RFP Cascades West Innovation Hub Project Management August 1_CleanCopy_August 8.pdf

RFP Cascades West Innovation Hub Page 0 of 34 08.08.2024

OREGON CASCADES WEST COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

Request for Proposals for Professional Services:

Cascades West Innovation Hub Project Management

Issued: Date August 8, 2024

Submittals must be received by: (Date September 9, 2024 5:00 PM PST)

Single Point of Contact:

Justin Peterson, Community and Economic Development Planner Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments 1400 Queen Ave. SE Albany, OR 97322 jpeterson@ocwcog.org 541-924-8420 mailto:jpeterson@ocwcog.org

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PURPOSE

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

SCOPE OF WORK

SCHEDULE

TERM OF CONTRACT

SUBMITTAL REQUIRMENTS

Cover Letter of Interest

Threshold Requirements

MAIN PROPOSAL

Economic Development Experience and Capacity

Community and Economic Development Knowledge and Engagement

Methodology

Cost Proposal and Project Budget

References

Minority, Women, Veteran and Emerging Small Business Participation

SELECTION CRITERIA AND PROCESS

OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

Checklist Disclaimer

ATTACHMENT B - CERTIFIED DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS OUTREACH PLAN

ATTACHMENT C - PROPOSER INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION SHEET

ATTACHMENT D - RESPONSIBILITY INQUIRY

ATTACHMENT E - COMPLIANCE SIGNATURE FORM

ATTACHMENT F – SAMPLE CONTRACT

ATTACHMENT G: INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

EXHIBIT A: BUSINESS ASSOCIATE RELATIONSHIP

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Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG) is requesting interested parties to submit a proposal to provide project management services and develop a system-wide operating framework for the Cascades West Innovation Hub for Benton, Lane, Lincoln, and Linn counties. The vison for the Hub is a thriving, collaborative, and aligned economic ecosystem for traded-sector businesses that are established, scaled, and poised to conduct national and international trade. The lead entity is the OCWCOG on behalf of Business Oregon.

Grant funding supports this role, the development of the operating framework, and project management services through June 20, 2025.

PURPOSE

The Request for Proposals (RFPs) is being issued by OCWCOG. The purpose of this notice is to invite firms to submit their proposals to OCWCOG to provide various professional services under its grant. This solicitation is being issued in part to comply with Federal and State procurement standards that are applicable to hiring consulting firms to assist communities with grants awarded including. All notices related to this

RFP will be posted on OregonBuys which is accessible at: https://oregonbuys.gov/ and the OCWCOG website. OCWCOG encourages Disadvantaged Business Enterprises to apply.

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

OCWCOG is organized under Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 190 as a voluntary-created intergovernmental Council formed by Benton, Linn, and Lincoln counties. The

Council was chartered as a Type B Area Agency on Aging in 1982. The purpose of the

Council is to be aware of and facilitate communication relating to the region’s physical and social condition and provide staff resources to local governments to assist in programs or activities that are locally beneficial. Operations include services to elderly and/or disabled persons in economic or social need, veterans, Small Business Lending, and assistance to member cities and counties in economic planning and development.

Funding for programs and administration is received under the Federal Older Americans

Act, Oregon Project Independence, Social Security Act – Title XIX, federal grants and loans, State of Oregon programs, other local governments, fund raising, community groups and individual donations. Most of its funding is provided by way of contracts to administer specific services. More information is available at OCWCOG’s website, www.ocwcog.org.

https://oregonbuys.gov/ http://www.ocwcog.org/

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SCOPE OF WORK

Introduction

Through this RFP, OCWCOG, is seeking competitive proposals from qualified and experienced individuals or firms (hereafter, “Proposers”) for project management services to develop a system-wide operating framework for the Cascades West

Innovation Hub and assist the OCWCOG as the lead entity and fiscal agent. Ultimately, the Hub will support traded-sector businesses located in Benton, Lane, Lincoln, and

Linn counties that are ready, scalable, and poised to do national and international business. This RFP outlines the information that must be submitted by the Proposer to be considered for selection.

Background

The Cascades West Innovation Hub is one of nine Regional Innovation Hubs supported by the Oregon Innovation Council (Oregon InC) and Business Oregon, Oregon’s Economic Development agency. Innovation Hubs are identified in Oregon’s 10-Year Innovation Plan1 (February 2021) as a strategy to strengthen Oregon’s innovation ecosystem and regional economic development, support traded-sector businesses, and incentivize collaboration among service providers.

The Hub will be industry-agnostic with no specific technology, sector, or discipline as a focus. The region has a surplus of early-stage support for new businesses, but there is a shortage of second and growth stage services. The Innovation Hub would provide transitional coordination and support for those businesses.

Depending on the regional business community needs, services may vary from other Oregon Innovation Hubs. However, they may include referral and coordination;

technical assistance; finance and access to capital; networking and mentorship opportunities; and talent development, attraction and retention – all with a focus on innovation, economic development, and job creation.

