November 4, 2025

CALIFORNIA CHILD CARE AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

ALTERNATIVE METHODOLOGY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) 25-3021

NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE PROPOSERS

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP), entitled RFP 25-3021, Alternative Methodology. In submitting your proposal, you must comply with these instructions.

RFP 25-3021 is a Non-Information Technology (IT) Services Request for Proposal. IT solutions as defined by State Administrative Manual (SAM) 4819.2 https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/SCM/TOC/10/10 cannot be included in submitted proposals.

Note that all agreements entered into with the State of California shall include by reference General Terms and Conditions and Contractor Certification Clauses that may be viewed and downloaded at Internet site https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services- Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language. If you do not have Internet access, a copy can be provided by contacting the person listed below.

Public Contract code Section 10115 et seq. establishes a contract participation goal of at least three percent (3%) for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE). This goal applies to a state agency’s overall contracting program.

A minimum of 3% DVBE participation is required for this solicitation. (See Section E, paragraph 2 of this RFP for the DVBE information).

If you have questions or should you need any clarifying information, the contact person for this RFP is:

Hyung-Jun Park, Contract Analyst California Department of Social Services

Non-IT Contracts Bureau E-mail: Hyung-Jun.Park@dss.ca.gov

The RFP due date is January 6, 2026, 2:00 p.m. PT. Questions concerning the RFP must be received no later than November 25, 2025, 4:30 p.m. PT. See RFP Section D paragraph 1 for additional details. Please note that no verbal information given shall be binding upon the State unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum.

Sincerely, Marja Sainio, Staff Services Manager II Contracts and Purchasing Bureau

Enclosure https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/SCM/TOC/10/10 https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language mailto:jessica.sicard@dss.ca.gov

RFP 25-3021 Page 2 of 35 California Department of Social Services

Request for Proposal (RFP) 25-3021

Alternative Methodology

RFP 25-3021 Page 3 of 35

Table of Contents Page A. Background, Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

1. Background

2. Purpose

B. Scope of Work C. Minimum Qualifications for Proposers D. Proposal Requirements and Information

1. Key Action Dates……………

2. Agreement Term

3. Subcontractors

4. Funding

5. Proposer Questions

6. Proposal Format…………………………………………………………...9

7. Proposal Content

8. Body of Proposal

9. Additional Documentation

10. Submission of Proposal

11. Evaluation Process

12. Award and Protest

13. Disposition of Proposals

14. Agreement Execution and Performance

E. Preference and Incentive Programs

1. Small Business Enterprise (SBE)

2. Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Participation Program

Requirements……………………………………………………………...29

3. DVBE Incentive for Awards Based on High Score

F. Insurance Requirements……………………………………………………..33 G. General Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Disclosure…………………………35

Attachments and Exhibits

Attachment 1 Required Attachment Checklist Attachment 2 Minimum Qualifications Certification Attachment 3 Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet Attachment 4 Proposer References Attachment 4.1 Subcontractor References (if applicable) Attachment 5 Work Plan Attachment 6 Cost Proposal Attachment 6.1 Budget Summary Attachment 6.2 Personnel Budget Attachment 6.3 Budget Narrative Instructions Attachment 7 GSPD-05-105, Bidder Declaration Attachment 8 STD 843, Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE)

Declarations, (if applicable) Attachment 9 DVBE Subcontractor Agreement (if applicable) Attachment 10 Darfur Contracting Act Certification

RFP 25-3021 Page 4 of 35

Attachment 11 Commercially Useful Function (CUF) Evaluation Form Attachment 12 California Civil Rights Laws Certification Attachment 13 Iran Contracting Act Verification Form Attachment 14 Contractor Certification Clause (CCC 04/2017) Attachment 15 STD 204, Payee Data Record Attachment 16 STD 830, Target Area Contract Preference Act (if applicable) Attachment 17 DGS PD 526, Bidder’s Summary of Contract Activities and Labor

Hours (if applicable)

Reference Documents

Exhibit 1 DVBE Program Requirements Exhibit 2 Sample Agreement

RFP 25-3021 Page 5 of 35

A. BACKGROUND, PURPOSE, AND GOALS

1. Background

RFP 25-3021 is a Non-IT Services Request for Proposal. IT solutions as defined by State Administrative Manual (SAM) 4819.2 https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/SCM/TOC/10/10 cannot be included in submitted proposals.

The primary source of federal funding for state subsidized child care programs is the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), which is authorized by the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014, and administered as grants to states and territories by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF). The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is the State’s CCDF Lead Agency and administers child care and development programs through its Child Care and Development Division.

California leverages CCDF funds to support a mixed-delivery system comprised of a variety of provider/program types, including licensed centers, licensed home-based family child care and license-exempt family, friend, and neighbor care.

