this CT Form and sign where indicated. Do not complete both sections. This CT Form must be signed by the individual who signed the bidder’s proposal. A completed CT Form must be submitted with your proposal, regardless of whether your proposal contains confidential information.

Failure to submit a completed CT Form with your bid is grounds for rejecting the proposal as non-responsive. If a bidder fails to properly complete and submit the CT Form or otherwise fails to follow CT Form Instructions, the proposal, in its entirety, will be treated as a “Public Copy” and may be publicly disclosed by the State without redaction after bidders have been notified of an award recommendation. See the Confidential Treatment Form and The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) sections of the Proposal Instructions for additional information

Section 1. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT IS NOT REQUESTED This section must be completed, signed, and submitted with the proposal if the bidder does not request confidential treatment of any material contained in the proposal. If this section is completed, do not complete Section 2. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT IS

REQUESTED.

By signing below, the bidder affirms that confidential treatment of material contained in their proposal is not requested.

230000002104

RFP Number

10 Cents A Meal for Michigan’s Kids & Farms - Farm Guide Research

RFP Title

Signature

Date

Printed Name, Title, Company

RFP 230000002104 Page 10 of 57

Section 2. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT IS REQUESTED This section must be completed, signed, and submitted with the proposal if bidder requests confidential treatment of any material contained in the proposal. Submission of a completed CT Form is required to request confidential treatment. If this section is completed, do not complete Section 1. CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT IS NOT

REQUESTED.

Provide the information in the table below. Bidder may add rows or additional pages using the same format shown in the table. Bidder must specifically identify the information to be protected as confidential and state the reasons why protection is necessary.

The CT Form will not be considered fully complete unless, for each confidentiality request, the bidder: (1) identifies the Proposal Page #, Section #, and Paragraph #, (2) identifies whether the material is a Trade Secret (TS), Proprietary Financial Information (FI), or Proprietary Information (PI), and (3) explains the specific legal grounds that support treatment of the material as TS, FI, or PI. Bidders must provide a complete justification as to how the material falls within the scope of an applicable FOIA exemption or relevant case law. Bidders must not simply cite to an applicable exemption or case name. Bidders must also provide the contact information for the person at their organization authorized to respond to inquiries by the State concerning the material.

Bidder must also submit a “Public Copy” of the proposal with the trade secret, financial, and proprietary information redacted and clearly labeled as the “Public Copy”.

(1) Proposal Page #, Section #, Paragraph #

(2) Material is Trade Secret

(TS), Proprietary Financial Information

(FI), Proprietary Information (PI)

(3) Applicable FOIA Exemption with

Written Justification

(4) Bidder Contact

Information

By signing below, the bidder affirms that confidential treatment of material contained in their proposal is requested and has attached to this form a redacted “Public Copy” of the bidder’s proposal.

230000002104

RFP Number

10 Cents A Meal for Michigan’s Kids & Farms - Farm Guide Research

RFP Title

Signature

Date

Printed Name, Title, Company

RFP 230000002104 Page 11 of 57

VENDOR QUESTIONS WORKSHEET

Provide a detailed response to each question. “You” and “company” refers to the bidder.

If space is limited additional attachment can be used.

Information Sought Bidder Response

1. Contact Information Bidder’s sole contact person during the RFP process. Include name, title, address, email, and phone number.

Person authorized to receive and sign a resulting contract. Include name, title, address, email, phone number and vendor customer code in SIGMA VSS.

Program Manager – Person assigned to handle the day to day activities of a resulting contract – Provide, name, title, address, phone, email.

Contract Administrator – Person authorized to modify any terms, approve and execute any changes of a resulting contract – Provide name, title, address, phone, email.

Notices – Person authorized to provide communications in writing and considered the source to receive any notices related to a resulting contract – Provide name, title, address, phone, email.

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Information Sought Bidder Response

2. Resumes: Provide names, title and resume(s) of key personnel that would be assigned to a resulting contract and their assigned roles.