The development of the Cascades West Innovation Hub is at an early, groundwork stage and builds upon on a 2023 regional gap analysis and recommendations2. Since that year, a small task force has met a few times and discussed broadly the scope and purpose of the Innovation Hub. A governance structure, an operating framework, and additional partners, especially from the private sector, are needed to support early conversations and plans.

The Oregon Cascades West Council of Government agreed to be interim lead entity and fiscal agent for the Cascades West Innovation Hub. A permanent and long-term lead entity, fiscal agent, and champion will need to be identified.

1 Oregon Innovation Plan Link Here 2 Onward Eugene and Venn Report Link Here https://www.oregon.gov/biz/programs/homeareas/innovate/pages/oip.aspx https://ocwcog-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/jpeterson_ocwcog_org/EbzTn1RNt6hJhxuwqbrCvmsB9zz-dg8cQeh-1fvLE5Yzew?e=0qWGA2

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Scope of Services

OCWCOG is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced individuals or firms for consulting services to provide technical and project assistance for the preliminarily identified tasks below. Proposers may suggest as part of their submission, different approaches, refinements, and improvements to each task, if they maintain the overall purpose of the project as outlined in the Work Plan. OCWCOG reserves the right to seek clarifications of each proposal. All deliverables will be completed by June 20, 2025.

Task 1: Project Management, Administration, and Reporting

• Serves as a point of contact for the Cascades West Innovation Hub. Provides internal and external communication, staff task force, subcommittees, and/or workgroups support (e.g., note keeping, scheduling, coordination, and meeting logistics).

• Assist with two progress reports: the contract execution date to October 31, 2024, and November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025. Each progress report will detail progress, milestones, problems encountered, and grant expenditures accrued during the grant period.

• Assist with a final report by July 31, 2025. Each report will describe: 1) the status of project task and milestone, 2) how each task and milestone supported the development of our regional innovation-economy and ecosystem, 3) one or two business and/or Innovation Hub success stories or testimonials, and 4) the overall budget, expenses, and status.

Task 2: Governance and Operating Framework

• Develop a taskforce governance structure and operating framework to include, but not limited to 1) a charter describing its purpose, scope, objectives, authority

(e.g., formal board or advisory committee), and membership; 2) meeting frequency, 3) communication and meeting protocols, 4) recruit and orientate task force members, and 5) member roles and responsibilities.

• Plan and facilitate task force meeting/s; prepare and disseminate any minutes and notes.

• Recommend qualitative and quantitative metrics and data collection methodologies: business demographics, sector, geographic location, and services received.

• Develop a charter structure and timeline for each subcommittee (e.g., Financing and Access to Capital, Collaborative Technical Assistance, Small Business

Readiness, Technical Assistance and Talent Development, Networking and

Mentorship Opportunities). Recruit subcommittee members ensuring broad diversity and geographic distribution.

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Task 3: Plan and Facilitate an Inaugural Kickoff/launch Event

• Plan and facilitate a hybrid event to introduce Cascades West Innovation Hub to partners, stakeholders, media, and the business community.

Task 4: Identify a champion

• Recruit a lead entity and fiscal agent for the Cascades West Innovation Hub

• Recommend transition timelines and any roles and responsibilities.

Task 5: Pilot of Innovation Hub Activity(ies)

• Pilot at least one of the following Innovation Hub activities to support traded-sector businesses:

o Technical Assistance: Education specifically targeted for innovation-based entrepreneurs in high-growth, traded-sector industries;

o Access to Capital: Connectivity with diverse capital sources and helping firms become investment ready.

o Networking: Opportunities to develop relationships and connections at the regional level to support business growth.

o Talent development: Increased access to managerial talent and personnel to support growth.

o Mentorship: Entrepreneurs-in- Residence and mentor networks for targeted guidance and access to customers, investors, business intelligence, or other resources.

o Provide linkages to Centers of Innovation Excellence.

• Develop the activity including timelines, purpose and outcomes, scope, and audience.

• market and promote activity within the region.

• Recruit business and service provider attendees.

• Evaluate success and recommend improvements.

• Innovation Hub activity must be consistent with Business Oregon requirements/expectations.

SCHEDULE

OCWCOG requires that the successful Proposer begin work immediately upon contract issuance; and that the selected Proposer diligently pursue completion of the work. Work required will proceed along the timeline and critical path as agreed upon by OCWCOG and the selected Proposer.

TERM OF CONTRACT

Any contract awarded pursuant to this RFP solicitation shall be for a contract period through June 20, 2025, with the possibility of an extension. OCWCOG may amend or extend this contract beyond the initial timeframe to accommodate the terms and conditions of the Innovation Hub Grant or future Business Oregon grants awarded to OCWCOG within this time period provided a market survey conducted by OCWCOG indicates that the prices the contractor proposes are reasonable. The grant work is expected to be completed by June 20, 2025.

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OCWCOG reserves the right to cancel the work and application at any time that

OCWCOG determines it is in the public interest to do so. See the Reservation of Rights section for additional detail.