The federal government requires that states assess the adequacy of their subsidized child care reimbursement rates every three years, and that the State conduct a cost analysis to be considered as part of the rate setting process. There are two permissible approaches to doing a cost analysis:

a. Conduct a market rate survey that reflect prices charged by child care providers and paid by parents.

b. Conduct an alternative methodology developed by the State, which may be a cost study or a cost estimation model. A cost study involves gathering point-in-time data about providers’ costs to operate a program. A cost estimation model is a tool that is informed by provider and program data that can run scenarios to estimate how different variables, such as where the program is located or the ages of the children served, impact the cost of care.

The alternative methodology approach allows states to set rates that are informed by the cost to deliver services, rather than the price that parents can afford to pay as evidenced by market rates. California historically conducted market rate surveys to inform its CCDF State Plans and set rates. In recent years, the vision of moving to a single rate structure informed by a cost-based alternative methodology and encompassing the entirety of California’s mixed-delivery system has been broadly endorsed by the child care and development and early learning field, the State Legislature and multiple advisory bodies. In a reflection of that consensus, in 2023 CDSS sought and secured federal pre-approval to utilize an alternative methodology to update its cost analysis for the Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025-2027 CCDF State Plan. The intent is to update the alternative methodology cost study performed in 2023 in order to inform California's FFY 2028-2030 CCDF State Plan, which must be submitted by July 1, 2027.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/SCM/TOC/10/10

RFP 25-3021 Page 6 of 35

2. Purpose

The CDSS is publishing this Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit proposals for the purpose of assessing the adequacy of the State’s subsidized child care reimbursement rates and conducting an updated cost analysis using the alternative methodology to be considered as part of child care rate negotiations through the annual state budget process. This includes, but is not limited to, gathering updated data and data elements used in the cost estimation model for the alternative methodology.

B. SCOPE OF WORK

See Exhibit A, entitled “Scope of Work” that is included in the Sample Standard Agreement, Exhibit 2.

C. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROPOSERS

1. Proposer’s corporation must be in good standing and qualified to conduct business in California as verified by the California Secretary of State.

2. Proposer must be a legal business entity authorized to do business in the State of California. A business license from the city or county in which the Bidder is headquartered shall be submitted with the bid. All businesses based in unincorporated areas are required to submit signed proof of “exempted” business license status from the city or county, if applicable.

3. Proposer shall have their principal place of business located in the United States and all personnel must reside and conduct services within the United States.

4. The proposer responding to this RFP must serve as the Prime Contractor and will be the responsible entity in ensuring that all tasks and activities are competently and successfully completed. The proposer must have the experience and qualifications to provide oversight to all proposed subcontractors and shall review and approve work products created by all proposed subcontractors.

5. The proposer must have a minimum of five years of recent (within the last eight years) full-time experience in at least one of the following items:

a. Completing a cost survey with similar content and magnitude as the alternative methodology.

b. Completing, within the last eight years, other similar Federal or State survey projects where the results affect the disbursement of public resources.

6. Proposers must accept and be committed to using the state’s federally approved methodology.

7. All non-governmental Proposers must submit a copy of their latest audit report from an independent certified public accountant. Any noted audit exception must http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/ https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdss.ca.gov%2FPortals%2F9%2FCCDD%2FCA%2520CEM%252025%2520Report_FIN.pdf%3Fver%3DqfLDVYgvknJHSMFS1khRJA%253d%253d&data=05%7C02%7CJessica.Sicard%40dss.ca.gov%7Cf6869e74c58d400ff4d708ddfa0ca25d%7C0235ba6b2cf04b75bc5dd6187ce33de3%7C1%7C0%7C638941654563021148%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=PlU1u5iIkyisvoN%2BCHwJbPKXwOHKbGiK4dgrbR5FfNI%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdss.ca.gov%2FPortals%2F9%2FCCDD%2FCA%2520CEM%252025%2520Report_FIN.pdf%3Fver%3DqfLDVYgvknJHSMFS1khRJA%253d%253d&data=05%7C02%7CJessica.Sicard%40dss.ca.gov%7Cf6869e74c58d400ff4d708ddfa0ca25d%7C0235ba6b2cf04b75bc5dd6187ce33de3%7C1%7C0%7C638941654563021148%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=PlU1u5iIkyisvoN%2BCHwJbPKXwOHKbGiK4dgrbR5FfNI%3D&reserved=0

RFP 25-3021 Page 7 of 35 be explained. This report cannot be more than 12 months old as of the final date for bid submission.

D. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS AND INFORMATION

1. Key Action Dates

EVENT DATE

RFP Available to Prospective Proposers November 4, 2025

Question Submittal Deadline November 25, 2025, 4:30 p.m. PT Must submit questions in an email to:

Hyung-Jun.Park@dss.ca.gov

Final Date for Proposal Submission January 6, 2026, 2:00 p.m. PT

Notice of Intent to Award Posted January 29, 2026

Last Day to Protest Award February 4, 2026

Proposed Agreement Start Date June 1, 2026

2. Agreement Term

The anticipated term of the resulting Agreement is June 1, 2026 or the date of approval by the DGS, whichever is later, through a period not to exceed 36 months. The State may, at its discretion, amend to add funds to complete the identified tasks at the originally agreed upon service rates. The date of Agreement approval by the State, however, shall be the governing factor as to the date of commencement. Should performance commence before the Agreement is approved, such services may be considered voluntary.