3. Company Background Information Legal business name and address. Include business entity designation, e.g., sole proprietor, Inc., LLC, or LLP.

What state was the company formed in?

Phone number.

Website address.

Number of years in business.

Number of employees.

Legal business name and address of parent company, if any.

Has there been a recent change in organizational structure (e.g., management team) or control (e.g., merger or acquisition) of your company? If the answer is yes: (a) explain why the change occurred and (b) how this change has affected your company.

Discuss your company’s history. Has growth been organic, through mergers and acquisitions, or both?

Has bidder ever been debarred, suspended, or disqualified from bidding or contracting with any entity, including the State of Michigan? If yes, provide the date, the entity, and details about the situation.

Has your company been a party to litigation against the State of Michigan? If the answer is yes, then state the date of initial filing, case name and court number, and jurisdiction.

RFP 230000002104 Page 13 of 57

Within the last 5 years, has your company or any of its related business entities defaulted on a contract or had a contract terminated for cause? If yes, provide the date, contracting entity, type of contract, and details about the termination or default.

State your gross annual sales for each of the last 5 years.

If receiving a contract under this RFP will increase your gross revenue by more than 25% from last year’s sales, explain how the company will scale-up to manage this increase.

Describe partnerships and strategic relationships you think will bring significant value to the State.

State the physical address of the place of business that would have primary responsibility for this account if bidder is awarded a contract under this RFP.

4. Qualified Disabled Veteran/Service- Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Program

Under MCL 18.1261, a “qualified disabled veteran” means a business entity that is 51% or more owned by 1 or more veterans with a service-connected disability. A “service-connected disability” means a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty in the active military, naval, or air service as described in 38 USC 101(16). Are you a qualified disabled veteran?

Enter YES or NO.

To demonstrate qualification as a qualified disabled veteran, you must provide:

(a) Proof of service and conditions of discharge (DD214 or equivalent);

(b) Proof of service-connected disability (DD214 if the disability was documented at discharge or Veterans Administration Rating Decision Letter or equivalent if the disability was documented after discharge); and

Enter the names of documents submitted with your proposal to demonstrate status as a qualified disabled veteran.

http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(b2idoibk3wwdcrok5bm0s021))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=mcl-18-1261

RFP 230000002104 Page 14 of 57

(c) Legal documents setting forth the ownership of the business entity.

In lieu of the documentation identified above, you may provide proof of certification by the National Veterans Business Development Council.

5. Participation in RFP Development or

Evaluation

Did your company, an employee, agent, or representative of your company, or any affiliated entity participate in developing any component of this solicitation? For purposes of this question, business concerns, organizations, or individuals are affiliates of each other if, directly or indirectly: (1) either one controls or has power to control the other or (2) a third-party controls or has the power to control both. Indicia of control include, but are not limited to, interlocking management or ownership, identity of interests among family members, shared facilities or equipment, and common use of employees.

Enter YES or NO.

If you enter “YES”, you are not eligible for contract award or to work as a subcontractor for the awarded vendor.

If you are awarded a contract under this solicitation, in order to provide the goods or services required under a resulting contract, do you intend to partner or subcontract with a person or entity that assisted in the development of this solicitation?

Enter YES or NO.

If you enter “YES,” you are not eligible for contract award. An awarded vendor may not partner or subcontract with anyone to provide goods and services required under a resulting contract if that subcontractor or partner assisted in the development of this solicitation.

Will your company, or an employee, agent, or representative of your company, participate in the evaluation of the proposals received in response to this RFP?

Enter YES or NO.

If you enter “YES”, you are not eligible for contract award or to work as a subcontractor for the awarded vendor.

6. State of Michigan Experience and Prior Experience

Does your company have experience working with the State of Michigan? If so, please provide a list (including the contract number) of the contracts you hold or have held with the State for the last 10 years.