SUBMITTAL REQUIRMENTS

RFP responses must be submitted via e-mail to jpeterson@ocwcog.org by 5:00 PM

PST on September 9, 2024. Each proposer shall submit the all documents in a clear, legible, 12-point font, and 8.5 by 11-inch format. Responses must be submitted via e-mail or they will not be considered. Proposers are advised to adhere to the Submittal

Requirements. Failure to comply with the instructions of this RFP will be cause for rejection of submittals. All materials submitted by the proposer as part of the proposal will be considered the property of OCWCOG and will not be required to be returned to the proposer.

Submit the proposal electronically. Hard copy submissions will not be accepted. The submittal shall be no longer than 12 pages (main proposal, including any organizational chart, references, required statements and schedule of fees). Documents not included in the page count include the cover letter of interest, threshold requirements, and attachments.

OCWCOG reserves the right to seek additional information to clarify responses to this

RFP. Each response must include the following:

Cover Letter of Interest

Submit a Cover Letter of Interest signed by the Proposer, not to exceed two pages in length (not included in the 12-page count). The Letter of Interest must also include the following information:

1. The principal place of business and the contact person, title, telephone/fax numbers and email address.

2. A brief summary of the qualifications of the Proposer and team.

Threshold Requirements

These documents must be submitted and acceptable before OCWCOG will review the

Experience and Capacity proposal:

A statement disclosing any and all lawsuits, debarments, suspensions, decertifications, administrative claims, fine proceedings or responsibility matters that the firm or any of its principals has been a party to in the past five (5) years;

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Evidence of Insurance

i. Commercial General Liability with limits $1,000,000 Per Occurrence / $2,000,000

General Aggregate / $2,000,000 Products and Completed Operations Aggregate.

Aggregates shall apply per Project.

ii. PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000 per claim and $1,000,000 annual aggregate with 24 months tail coverage

iii. Workers Compensation; and Employers Liability 500,000 each accident / $500,000 policy limit / $500,000 each employee

Business Registry

If selected for award, the Proposer shall be duly authorized by the State of Oregon to transact business in the State of Oregon before executing the Contract. Visit http://sos.oregon.gov/business/pages/register.aspx for Oregon Business Registry information.

Pay Equity Compliance

As required by [ORS 279B.235 or ORS 279C.520], Contractor shall comply with ORS 652.220 as amended and shall not discriminate unlawfully against any of Contractor’s employees in the payment of wages or other compensation for work of comparable character, the performance of which requires comparable skills, or pay any employee at a rate less than another for comparable work, based on an employee’s membership in a protected class.

“Protected class” means a group of persons distinguished by race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, or age. Contractor’s compliance with this section constitutes a material element of this Contract and a failure to comply constitutes a breach that entitles OCWCOG to terminate this Contract for cause.

Contractor may not prohibit any of Contractor’s employees from discussing the employee’s rate of wage, salary, benefits, or other compensation with another employee or another person. Contractor may not retaliate against an employee who discusses the employee’s rate of wage, salary, benefits, or other compensation with another employee or another person.

MAIN PROPOSAL

Provide the following information: To ensure fair and equitable evaluation, the proposal should be organized into the following separate sections.

Economic Development Experience and Capacity A description of your experience in traded sector business, regional programs, and/or innovation and economic development. Please include your organizational capacity: (e.g., expertise, available personnel, resources, and time) to complete the scope of work.

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Community and Economic Development Knowledge and Engagement Community and Economic Development Knowledge: Describe your knowledge of the Benton, Lane, Linn, and Lincoln County (e.g., business needs, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) can effectively engage/communicate with the region’s local business community, stakeholders, and service providers.

Methodology The proposal shall include a complete description of the firm’s proposed approach and methodology for the project. This section should convey firm’s understanding of the proposed project and shall contain sufficient detail to convey the firm’s experience and knowledge of Benton, Lane, Lincoln, and Linn County region, traded-sector business needs, regional programs, structure, and operating frameworks, collective impact strategies, and other relevant subjects and skills needed to successfully to deliver the scope of work and deliverables on time and within the budget.

Describe the firm’s organizational structure and the names, qualifications and experience of key individuals, including sub-contractors if applicable. The chosen

Contractor shall commit that staff identified in its Proposal will perform the assigned work. Any staff substitution must have the prior approval of OCWCOG. Provide a disclosure of any potential conflicts of interest.

Cost Proposal and Project Budget The evaluation process is designed to award this procurement not necessarily to the

Proposer that proposes the least cost, but rather to the applicant whose proposal best meets the requirements of this RFP and can deliver the scope of work on time and within budget. Please submit your detail budget and include:

• Personnel expenses including wages, hourly rates, and fringe benefits to meet the deliverables as described in the scope of work.

• A description of any subcontracted or assigned personnel, including their title, role in this project, how they will be supervised, experience and qualifications.

Total available funding for this project is $85,000.