3. Subcontractors

a. Any subcontractor that the Proposer chooses to use in fulfilling the requirements of this RFP must also meet all the requisites of this RFP including the minimum qualifications and insurance requirements.

Subcontractor may not perform more than 49% of the required services.

b. If Proposer proposes the use of a subcontractor, the Proposer must also submit a list of references, Attachment 4.1, Subcontractor References, on behalf of each subcontractor.

c. Proposer must also submit a completed Attachment 9, DVBE Subcontractor Agreement, for each DVBE subcontractor identified in their Proposal. Only the Proposer shall fill out the DVBE Subcontractor Agreement and either mail, fax, or email the Agreement to the selected DVBE(s) for signature.

mailto:Jessica.Sicard@dss.ca.gov

RFP 25-3021 Page 8 of 35

d. Proposer may not substitute any proposed subcontractor without advance written consent of the CDSS.

e. Nothing contained in the awarded Agreement or otherwise shall create any contractual relationship between CDSS and any subcontractors, and no subcontractor shall relieve the Contractor of its responsibilities and obligations hereunder. The Contactor agrees to be fully responsible to CDSS for the acts and omissions of its subcontractors and of persons either directly or indirectly employed by any of them as it is for the acts and omissions of persons directly employed by the Contractor. The Contractor’s obligation to pay its subcontractors is an independent obligation from the obligation of CDSS to make payments to the Contractor. As a result, CDSS shall have no obligation to pay or to enforce the payment of any moneys to any subcontractor.

4. Funding

A maximum of $3,529,000.00 is anticipated to be available to obtain the services described in this RFP. Only one Agreement shall be awarded. The Proposer’s cost to perform services cannot exceed the maximum funding available for the Agreement per State Fiscal Year (FY).

a. $160,000.00 for FY 25/26 (June 1, 2026 – June 30, 2026)

b. $2,823,200.00 for FY 26/27 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)

c. $545,800.00 for FY 27/28 (July 1, 2027 – June 30, 2028)

It is mutually agreed that if the Budget Act of the current year and/or any subsequent years covered under this Agreement does not appropriate sufficient funds for the program, this Agreement shall be of no further force and effect. In this event, CDSS shall have no liability to pay any funds whatsoever to Contractor or to furnish any other considerations under this Agreement and Contractor shall not be obligated to perform any provisions of this Agreement.

If funding for any fiscal year is reduced or deleted by the Budget Act for purposes of this program, CDSS shall have the option to either cancel this Agreement with no liability occurring to the State, or offer an agreement amendment to Contractor to reflect the reduced amount.

5. Proposer Questions

Questions related to this RFP shall be submitted by email to Hyung- Jun.Park@dss.ca.gov by November 25, 2025, 4:30 p.m. PT.

RFP 25-3021 Page 9 of 35

Include the following information in your inquiry:

a. Your name

b. Legal entity name of the Proposer

c. Phone number and email address.

d. A description of the subject or issue in question or discrepancy found.

e. RFP section, page number, or other information useful in identifying the specific problem or issue in question.

f. Remedy sought, if any.

All questions received by CDSS will be summarized and responded to. The summary and response document of all proposer questions submitted by the deadline will be posted to the Cal eProcure, California State Contracts Register as a document titled “Questions and Answers to RFP 25-3021” upon completion of responses by CDSS.

Proposers shall only contact the individual identified above and shall not contact other CDSS personnel for meetings, conferences, or technical discussion related to this RFP. No questions may be answered by other CDSS staff. If proposers are discovered to have contacted other CDSS personnel, CDSS may reject their proposal. Oral communications concerning this RFP shall not be binding on the State and shall in no way excuse the Proposer of any obligations set forth in the

RFP.

6. Proposal Format

a. The Proposal should provide straightforward and concise descriptions of the

Proposer’s ability to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. The Proposal must be complete and accurate. Omissions, inaccuracies, or misstatements may be cause for rejection of a proposal. Emphasis in the Proposal should be on completeness and clarity of content. The evaluation process will not provide credit for capabilities or advantages that are not clearly shown in the written Proposal.

b. The narrative portions of the proposal shall be formatted using one-inch margins at the top, bottom and both sides, a font size of Arial 12-point, double-spaced, with each page clearly and consecutively numbered.

c. Except for any required audits or financial statements or returns, Proposer shall not mark any portion of their Proposal response as “Confidential” or “Proprietary”. CDSS will disregard any such markings.

d. The Proposal must be submitted in the legal entity name of the Proposer. The

Proposal must be signed by the Proposer, a corporate officer, or an authorized agent of the Proposer.