RFP 230000002104 Page 15 of 57

Describe at least [3]relevant experiences from the last [5] years supporting your ability to successfully manage a contract of similar size and scope for the work described in this RFP.

Experience 1 Company name.

Contact name.

Contact role at time of project.

Contact phone.

Contact email.

City.

State.

Zip.

1. Project name and description of the scope of the project.

2. What role did your company play?

3. How is this project experience relevant to the subject of this RFP?

Dollar value.

Start and end date (mm/yy – mm/yy) Status (completed, live, other – specify phase) Results obtained.

Experience 2 Company name.

Contact name.

Contact role at time of project.

2. What role did your company play?

RFP 230000002104 Page 16 of 57

Start and end date (mm/yy – mm/yy) Status (completed, live, other – specify phase) Results obtained.

Experience 3 Company name.

Contact name.

Contact role at time of project.

2. What role did your company play?

Start and end date (mm/yy – mm/yy) Status (completed, live, other – specify phase) Results obtained.

7. Standard Contract Terms Bidder must affirm agreement with the attached Contract Terms. If not in agreement, written exceptions in accordance with the Evaluation Process section of the Proposal Instructions must be provided with Bidder’s proposal.

8. Michigan Economic Impact Number of employees currently employed at locations within the State of Michigan.

Number of additional employees to be employed at locations within the State of Michigan if awarded this Contract (if any).

Minimum wage paid to employees employed at

RFP 230000002104 Page 17 of 57

Average wage paid to employees employed at

Percentage of employees employed at locations within the State of Michigan that are covered by employer-provided health insurance.

9. Labor, Antidiscrimination and Environmental Laws Compliance

Bidder must disclose any violations of state or federal labor, antidiscrimination and employment laws and regulations received within the past five years.

Bidder must disclose any violations of state or federal environmental laws and regulations received within the past five years.

10. Supplier Diversity Does your company have a supplier diversity program or training?

Enter YES or NO.

Bidder agrees that if Bidder is awarded a contract with a dollar amount of $500,000 or greater from this RFP, Bidder shall provide a copy of their current EEO-1 demographic report provided that Bidder meets Federal requirements to file an EEO-1 report.

Enter YES or NO.

11. Other Classification of Employees. I certify that the company has properly classified its employees in accordance with federal/state labor and employment laws.

Enter YES or NO.

Abusive Labor Practices. The Contractor certifies that it will not furnish any Deliverable that was produced fully or partially by forced labor, forced or indentured child labor, or indentured servitude.

Enter YES or NO.

Certification of Michigan Business - Public Act 431 of 1984, Sec. 268. I certify that the company has, pursuant to the provisions of Sec 268 of Public Act 431 of 1984, filed a Michigan Business Tax Corporate Income Tax Return. I certify that the company has, pursuant to the provisions of Sec 268 of Public Act 431 of 1984, Enter YES or NO.

RFP 230000002104 Page 18 of 57 filed a Michigan Income Tax return showing income generated in, or attributed to the State of Michigan. I certify that the company has, pursuant to the provisions of Sec 268 of Public Act 431 of 1984, withheld Michigan Income Tax from compensation paid to the company’s owners and remitted the tax to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Iran Linked Business- Public Act 517 of 2012.

I certify that the Company is not an Iran-Linked business as defined by Public Act 517 of 2012.

Enter YES or NO.

Clean Corporate Citizen. I certify that the Company is a Clean Corporate Citizen as defined by the Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451.

Enter YES or NO.

Convict Labor. The Contractor certifies that if using convict labor, it is complying with all applicable state and federal laws and policies.

Enter YES or NO.

SOM Debt/Tax Payment. All SOM tax/debts. I certify that all applicable State of Michigan taxes are paid, and that no outstanding debt is owed to the State of Michigan.

Enter YES or NO.

Authorization to Verify Information Provided by Vendor. I authorize the State to verify that all information provided in this registration, in bidding and contracting documents, and any attachments or supplement documents and processes are accurate.