References Your proposal should include at least three (3) references for similar and recent services/projects. Please include the name of firm, the project lead, key personnel, their email address and phone number; and a brief description (3-4 sentences) of project and services.

Minority, Women, Veteran and Emerging Small Business Participation OCWCOG encourages participation of Firms certified by the Oregon Certification for

Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID).

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SELECTION CRITERIA AND PROCESS

The Selection Committee comprised of OCWCOG staff and potentially outside parties will review proposals in accordance with the evaluation criteria set forth herein.

Proposals submitted by September 9, 2024 and comply with the mandatory requirements of the RFP will be evaluated in accordance with the terms of the RFP. Any contract resulting from this RFP will not necessarily be awarded to the vendor with the lowest price. Instead, the contract shall be awarded to vendor whose proposal received the most points in accordance with criteria set forth in RFP.

OCWCOG reserves the right to award this opportunity based on the initial RFP response without oral presentations or interviews; however, oral presentations to or interviews with OCWCOG may be requested. OCWCOG may conduct interviews at its sole discretion. If interviewed, Proposers will be encouraged to elaborate on their qualifications, performance data, and staff expertise relevant to the proposed contract, among other things. References will also be verified.

OCWCOG reserves the right to reject any and all responses. Firms not selected are anticipated to be notified in writing by September 23, 2024.

RFP Schedule Issuance of RFP by OCWCOG August 8, 2024 Deadline for Questions/Requests for Clarification

August 23, 2024

Submission of proposals no later than 5 p.m. September 9, 2024

Evaluation completed September 20, 2024 Interviews (if necessary) September 23, 2024 Contract negotiated and signed September 30, 2024

Questions/Requests for Clarifications Questions regarding this RFP should be submitted in writing via email to Justin

Peterson, at jpeterson@ocwcog.org prior to the deadline in the RFP Schedule above.

Responses to all questions received will be posted on OregonBuys within three (3) business days of the deadline to submit questions.

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Evaluation Criteria and Scoring Rubric A team will evaluate each proposal based on the following weighted criteria and points:

Criterion

Weighted Maximum

Points Proposal

Economic Development Experience and Capacity: Demonstrated experience in traded sector business, regional programs, innovation-economies, and economic development. Has organizational capacity (e.g., expertise, available personnel, resources, and time) to complete the scope of work.

20 Points

Business and Community Engagement:

Proposer has a professional network and can effectively engage and communicate with diverse stakeholders and service providers.

Project Management Experience:

Demonstrated experience in successfully completing complex tasks/projects, managing budgets, preparing reports, and communicating results.

Methodology Proposer has a probability of meeting each task on time and within budget parameters.

Cost Proposal: Reasonableness of cost/price proposal (e.g., rates) based on a comparison of prices among competing offerors and other available information on market rates for consulting services.

Proposer’s cost/price is under or the maximum available funding.

10 Points

References: References confirm proposer’s ability to deliver the scope of work on time, performance expectations and quality, and in budget.

10 Points

Proposal Total 100 Points

Notes/Comments:

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Negotiation After selection of a successful Proposer, OCWCOG may negotiate contract deliverables/tasks with the apparent successful Proposer. By submitting a Proposal, Proposer agrees to comply with the requirements of the RFP, including the terms and conditions of the Sample Contract (Attachment F), with the exception of those terms listed below for negotiation. Based on the cost proposal, OCWCOG may adjust the scope, schedule, or objectives of the project in any manner that is in the best interest of the public. If OCWCOG and the apparent successful Proposer are not able to come to terms that satisfy OCWCOG’s project, policy and budget needs in a timely manner, as determined solely in the discretion of OCWCOG, OCWCOG may inform the apparent successful Proposer that the proposal is rejected and inform the next best ranked qualified proposer, review the cost proposal and negotiate with that proposer, and follow the same process with each qualified proposer until an agreement is reached or OCWCOG determines that the RFP should be cancelled. Each proposer must review the attached Sample Contract and note exceptions.

Proposer must submit those exceptions to OCWCOG prior to the Questions / Requests for Clarification deadline set forth under the RFP Schedule (See under Selection Process, Section A, under number 2. herein). Unless OCWCOG agrees to modify any of the terms and conditions, OCWCOG intends to enter into a Contract with the successful Proposer substantially in the form set forth in Sample Contract (Attachment F).

It may be possible to negotiate some provisions of the final Contract; however, OCWCOG is not required to make any changes and many provisions cannot be changed. Proposer is cautioned that OCWCOG believes modifications to the standard provisions constitute increased risk and increased cost to our agency. Therefore, OCWCOG will consider the Scope of requested exceptions in the evaluation of Proposal.

Submittal Due Date Responses to this RFP are due by 5:00 p.m. PDT on September 9, 2024 and must be e-mailed to: jpeterson@ocwcog.org

Hard copies will not be accepted.