RFP 25-3021 Page 10 of 35

7. Proposal Content

This section specifies the order and content of each proposal. Failure to submit applicable attachments may cause the bid to be rejected.

a. Table of Contents

A Table of Contents must be provided. It must identify all major sections of the proposal by page number. All exhibits and attachments must also be identified and referenced by page number.

b. Attachment 1, Required Attachment Checklist

c. Attachment 2, Minimum Qualifications Certification

Proposers must complete and return the Attachment 3, Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet, certifying that the Proposer satisfies the Minimum Qualifications and requirements. Please include an explanation of how each applicable Minimum Qualification is met. This form must be signed by an individual who is authorized to bind the Proposer contractually. Failure to submit this form may cause the bid to be rejected.

d. Attachment 3, Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet

e. Attachment 4, Proposer References

Proposer shall submit with the Proposal Attachment 4, Proposer References, which shall include a list of at least three business references that shall include current and/or former paying clients for whom Proposer has provided services similar to those described in this RFP within the last five years. References may be contacted by CDSS to validate the information provided by the Proposer to determine the client’s overall satisfaction with the services provided. Proposer is responsible for notifying their references that CDSS may contact them for reference and performance information. CDSS shall contact references during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. PT. If references cannot be reached, the Proposal may be deemed non-responsive and rejected. If references obtained are not favorable, the CDSS may reject the proposal.

f. Attachment 4.1, Subcontractor References (if applicable)

8. Body of Proposal

The following elements must be included in the Proposal narrative. Address all the required elements in the Proposal narrative. Page limitations are noted for certain sections; pages in excess of the stated page limitations will not be read.

a. Background and Experience – A narrative description describing the

Proposer’s relevant background and experience is required. This narrative

RFP 25-3021 Page 11 of 35 shall not exceed ten (10) typed, double-spaced pages in length with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of ten (10) will not be read. This section shall include:

(1) Knowledge of, familiarity with, and experience working in the child care and development and/or early childhood education field at the State and local government levels.

(2) Statements regarding the success of prior work recruiting, organizing, facilitating and engaging with constituency groups, interest holders, and State partners. Provide examples of tangible and applicable work products and outcomes which resulted from the convening of these groups.

(3) Statements describing project management capacity in order to effectively manage the administration, resources, relationships and deliverables required as part of this RFP.

(4) Example of complex research and data analysis as related to child care and development and/or early childhood education programs and outcomes.

(5) Copies of, or web links to, final reports from successful projects.

b. Methodology – This section of the Proposal shall contain a detailed, clearly written explanation of the methods and tasks that the Proposer will follow to perform the services required by this RFP. This narrative for all components shall not exceed fifteen (15) typed, double-spaced pages in length with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of fifteen (15) shall not be read.

The written explanation shall include the following for each component:

Description of Methodology – describe in detail the methodology that the Proposer intends to follow in completing the services specified in Exhibit 2, Sample Agreement, Exhibit A, Scope of Work. Describe the activities the proposer shall complete to fulfill the deliverables in the Scope of Work. Outline the phases of planning and implementation, highlighting any practice approaches necessary.

c. Work Plan – Proposers shall submit a detailed proposed Work Plan utilizing

Attachment 5, Work Plan Template which shall contain, for each component, a list of major activities, strategies, timelines, and tools which shall be used to perform the services required by this RFP. The work plan shall include sufficient detail to ascertain the roles and activities of the Project Manager and Key Personnel, including any subcontractors. The work plan must provide a description of the approach and methodology by which the Contractor will accomplish all the associated subtasks and activities specified in the Scope of Work. The work plan shall be updated as necessary during the course of the Agreement. Any changes are subject to the approval of the CDSS. This Work Plan shall not exceed twenty (20) typed pages in length with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of twenty (20) will not be read. The Work

RFP 25-3021 Page 12 of 35

Plan shall include:

(a) A process to document all approvals, the CDSS-requested modifications, and disapprovals from the CDSS in writing.

(b) A description of how the proposer proposes to handle all private, personal, or confidential data to be transmitted to CDSS. The data must be transferred in a secure manner.

(c) Delivery of a 2026 Alternative Methodology Summary Final Report. The 2026 Alternative Methodology Summary Final Report must include all activities detailed in the Tasks of this RFP.

(d) Description of how the proposer proposes to organize and manage all information obtained from the CDSS.

(e) A detailed plan for a transition meeting in the last year of the contract.

(f) Description of the process that will be used for the effective and seamless transition to the next contractor.

(g) Description of the process that will be used to build CDSS staff capacity to understand and utilize the cost estimation tool.

(h) Acknowledgement that the successful proposer awarded the contract, pursuant to this RFP process, shall cooperate fully with the CDSS and the current or any future contractors selected by the CDSS.

(i) Meeting Facilitation and Communication: An outline of how the proposer shall meet and communicate with CDSS.

(j) Reports and Invoices: Details of how the proposer shall meet CDSS’ reporting and invoicing requirements.