Enter YES or NO.

12. Response to State Requests

Bidder agrees to respond, by established deadlines, to all requests from the State including but not limited to, clarification requests, notices of deficiency, and proposed changes to Contract Terms.

Enter YES or NO.

RFP 230000002104 Page 19 of 57

Contractor must enter company name here.

SCHEDULE A – STATEMENT OF WORK

CONTRACT ACTIVITIES

Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 230000002104 10 Cents A Meal for Michigan’s Kids & Farms - Farm Guide Research

This schedule identifies the anticipated requirements of any Contract resulting from this RFP. The term “Contractor” in this document refers to a bidder responding to this RFP, as well as the Contractor who is awarded the contract. The term “bidder” is used to identify where specific responses to the RFP are required.

The Contractor must respond to each requirement or question and explain how it will fulfill each requirement. Attach any supplemental information and appropriately reference within your response.

IMPORTANT NOTE TO CONTRACTORS/BIDDERS: There are specific requirements for which acceptance must be simply acknowledged through a checkbox(es), and others that require further explanation. Click one checkbox and complete the entries as identified.

BACKGROUND

The Office of Health and Nutrition Services (OHNS) at the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is responsible for administering the 10 Cents a Meal for Michigan’s Kids and Farms (10 Cents) program, Michigan’s local food investment program that provides schools, early childhood education centers, and other organizations participating in USDA Child Nutrition programs with match incentive funding to purchase and serve Michigan-grown fruits, vegetables, and dry beans. The goals of 10 Cents are to improve daily nutrition and eating habits for Michigan’s children and to invest in Michigan’s agriculture and related local food business economy.

1. SCOPE

OHNS is seeking a Contractor to carry out a 3-phase strategy aimed at strengthening the network farms/producers and USDA Child Nutrition program sponsors by identifying and building a comprehensive farm and vendor guide for Michigan. First, the selected contractor must conduct a landscape analysis of existing farm resource guides available both in and outside of Michigan, provide a summary of the collected data, and survey relevant stakeholders to determine gaps in available data. Second, the selected contractor will collect data to fill in gaps in available data and assemble/build the resource database to be used and housed internally. Lastly, the contractor will provide recommendations or best practices for how MDE can/should display these resources.

Examples of display recommendations might include the use of interactive, web-based, or other electronic guides to be used by 10 Cents a Meal for Michigan’s Kids and Farms grantees. The selected contractor is not being asked to display this resource as the internal IT infrastructure at MDE provides the scaffolding needed to support public and/or partner access to this database.

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2. Requirements

2.1 The Contractor must develop a strategic plan to carry out a three phase strategy aimed at strengthening the State’s network of farms/producers and USDA Child Nutrition Program Sponsors by identifying and building a comprehensive Farm and Vendor Guide for Michigan. The three phase strategy must include:

• Conduct a landscape analysis of existing farm resource guides available both in and outside of Michigan, provide a summary of the collected data, and survey relevant stakeholders to determine gaps in available data

• Collect data to fill in gaps in available data and assemble/build a resource database

• Provide recommendations or best practices for how MDE can/should display these resources.

• Develop outreach for stakeholder input in the development of the resource guide

All collected and developed data, resources, and materials will be exclusively owned by the State.

Within ten (10) business days after award of the contract the following will be required:

• MDE/OHNS Team Nutrition will require the Contractor to do the following:

1. Meet with OHNS for an orientation to the project and be provided grant informational materials for review. MDE will provide date for orientation.

• OHNS and Contractor must collaborate on the development of a timeline for completing project tasks.

• Contractor must have all necessary technical equipment and supports in place to work remotely.