Reservation of Rights OCWCOG reserves the right to: seek clarifications of each proposal; negotiate a final contract that is in the best interest of OCWCOG, its members, and the public; reject any or all proposals; cancel this RFP at any time, if doing so would be in the public interest, as determined by OCWCOG in its sole discretion; award the contract to any proposer based on the evaluation criteria set forth in this RFP; waive minor informalities contained in any proposal, when, in OCWCOG’s sole judgment, it is in OCWCOG’s best interest to do so; and request any additional information OCWCOG deems reasonably

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Non-Discrimination

Submittal of a proposal in response to this RFP evidences proposer’s agreement that, in performing the work called for by this RFP and in securing and supplying materials, proposer has not and will not discriminate against: 1) any person on the basis of race, color, religious creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, source of income, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, national origin or ancestry unless the reasonable demands of employment are such that they cannot be met by a person with a particular physical or mental handicap; and 2) a subcontractor in the awarding of a subcontract because the subcontractor is a minority, woman, or emerging small business enterprise certified under ORS 200.055, or a business enterprise that is owned or controlled by, or that employs a disabled veteran as defined in ORS 408.225.

Cost of Submitting a Proposal

Proposer will pay all the costs in submitting its proposal, including, but not limited to, the costs to prepare and submit the Proposal, costs of samples and other supporting materials, costs to participate in demonstrations, or costs associated with protests.

Protests

Proposers may submit a written protest of anything contained in the RFP and may request a change to any provision, specification or term contained in the RFP. Potential Proposers may submit protests concerning the RFP and requests for change to any particular provisions, specifications, or Contract terms contained in the RFP, to the RFP contact in writing no later than seven (7) calendar days prior to the Proposal submission deadline. OCWCOG will not consider any protest to the RFP or request for change submitted after this deadline. Each protest and request for change must include the reasons for the protest or request, and any proposed changes to the RFP provisions, specifications or terms. OCWCOG will resolve all timely submitted protests in accordance with OCWCOG’s policies. OCWCOG will address all timely submitted requests for change within a reasonable time following OCWCOG’s receipt of the request and once addressed, will promptly issue a written decision on the request to the Proposer who submitted the request.

Every Proposer who submits a Proposal shall be notified of its selection status. Any

Proposer who claims to have been adversely affected or aggrieved by the selection of

(the highest ranked/the higher ranked) Proposer(s) must submit a written protest of the selection and the reason for the protest, per ORS 279B.410 to the RFP contact within seven (7) calendar days after the date of the selection notice. OCWCOG will not consider any protest submitted after this submission deadline. OCWCOG will consider and respond in writing to a protest in a timely manner.

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All costs of a protest shall be the responsibility of the protestor and undertaken at the protestor's expense. OCWCOG shall not be liable for the Proposer's damages or costs for filing the protest, on any basis, express or implied.

OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

All Proposals are public record and are subject to public inspection after OCWCOG issues the Notice of the Intent to Award. Application of the Oregon Public Records Law will determine whether any information is actually exempt from disclosure.

All Proposals submitted in response to this RFP become the Property of OCWCOG. By submitting a Proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer grants OCWCOG a non-exclusive, perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free license for the rights to copy, distribute, display, prepare derivative works of and transmit the Proposal solely for the purpose of evaluating the Proposal, negotiating a Contract, if awarded to Proposer, or as otherwise needed to administer the RFP process, and to fulfill obligations under Oregon Public

Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478). Proposals, including supporting materials, will not be returned to Proposer.

The remainder of this page has intentionally been left blank

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ATTACHMENT A - RFP SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST

Please provide Checklist with response to RFP

Cover Letter of Interest

Main Proposal (12-page limit, see details above) o Economic Development Experience and Capacity o Community and Economic Development Knowledge and Engagement o Methodology o Cost Proposal and Budget o References: Narrative examples of three (3) projects that are similar in nature to projects described in the RFP o Minority, Women, Veteran and Emerging Small Business Participation

Evidence of Insurance

Attachment A - RFP Submittal Requirements Checklist

Attachment B – Certified Disadvantage Business Outreach Plan

Attachment C – Proposer Information and Certification Sheet

Attachment D – Responsibility Inquiry Sheet

Attachment E – Compliance Signature Form

Checklist Disclaimer Any checklists that may be contained in this RFP are provided only as a courtesy to prospective Proposer. OCWCOG makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of any Checklist. Prospective Proposer is solely responsible for reviewing and understanding the RFP and complying with all the requirements of this RFP, whether listed in a checklist or not. OCWCOG is not liable for any claims, or subject to any defenses, asserted by Proposer based upon, resulting from, or related to, Proposer’s failure to comprehend all requirements of this RFP.

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ATTACHMENT B - CERTIFIED DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS OUTREACH PLAN

Proposer Name: _______________________________________________________

Date: _________________Contact Name___________________________________

Telephone: ____________________ Email: _________________________________

"Certified Firm" means a small business certified under ORS 200.055 by the Oregon

Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) as minority-owned businesses, woman-owned businesses, businesses that service-disabled veterans own, and emerging small businesses.