(k) Preapproval Process: A description of how the proposer shall assist CDSS with getting ACF Alternative Methodology pre-approval.

(l) Engagement with Stakeholders: An explanation of how the proposer shall engage constituency groups, interest holders, and state partners in the Alternative Methodology process.

(m)Lead Alternative Methodology Advisory Work Group: A description of how the proposer shall lead and support the CDSS Alternative Methodology Advisory Workgroup.

(n) Alternative Methodology Survey: Details of how the proposer shall complete the Alternative Methodology survey requirements.

RFP 25-3021 Page 13 of 35

(o) Market Rate Survey: An explanation of how the proposer shall develop and include Market Rate Survey questions in the Alternative Methodology survey.

(p) Data Analysis: An illustration of how the proposer’s skills and experience shall assist in Alternative Methodology cost estimation analysis.

(q) 2026 Alternative Methodology Report: A description of how the proposer shall complete the 2026 Alternative Methodology draft and final reports.

(r) Narrow Cost Analysis: An explanation of how the proposer shall meet the federal requirements for narrow cost analysis.

(s) CDSS Review and Approval: Details of how the proposer shall meet the CDSS’ review and approval requirements.

(t) Ownership of Deliverables: An explanation of how the proposer shall share all deliverables with CDSS.

d. Timeline - Provide a detailed narrative schedule and timeline that outlines, both by task/subtask and chronology, each activity to be performed for the entire term of the Agreement. The narrative schedule and timeline must list all tasks/subtasks and deliverables as set forth in the Scope of Work and must include proposed task initiation and completion dates for each fiscal year covered under this contract or part thereof. The schedule and timeline will also serve as a monitoring document to ensure timely completion of tasks as proposed by the successful proposer. The schedule and timeline shall be updated as necessary during the course of the Agreement. Any changes are subject to the approval of the CDSS.

e. Organizational Structure and Personnel Resources – The content of this section should describe the relevance of the Proposer’s organizational capacity to carry-out the activities required by this RFP, the Proposer’s and any other key project staffs’ project management and experience related to deliverable completion, and the suitability of any proposed subcontractors.

This section shall not exceed five (10) typed, double-spaced pages with Arial 12-point font size. Pages in excess of five (10) will not be read (this limitation shall not include resumes nor item f below). This section should include:

(1) Services and Activities: Provide a description of the nature of the

Proposer's services and activities as it relates to the requirements of this RFP. Note when the Proposer, if a business, was established; its brief history; and its location(s). List the location(s) of the office(s) from which the primary work on the resulting Agreement would be performed. The proposer must give evidence that it has at least one California office, or will

RFP 25-3021 Page 14 of 35 establish and maintain at least one California office, and will provide services through this location.

(2) Project Manager: Identify 1 individual on the Proposer’s team who shall manage the work of this Agreement. Describe, including factual examples, the individual’s overall experience in planning, project managing, and developing a methodology as described in the context of this RFP.

(3) Key Personnel: Specify the Key Personnel who will manage or conduct the work. Identify the role of each person who will serve on this project, their title, where the individual is headquartered and the percentage of the Proposer’s total effort that will be provided by the individual towards the project. “Key Personnel” are defined as people who will exercise a major administrative, policy, or consulting role on behalf of the Proposer.

“Key Personnel” include individuals who are responsible for completing or assisting with the completion of the deliverables described in Exhibit 2, Sample Agreement, Exhibit A, Scope of Work. Identify Key Personnel contact information with the name, work telephone number, and work email address. “Key Personnel” does not include clerical staff.

(4) Current resumes for the Project Manager and Key Personnel: Include resumes describing education, experience, and expertise with pertinent information demonstrating qualifications for this RFP. If relevant, identify Key Personnel with experience and expertise in providing services as they relate to this RFP. If specific positions are not yet filled, please include job descriptions and qualifications for those positions desired. Resumes shall not exceed two (2) typed, double-spaced pages with Arial 12-point font size per resume.

(5) Subcontractors: Identify all contemplated subcontractors, including their names, business addresses, email addresses, work telephone numbers, qualifications, and resumes. Resumes shall not exceed two (2) typed double-spaced pages with Arial 12-point font size per resume.

Discuss the necessity of using each subcontractor, the specific services they will provide, the method used to secure their services, the portions and monetary percentages of the work to be done by the subcontractors, and a description of how the subcontracted work will be controlled, monitored, and evaluated by the proposer. The CDSS considers the successful Proposer to be the sole point of contact for the resulting Agreement. However, all subcontractors must conform to all requirements of this RFP and must be approved by the CDSS, in writing, in advance.

Entering into an Agreement with the State pursuant to the Proposal does not constitute written approval of the proposed subcontractor. Should the subcontractor’s participation include access, use or storage of personally identifiable information or protected health information, the subcontractor must meet the same requirements as the Contractor for access to the data described in the RFP.