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☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and agree with no exception.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and have noted all exception(s) below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder describe how you will comply with the above requirement(s) and explain any methods and or experience to best demonstrate as applicable:

2.2 Communication with MDE Project Management Team

The Contractor is responsible for communicating the status of the project to the OHNS Project Management Team as follows:

• Collaboration with OHNS on a schedule that includes:

Monthly project reports that include status of current activities, project goals, progress in reaching project goals, measurable outcomes achieved, issues and resolutions.

• Project reporting format will be determined by OHNS following the project kick off meeting to be held within ten (10) business days from contract execution.

• Contractor will be required to provide a final report and compilation of all project strategies, collected data, milestones, goals, outcomes, and final recommendations.

• Contractor is required to respond to OHNS Project/Program Manager or designee on any request within three (3) business days.

Contractor will be provided at the kickoff meeting all requisite information needed to communicate with the OHNS Project Management Team.

RFP 230000002104 Page 22 of 57 below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder explain (include prior experience) how you will comply with the above requirements.

2.3 Project Monitoring/Tracking

The Contractor must maintain a professional relationship with all project partners, including school nutrition managers (SNMs), child serving institutions and staff, farmers, any relevant stakeholders, and the team at MDE. The Contractor must:

• Collect, track, and monitor project data from project partners and stakeholders

• Contractor will be required to ensure timely submission of milestones and deliverables to OHNS Project/Program Manager.

• Contractor may be required to conduct other reporting responsibilities as determined by OHNS and as needed to successfully run the grant.

below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder explain reporting experience and capabilities and provide example of how project might be managed:

RFP 230000002104 Page 23 of 57

2.4 Project Management & Contract Monitoring

Project Management The Contractor will carry out this project under the direction and control of the OHNS Project/Program Manager. Within 10 calendar days of the effective Date, the Contractor must submit a final project plan to the OHNS Project/Program Manager for review and approval. The plan must include assigned personnel and the project breakdown showing sub-projects, tasks, timeline, and resources required.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and agree with no exception.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and have noted all exception(s) below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder provide example of a project management plan and explain compliance with above requirements.

Contract Monitoring Active contract management of State contracts ensures compliance with the requirements of an executed contract. This section outlines and describes activities that are necessary for effective contract management.

The Contractor will carry out this project under the direction and control of the State’s Project/Program Manager.

Project Management and Monitoring are subject to change based on MDE Project/Program Manager evaluation.

Category Level and Monitoring Frequency of this Contract will be Annually.

Contractor will be periodically monitored against the following Contract Monitoring Report Criteria:

a. Quality: Deliverables meet specifications, requirements

b. Timeliness: Deliverables received on schedule; milestones met

c. Cost Control: Cost of Deliverables is at or below expected cost

d. Staff Knowledge and Competency

e. Invoicing: Invoices are timely and accurate

f. Overall, Contractor Performance Rating

RFP 230000002104 Page 24 of 57

Deliverables will be monitored on annual basis for the following:

a. Quality of Materials, Data, Reporting, Guide Development

b. Quality of Service – include work with stakeholders, guide development

c. Performance

b. Cost Control

Invoices and Payments will be monitored for the following:

a. Timeliness of invoice submission

b. EFT Compliance

3. Service Requirements

3.1. Timeframe

All Contract deliverables must be completed no later than contract end date unless extended. Schedule for project will be developed in collaboration between Contractor and OHNS Project/Program Manager. Schedule/Timeline is subject to change depending on the needs of the project and MDE. MDE will have final approval of the Schedule/Timeline and any changes.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and agree with no exception.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and have noted all exception(s) below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder describe compliance of above requirement:

3.2. Delivery

Delivery of all collected data, resources, summaries, reports, and final resource database and recommendations for how data can be displayed and used interactively will be due no later than 10 business day prior to the end of the contract term unless extended. The OHNS Project/Program Manager must review and provide final approval for all submitted materials. Any extension will be at the determination of the OHNS Project/Program Manager. Final submission deadline will be determined by the OHNS Project/Program Manager and communicated to the Contractor.

RFP 230000002104 Page 25 of 57 below.