Certified Firms must have an equal opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts financed with state funds. By submitting its offer, Proposer certifies that it has taken, and if there are further opportunities, will take reasonable steps to ensure that

Certified Firms are provided an equal opportunity to compete for and participate in the performance of any subcontracts resulting from this procurement.

The information submitted in response to this clause will not be considered in any scored evaluation.

1. Is Proposer an Oregon certified firm? Yes No

If yes, indicate all certification type(s): DBE MBE WBE SDV

ESB

Supply Oregon State Certification Number:

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2. Include a list of Certified Firms that Proposer has had a contractual relationship with within the last two years.

3. Include a list of firms that Proposer has had a contractual relationship with within the last two years that are not Certified Firms but may be minority-owned, woman-owned, disabled veteran-owned or emerging small businesses.

4. Does Proposer foresee any subcontracting opportunities for this procurement?

Yes No

If no, do not complete the rest of this form and submit this first page with your

Proposal.

If yes, please complete the following pages and submit all pages with your Proposal.

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5. Describe the steps Proposer will take to solicit Certified Firms for subcontracting opportunities if awarded a contract from this procurement.

6. Describe the subcontracting opportunities and the approximate dollar value of each that may be available, if awarded a Contract.

7. Would Proposer be willing to report the identity of each subcontractor and the value of each subcontract to COBIO if awarded a Contract from this procurement?

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ATTACHMENT C - PROPOSER INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION SHEET

Legal Name of Proposer:__________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________________

State of Incorporation: _________________ Entity Type: ________________________

Contact Name: _____________________________ Telephone: __________________

Email: ________________________________

Oregon Business Registry Number (if required):________________________________

Are products priced in Proposal are for goods manufactured with recycled materials:

Yes No

Any individual signing below hereby certifies they are an authorized representative of Proposer and that:

1. Proposer understands and accepts the requirements of this RFP. By submitting a Proposal, Proposer agrees to be bound by the Contract terms and conditions in Attachment A and as modified by any Addenda, except for those terms and conditions that OCWCOG has reserved for negotiation, as identified in the RFP.

2. Proposer acknowledges receipt of any and all Addenda to this RFP.

3. Proposal is a Firm Offer for 180 days following the Closing.

4. If awarded a Contract, Proposer agrees to perform the scope of work and meet the performance standards set forth in the final negotiated scope of work of the Contract.

5. I have knowledge regarding Proposer's payment of taxes and by signing below I hereby certify that, to the best of my knowledge, Proposer is not in violation of any tax laws of the state or a political subdivision of the state, including, without limitation, ORS 305.620, and ORS Chapters 316, 317, and 318.

6. Proposer does not discriminate in its employment practices with regard to race, creed, age, religious affiliation, gender, disability, sexual orientation, national origin.

When awarding subcontracts, Proposer does not discriminate against any business certified under ORS 200.055 as a disadvantaged business enterprise, a minority-

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7. Proposer and Proposer's employees, agents, and subcontractors are not included on:

a. the "Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons" list maintained by the

Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States Department of the Treasury found at: www.treasury.gov/ofac/downloads/sdnlist.pdf.; or,

b. the government-wide exclusions lists in the System for Award Management found at: www.sam.gov/portal/SAM/#1

8. Proposer certifies that, to the best of its knowledge, there exists no actual or potential conflict between the business or economic interests of Proposer, its employees, or its agents, on the one hand, and the business or economic interests of the State, on the other hand, arising out of, or relating in any way to, the subject matter of the RFP. If any changes occur with respect to Proposer's status regarding conflict of interest, Proposer shall promptly notify the State in writing.

9. Proposer certifies that all contents of the Proposal (including any other forms or documentation, if required under this RFP) and this Proposal Certification Sheet, are truthful and accurate and have been prepared independently from all other Proposers, and without collusion, fraud, or other dishonesty.

10. Proposer understands that any statement or representation it makes, in response to this RFP, if determined to be false or fraudulent, a misrepresentation, or inaccurate because of the omission of material information could result in a "claim" {as defined by the Oregon False Claims Act, ORS 180.750(1)}, made under Contract being a "false claim" {ORS 180.750(2)} subject to the Oregon False Claims Act, ORS

180.750 to 180.785, and to any liabilities or penalties associated with the making of a false claim under that Act.

11. Proposer acknowledges these certifications are in addition to any certifications required in the Contract and Statement of Work in Attachment A at the time of Contract execution.

Authorized Signature Date

(Print Name and Title) http://www.treasury.gov/ofac/downloads/sdnlist.pdf http://www.sam.gov/portal/SAM/#1

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ATTACHMENT D - RESPONSIBILITY INQUIRY

OCWCOG will determine the responsibility of a Proposer prior to award and execution of a Contract. In addition to this form, OCWCOG may notify Proposer of other documentation required, which may include but is not limited to recent profit-and-loss history, current balance statements and cash flow information, assets-to-liabilities ratio, including number and amount of secured versus unsecured creditor claims, availability of short and long-term financing, bonding capacity, insurability, credit information, materials and equipment, facility capabilities, personnel information, record of performance under previous contracts, etc. Failure to promptly provide requested information or clearly demonstrate responsibility may result in an OCWCOG finding of non-responsibility and rejection.