RFP 25-3021 Page 15 of 35

f. Budget – Proposers must complete the following budget document included as Attachments 6, 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3 to this RFP. The below forms must be completed and included as attachments to the submitted Proposal. The format shall not be altered.

(1) Attachment 6, Cost Proposal

(2) Attachment 6.1, Budget Summary

(3) Attachment 6.2, Personnel Budget

(4) Attachment 6.3, Budget Narrative Format and Instructions

All costs associated with the performance of the Scope of Work required in this RFP must be included in the formats provided. Proposers are encouraged to include costs for all anticipated travel costs in the formation of their proposal.

Travel costs shall not exceed the rates established by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) for comparable classes (See https://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx).

9. Additional Documentation

At the State’s option prior to award, proposers may be required to submit additional written clarifying information. Failure to submit the requested written information as specified may be grounds for proposal rejection.

a. Declaration Forms

(1) Attachment 7, Bidder Declaration, GSPD-05-105

All proposers must complete the Attachment 7, Bidder Declaration GSPD-05-105, and include it with their proposal. If Proposer proposes the use of a subcontractor, Proposer must submit for each proposed subcontractor the required documentation, name(s) of people or firm(s), and specify the type of work the proposed subcontractor shall be performing. Proposers awarded a contract are contractually obligated to use the subcontractors for the corresponding work identified unless the State agrees to a substitution and it is incorporated by amendment to the resulting Agreement.

(2) Attachment 8, STD 843 (Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Declarations) (if applicable)

Proposers who have been certified by California as a DVBE (or who have obtained the participation of subcontractors certified by California as a DVBE) must also submit a completed Attachment 8, STD 843 (Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Declaration). All disabled veteran owners and disabled veteran managers of the DVBE(s) must sign the form(s).

Should the form not be included with this solicitation, contact the State contracting official or obtain a copy online from the Department of General Services, Procurement Division (DGS PD) website at:

https://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx

RFP 25-3021 Page 16 of 35 https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms. The completed form should be included with the Proposal response.

b. Attachment 9, DVBE Subcontractor Agreement (if applicable)

Proposer shall submit a completed Attachment 9, DVBE Subcontractor Agreement for each DVBE subcontractor identified in their proposal. Only the Proposer shall fill out this Agreement and either mail, fax or email the Agreement to the selected DVBE(s) for signature. Failure to submit the DVBE Subcontractor Agreement included in this solicitation for each DVBE subcontractor identified may render a proposal non-responsive. Each DVBE Subcontractor Agreement shall include: the term of intended subcontract with the DVBE, anticipated dates the DVBE will perform required work, rate and conditions of payment, the percentage of the entire Agreement that will be awarded to the DVBE, and the description of services and/or goods to be performed/supplied by the DVBE subcontractor. If further verifications are necessary, the State will obtain additional information to verify the above requirements. Should the form not be included with the solicitation, contact the State contracting official or obtain a copy online from the DGS PD website at:

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms. The completed form shall be included with the Proposal.

In accordance to SB 999.7, effective January 1, 2021, the Department shall withhold $10,000, or the full payment if it is less than $10,000 from the final payment on a contract until that certification is received by the awarding department within 60 calendar days after the expiration date of the agreement.

If the Contractor fails to meet those certification requirements, the Contractor may be granted 15 to 30 calendar days to cure the defect. If the Contractor does not comply with the requirement, the awarding department shall permanently deduct $10,000 from the final payment, or the full payment if it is less than $10,000 from a contract with the Contractor who does comply with those requirements within the specified period.

c. Attachment 10, Darfur Contracting Act Certification

All proposers must address the requirements of the Darfur Contracting Act of 2008, for the reason described in Public Contract Code section 10475-10481.

Any scrutinized companies are ineligible to, and cannot, bid on or submit a proposal for an agreement with a State agency for goods or services. A scrutinized company is defined in Public Contract Code section 10476.

However, a bid/proposal may be submitted by scrutinized companies if permission is obtained first from the Department of General Services according to the criteria set forth in Public Contract Code section 10477(b).

d. Attachment 11, Commercially Useful Function Evaluation Form

The Department of General Services (DGS), Procurement Division (PD), is the entity responsible for statewide implementation of Small Business/DVBE program regulations resulting from legislative mandates passed into law.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Forms

RFP 25-3021 Page 17 of 35

Under Government Code and Military and Veterans Code any California certified Small (SB), Micro (MB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Suppliers doing business with the State must perform a Commercially Useful Function (CUF). Subsequently, each Department’s buyer is held responsible for its CUF compliance procedures and evaluation of a proposer’s activities in response to Department solicitations. This applies to Suppliers responding to the Department’s solicitations whether prime or subcontractor.

CUF must be established prior to making final Agreement or purchase order award.