3.3. Acceptance

All Contract Activities must be complete, having received MDE approval, and delivered to the OHNS Project/Program Manager by the deadline established by the State in collaboration with the Contractor at the start of the project. OHNS Project/Program Manager will determine through review and written acceptance of all activities.

4. Staffing

4.1. Key Personnel

The Contractor must appoint at least one individual who will be directly responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Contract (“Key Personnel”). Key Personnel must be specifically assigned to the State account, be knowledgeable on the contractual requirements, and respond to State inquires within 8 hours.

The State has the right to recommend and approve in writing the initial assignment, as well as any proposed reassignment or replacement, of any Key Personnel. Before assigning an individual to any Key Personnel position, Contractor will notify the State of the proposed assignment, introduce the individual to the State’s Program Manager, and provide the State with a résumé and any other information about the individual reasonably requested by the State. The State reserves the right to interview the individual before granting written approval. In the event the State finds a proposed individual unacceptable, the State will provide a written explanation including reasonable detail outlining the reasons for the rejection.

Contractor will not remove any Key Personnel from their assigned roles on this Contract without the prior written consent of the State. The Contractor’s removal of Key Personnel without the prior written consent of the State is an unauthorized removal (“Unauthorized Removal”). An Unauthorized Removal does not include replacing Key

RFP 230000002104 Page 26 of 57

Personnel for reasons beyond the reasonable control of Contractor, including illness, disability, leave of absence, personal emergency circumstances, resignation, or for cause termination of the Key Personnel’s employment. Any Unauthorized Removal may be considered by the State to be a material breach of this Contract, in respect of which the State may elect to terminate this Contract for cause under the Termination for Cause section of the Standard Contract Terms.

The Contractor must identify the Key Personnel, indicate where they will be physically located, describe the functions they will perform, and provide current chronological résumés.

1. The Contractor must identify all Key Personnel that will be assigned to this contract.

2. Name and title of staff that will be designated as Key Personnel.

3. Key Personnel years of experience in the current classification.

4. Key Personnel’s roles and responsibilities, as they relate to this RFP, if the

Contractor is successful in being awarded the Contract. Descriptions of roles should be functional and not just by title.

5. Identify if each Key Personnel is a direct, subcontract, or contract employee.

6. Identify if each Key Personnel staff member is employed full-time (FT), part-time

(PT) or temporary (T), including consultants used for the purpose of providing information for the proposal.

7. List each Key Personnel staff member’s length of employment or affiliation with the Contractor’s organization.

8. Identify where each Key Personnel staff member will be physically located (city and state) during the Contract performance.

below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder identify Key Personnel – person or person(s) assigned to project, include relevant experience and information required above:

RFP 230000002104 Page 27 of 57

4.2. Disclosure of Subcontractors

If the Contractor intends to utilize subcontractors, the Contractor must disclose the following:

• The legal business name; address; telephone number; a description of subcontractor’s organization and the services it will provide; and information concerning subcontractor’s ability to provide the Contract Activities.

• The relationship of the subcontractor to the Contractor.

• Whether the Contractor has a previous working experience with the subcontractor. If yes, provide the details of that previous relationship.

• A complete description of the Contract Activities that will be performed or provided by the subcontractor.

below.

List all exception(s):

Bidder will sub-contractor(s) be used for this project? If sub-contractors are used provide required information requested above:

4.3. Work Hours

The Contractor must provide Contract Activities during the State’s normal working hours Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST and possible night and weekend hours depending on the requirements of the project.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and agree with no exception.

☐ I have reviewed the above requirement and have noted all exception(s)

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4.4. Meetings

The Contractor must attend the following meetings:

• Kickoff meeting with OHNS Project Management Team as scheduled. State will provide Contractor with meeting date and time upon execution of contract.

The State may request other meetings, as it deems appropriate.

4.5. Reporting

The Contractor must submit, to the…