1. Does Proposer have available the appropriate financial, material, equipment, facility and personnel resources and expertise, or ability to obtain the resources and expertise, necessary to demonstrate the capability of Proposer to meet all contractual responsibilities? Yes No

2. Within the last five years, how many contracts of a similar nature has Proposer completed that, to the extent that the costs associated with and time available to perform the contract remained within Proposer's control, Proposer stayed within the time and budget allotted, and there were no contract claims by any party? Number:

How many contracts did not meet those standards? Number: ______

If any, please explain:

3. Within the last three years has Proposer (including a partner or shareholder owning 10% or more of Proposer's firm) or a major subcontractor (receiving 10% or more of a total contract amount) been criminally or civilly charged, indicted, or convicted in connection with:

• Obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, state, or local) contract or subcontract;

• Violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes relating to the submission of bids or Proposals; and/or

• Embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification, or destruction of records, making false statements, tax evasion, or receiving stolen property?

If yes, indicate the jurisdiction, date of indictment, charge or judgment, and names and summary of charges:

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4. Within the last three years, has Proposer had:

• Any contracts terminated for default by any government, or

• Any lawsuits filed against it by creditors or involving contract disputes?

If yes, please explain. (With regard to judgments, include jurisdiction and date of final judgment or dismissal.)

5. Does Proposer have any outstanding or pending judgments against it? Yes No

Is Proposer experiencing financial distress or having difficulty securing financing?

If yes on either of the above questions, please provide additional details:

Does Proposer have sufficient cash flow to fund day-to-day operations throughout the proposed contract period? Yes No

If no on the above question, please provide additional details:

6. Within the last three years, has Proposer filed a bankruptcy action, filed for reorganization, made a general assignment of assets for the benefit of creditors, or had an action for insolvency instituted against it? Yes No

If yes, indicate the filing dates, jurisdictions, type of action, ultimate resolution, and dates of judgment or dismissal, if applicable:

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7. Does Proposer have all required licenses, insurance and/or registrations, if any, and is Proposer legally authorized to do business in the State of Oregon? Yes No

If no, please explain:

8. Pay Equity Certificate. This certificate is required if Proposer employs 50 or more full-time workers, and the prospective contract price is estimated to exceed $500,000. [This requirement does not apply to architectural, engineering, photogrammetric mapping, transportation planning or land surveying and related services contracts.] Does a current authorized representative of Proposer possess an unexpired Pay Equity Certificate issued by the Department of Administrative Services? Yes No N/A

[If the certificate was provided with the Bid or Proposal submitted for a solicitation related to the prospective contract, then it is not necessary to resubmit it. Just indicate "see Bid" or "see Proposal" in the response field. Otherwise, if applicable, submit a copy of the certificate with this form.]

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

By signature below, the undersigned Authorized Representative on behalf of Proposer certifies to the best of his or her knowledge and belief that the responses provided on this form are complete, accurate, and not misleading.

Proposer Name:__________________________________ RFP: _________________

Project Name: _____________________________________ Date: _______________

Authorized Signature Date

Print Name Title

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ATTACHMENT E - COMPLIANCE SIGNATURE FORM

Every public contract that is subject to Oregon Revised Statute 279B must include a representation and warranty from the contractor that the contractor has complied with the tax laws of this state or a political subdivision of this state, including but not limited to ORS 305.620 and ORS chapters 316, 317, and 318. The public contract must also require a covenant from the contractor to continue to comply with the tax laws of this state or a political subdivision of this state during the term of the public contract and provide that a contractor’s failure to comply with the tax laws of this state or a political subdivision of this state before the contractor executed the public contract or during the term of the public contract is a default for which a contracting OCWCOG may terminate the public contract and seek damages and other relief available under the terms of the public contract or under applicable law.

By signing below, Contractor certifies compliance with the tax laws of the State of

Oregon or a political subdivision of the State of Oregon and provides a covenant to continue to comply with the tax laws of this state or a political subdivision of this state for duration of this contract.

Contractor Signature Date

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ATTACHMENT F – SAMPLE CONTRACT

OREGON CASCADES WEST COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT

This is an agreement by and between OREGON CASCADES WEST COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS, an intergovernmental entity created under the authority of ORS 190.010, hereinafter called OCWCOG, and XXXXXXXXXXXX, an independent consultant hereinafter called CONTRACTOR.

WHEREAS, OCWCOG has need for the services of a contractor with the particular training, ability, knowledge, and experience possessed by CONTRACTOR to assist in the xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein the parties agree as follows:

1. TERM OF CONTRACT: This contract shall become effective upon signature and shall terminate on XXXXXXXXX.

2. SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED: CONTRACTOR shall provide the services as described in Attachment A, SCOPE OF WORK.