All SB and/or DVBE proposers, or those with SB and/or DVBE subcontractors, must include the completed Attachment 11, Commercially Useful Function Evaluation Form, with their submittal.

e. Attachment 12, California Civil Rights Law Certification

Prior to bidding on, submitting a proposal or executing an agreement or renewal for a State of California agreement over $100,000 on or after January 1, 2017, the bidder or proposer must certify compliance with the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code); and if a Contractor has an internal policy against a sovereign nation or peoples recognized by the United States government, the Contractor certifies that such policies are not used in violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act (Section 51 of the Civil Code) or the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Section 12960 of the Government Code).

f. Tax Delinquencies Contract Ban

Public Contract Code section 10295.4 provides that a State agency shall not enter into any contract for goods or services with a Contractor whose name appears on either list of the 500 largest tax delinquencies pursuant to Section 7063 or 19195 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. This section applies to contracts executed on or after July 1, 2012. The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) and California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) will post and periodically update lists of the 500 largest tax delinquencies on their websites as required by law. Starting July 1, 2012, prior to executing contracts, State agencies must check the FTB and CDTFA lists to ensure the proposed awardee/vendor is not on either list.

g. Attachment 13, Iran Contracting Act Verification Form

All proposers must address and certify compliance with the requirements of Attachment 11, Iran Contract Act Verification Form prior to bidding on, submitting a proposal or executing an Agreement or renewal for a State of California agreement for goods or services of $1,000,000 or more, a vendor must either: a) certify it is not on the current list of persons engaged in investment activities in Iran created by the California Department of General Services (DGS) pursuant to Public Contract Code section 2203(b) and is not a

RFP 25-3021 Page 18 of 35 financial institution extending twenty million dollars ($20,000,000) or more in credit to another person, for 45 days or more, if that other person will use the credit to provide goods or services in the energy sector in Iran and is identified on the current list of persons engaged in investment activities in Iran created by DGS; or b) demonstrate it has been exempted from the certification requirement for that solicitation or contract pursuant to Public Contract Code section 2203(c) or (d).

h. Attachment 14, Contractor Certification Clause (CCC 04/2017)

Bidder must submit with the proposal, a completed Attachment 14, Contractor Certification Clauses, CCC 04/2017, signed by an authorized individual to legally bind the Proposer to the clauses listed within the certification.

i. Attachment 15, STD 204, Payee Data Record

Proposers must complete and return Attachment 15, STD 204, Payee Data Record to indicate the full business name as it should be reflected on the proposed contract (if awarded). If the Proposers is using a Doing Business As (DBA) name, this name should also be reflected on the Attachment 15, STD 204 form. This form must be signed by an individual who is authorized to sign the Attachment 15, STD 204 on behalf of the Proposer.

j. Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA)

(1) This RFP provides for the optional TACPA preference. Proposers are not required to apply for this preference. Denial of the TACPA preference request is not a basis for rejection of the proposal/offer.

(2) The TACPA workplace and workforce preferences will be evaluated for this RFP. California based companies seeking TACPA preferences must complete and submit Attachment 16, STD 830, Target Area Contract Preference Act and Attachment 17, DGS PD 526, Bidder’s Summary of Contract Activities and Labor Hours preference request forms with the bid/offer. The following webpage contains required preference request forms and an interactive map to determine if a business is located within a TACPA qualified zone: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page- Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Request-a-Target- Area-Contract-Preference.

(3) By submitting TACPA forms, a proposer given a TACPA preference agrees to the TACPA contract provisions required by Government Code section 4535 and provided in section 1896.40 of Title 2 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) in addition to requirements specified on the TACPA form, Attachment 16, STD 830.

(4) If a proposer has submitted the completed TACPA request forms, Attachment 16, STD 830 and Attachment 17, DGS PD 526 with its https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Request-a-Target-Area-Contract-Preference https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Request-a-Target-Area-Contract-Preference https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Request-a-Target-Area-Contract-Preference

RFP 25-3021 Page 19 of 35 proposal, and all RFP requirements are met, a preference of up to five percent (5%) may be added to the responsive responsible proposer’s score for this RFP.

k. Proof of Corporate Status: If Proposer is a corporation, submit a copy of firm’s most current Certificate of Status issued by the State of California, Office of Secretary of State. Submit an explanation if this documentation cannot be submitted. Do not submit copies of Bylaws or Articles of Incorporation.

l. Proof of Nonprofit Status: If Proposer is a nonprofit organization, submit a copy of an IRS determination letter indicating nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. Submit an explanation if this documentation cannot be submitted.

10. Submission of Proposal

a. All proposals shall be electronically submitted and received by CDSS by the date and time shown in Section D, Proposal Requirements and Information, Item 1, Key Action Dates. Proposals received after this date and time will not be considered.

b. An electronic copy that contains a complete Portable Documents Format (PDF) of the proposal must be submitted to Hyung-Jun Park at Hyung- Jun.Park@dss.ca.gov, prior to the proposal submission deadline. The subject line shall contain the following naming convention: RFP 25-3021, Alternative Methodology. If the size of the submitted files are too large to be sent in one email, multiple emails may be sent from the same Proposer’s email. CDSS cannot be held liable for emails not received due to file size exceeding email capabilities.