3. COMPENSATION: CONTRACTOR shall be paid (SPECIFIC TO THE DETAILS OF THE CONTRACT) Payment will be made upon receipt of invoice – detailing the deliverables outlined in the Scope of Work (Attachment A) and after approval by the Executive Director or their appointed designee. CONTRACTOR invoice

– Exhibit B.

If this agreement crosses fiscal years, OCWCOG’s obligation to pay any amount in the subsequent year is subject to approval of appropriations by the governing body of OCWCOG. Should appropriations not be approved by the governing body, this agreement will terminate at the beginning of the new fiscal year.

4. ASSIGNMENT/DELEGATION: OCWCOG has entered into this agreement in reliance upon the specialized professional skills, experience, resources, or knowledge of CONTRACTOR, accordingly neither party shall assign, subcontract, or transfer any interest in or duty under this agreement without the prior written consent of the other, and no assignment shall be of any force or effect whatsoever unless and until the other party has so consented.

5. STATUS OF CONTRACTOR: The parties intend that CONTRACTOR, in performing the services specified in this agreement, shall act as an independent contractor. Although OCWCOG reserves the right to (i) determine and modify the delivery schedule for work to be performed and (ii) evaluate the quality of the completed performance, only CONTRACTOR shall have the control of the work and the manner in which it is performed. CONTRACTOR is not to be considered an agent or employee of OCWCOG and is not entitled to participate in any pension plan, insurance, bonus, or similar benefits OCWCOG provides its employees.

CONTRACTOR will not be eligible for any federal social security, state workers' compensation, unemployment insurance, or Public Employees Retirement System benefits from amounts paid under this contract, except as a self-employed individual.

If this payment is to be charged against Federal funds, CONTRACTOR certifies

RFP Cascades West Innovation Hub Page 25 of 34 08.08.2024 that it is not currently employed by the Federal government and the amount charged does not exceed its normal charge for the type of service provided.

OCWCOG will report the total amount of all payments to CONTRACTOR, in accordance with Federal Internal Revenue Service and State of Oregon Department of Revenue regulations. CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for any Federal or State taxes applicable to amounts paid under this contract.

6. WARRANTY: OCWCOG has relied upon representations by CONTRACTOR regarding its professional ability and training as a material inducement to enter into this contract. CONTRACTOR represents and warrants that all its work will be performed in accordance with generally accepted professional practices and standards as well as the requirements of applicable federal, state, and local laws, it being understood that acceptance of CONTRACTOR's work by OCWCOG shall not operate as a waiver or release of such warranty.

7. INDEMNIFICATION: CONTRACTOR shall hold harmless, indemnify, and defend OCWCOG, its officers, agents, and employees from any and all liability, actions, claims, losses, damages or other costs including attorney's fees and witness costs (at both trial and appeal level, whether or not a trial or appeal ever takes place) that may be asserted by any person or entity arising from, during or in connection with the performance of the work described in this contract, except liability arising out of the sole negligence of OCWCOG and its employees. Such indemnification shall also cover claims brought against OCWCOG under state or federal workers’ compensation laws. If any aspect of this indemnity or the above warranty shall be found to be illegal or invalid for any reason whatsoever, such illegality or invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this indemnification or the above warranty.

8. INSURANCE: CONTRACTOR and any subcontractors will maintain insurance coverage as set out in Attachment B. Such insurance shall remain in full force and effect throughout the term of this contract.

If CONTRACTOR employs one or more workers as defined in ORS 656.027 and such workers are subject to the provisions of ORS Chapter 656, CONTRACTOR shall maintain currently valid workers' compensation insurance covering all such workers during the entire period of this contract.

9. METHOD AND PLACE OF GIVING NOTICE, SUBMITTING BILLS, AND

MAKING PAYMENTS: All notices, bills and payments shall be made in writing and may be given by personal delivery, U.S. mail, or electronic mail. Notices, bills, and payments sent by mail should be addressed as follows:

OCWCOG: Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments Attn: Finance Dept.

1400 Queen Ave SE, Ste 201 Albany, Oregon 97322

(541) 967-8720

CONTRACTOR: Name Address

City/State/Zip 97333 Phone Email

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When so addressed, said item shall be deemed given upon deposit in the United States Mail, postage prepaid. In all other instances, notices, bills, and payments shall be deemed given at the time of actual delivery. Changes may be made in the names and addresses of the person to whom notices, bills, and payments are to be given by giving notice pursuant to this paragraph.

10. TERMINATION: At any time, with or without cause, OCWCOG, in its sole discretion shall have the absolute right to terminate this agreement by giving written notice to CONTRACTOR. If OCWCOG terminates pursuant to this paragraph, CONTRACTOR shall be entitled to receive as full payment for all services satisfactorily rendered and expenses incurred, an amount which bears the same ratio to the total fees specified in the agreement as the services satisfactorily rendered by CONTRACTOR bear to the total services otherwise required to be performed for such total fee; provided, that there shall be…