(1) LATE SUBMISSIONS, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, WILL NOT BE

ACCEPTED FOR ANY REASON.

(2) Proposals submitted to any other email address will not be accepted.

(3) If the proposal is made under a fictitious name or business title, the actual legal name of the Proposer must be provided.

(4) Proposals not submitted in accordance with the instructions and marked as indicated may be rejected.

c. All proposals shall include the documents identified in Attachment 1, Required Attachment Checklist. Proposals not including the proper “required attachments” shall be deemed non-responsive. A non-responsive proposal is one that does not meet the basic proposal requirements.

d. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all the services described herein. Any deviation from the work specifications will not be considered and will cause a proposal to be rejected.

RFP 25-3021 Page 20 of 35

e. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. CDSS may reject any or all proposals and may waive an immaterial deviation in a proposal. CDSS’ waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the proposer from full compliance with all requirements if awarded the Agreement.

f. Costs incurred for developing proposals and in anticipation of award of the

Agreement are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to the State of California.

g. An individual who is authorized to bind the proposing firm contractually shall sign Attachment 3, Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet. The signature must indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be rejected.

h. A Proposer may modify a proposal after its submission by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline as set forth in the Key Action Dates. Proposal modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

i. A Proposer may withdraw its proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to CDSS, signed by the Proposer or an authorized agent. A Proposer may thereafter submit a new proposal pminrior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

j. CDSS may modify the RFP prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum posted on the Cal eProcure event.

k. CDSS reserves the right to reject all proposals. CDSS is not required to award an agreement.

l. Before submitting a response to this solicitation, Proposers should review, correct all errors and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements.

m. Where applicable, Proposer should carefully examine work sites and specifications. No additions or increases to the Agreement amount will be made due to lack of careful examination or work sites and specifications.

n. More than one proposal from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation or association under the same or different names will not be considered.

o. The State does not accept alternate agreement language from a prospective

Contractor. A proposal with such language will be considered a counter proposal and will be rejected. The State’s General Terms and Conditions (GTC) are not negotiable.

RFP 25-3021 Page 21 of 35

p. No oral understanding or agreement shall be binding on either party.

q. CDSS reserves the right to use any and all ideas or concepts in any proposal submitted and/or selected for the award of the Agreement.

r. News releases pertaining to this RFP and its award shall not be made without prior approval of CDSS.

11. Evaluation Process

a. A multiple stage evaluation process will be used to review and/or score proposals. A responsive proposal is one which meets or exceeds the requirements stated in this RFP. CDSS may reject any proposal that is found to be non-responsive at any stage of evaluation.

b. At the time of proposal opening, each proposal will be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this RFP.

c. Proposals that contain false or misleading statements, or which provide references, which do not support an attribute or condition claimed by the Proposer, may be rejected.

d. Proposal Evaluation

The Proposals will be evaluated and scored according to the criteria indicated below. The maximum points possible are 100 (excluding points for socioeconomic incentives or preferences).

Each section of the core application narrative will be assigned a score using the scoring rubric, which summarizes the required element of the application narrative.

Rating Category/Scoring Criteria (100 Points)

(1) Adequacy of Background and Experience (20 points) – A Narrative description is required of the proposer’s relevant background and experience.

(a) Proposer explains knowledge of, familiarity with, and experience working in the child care and development and/or early childhood education field at the State and local government levels. (4 points)

(b) Proposer describes success of prior work recruiting, organizing, facilitating and engaging with constituency groups, interest holders, and State partners. Provide examples of tangible and applicable work products and outcomes which resulted from the convening of these groups. (4 points)

RFP 25-3021 Page 22 of 35

(c) Proposer describes project management capacity in order to effectively manage the administration, resources, relationships and deliverables required as part of this RFP. (4 points)

(d) Proposer describes example(s) of complex research and data analysis experience as related to child care and development and/or early childhood education programs and outcomes. (4 points)

(e) Proposer includes copies of, or web links to, final reports from successful projects. (4 points)

(2) Methodology (20 points) – A detailed description of the methods and tasks that the Proposer will follow to perform the services required by this RFP.

The proposal shall contain, for each component, a detailed, clearly written explanation of the methods and tasks that the proposer shall follow to perform the services required by the RFP. The written explanation shall include the following for each component:

Description of methodology – describe in detail the methodology that the proposer intends to follow in completing the required tasks outlined by this

RFP.

Scoring Rubric Points Criteria 17 – 20 The Proposer clearly describes and demonstrates extensive knowledge and experience in all the categories stated above.

Proposer’s plans and outcomes are based on relevant CDSS expectations to meet requirements.

13 – 16 The Proposer meets at least 75 percent of the categories and demonstrates knowledge and experience, but with weaknesses that are considered minimal. The Proposer’s plans and outcomes are adequate.

9 – 12 The Proposer meets at least 50 percent of the categories, and the weaknesses are considered moderate.