rfq_13216.pdf

REQUEST FOR QUOTES (RFQ) 13216

COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO

SUPPORT, TRAINING, AND EDUCATION FOR PROCUREMENT (STEP) PROGRAM

July 10, 2026

A. KEY INFORMATION

1. The County of San Diego is seeking quotes from firms interested in providing a support, training, and education for procurement (STEP) program (“Offerors”).

2. The County anticipates a contract term of an initial (base) period of one (1) year with four (4) one-year option periods.

3. The County has posted this solicitation on its official BuyNet website at https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/ . To see all information related to this RFQ, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

4. The Contracting Officer for this solicitation is Joseph Craft, Procurement Contracting Officer, Joseph.Craft@sdcounty.ca.gov.

5. Schedule: This timeline is subject to change at any time, at the County’s sole discretion. The County will issue an addendum for changes to the Questions due date, or Quote due date.

Event Description Date and Time (San Diego Time) Questions due July 24, 2026 prior to 5:00 p.m.

Quotes due August 21, 2026 prior to 5:00 p.m.

6. Questions:

6.1. Offerors should submit all Questions, including requests for clarification related to definition or interpretation of this RFQ, in writing by the Date and Time specified in the Schedule. Offerors should submit Questions via BuyNet, by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality.

6.2. Non-Offerors should direct inquiries regarding this solicitation to the Contracting Officer.

7. Table of Contents:

A. Key Information B. RFQ Instructions and Rules C. Submittal Items D. Required Forms E. Statement of Work F. Payment Schedule G. Draft Agreement

B. RFQ INSTRUCTIONS AND RULES

1. INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A QUOTE

1.1. It is Offeror’s responsibility to submit a quote based on the most current RFQ, addenda thereto, County’s responses to Questions, any other information posted on BuyNet, and any diligence material made available by

MAGGIE RAMSBERGER

INTERIM DIRECTOR

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING

5560 OVERLAND AVENUE, SUITE 270, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92123-1204

PHONE (858) 505-6367 FAX (858) 715-6452

BRENDA MILLER

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/ mailto:Joseph.Craft@sdcounty.ca.gov

REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS (RFQ) 13216

EXHIBIT A - STATEMENT OF WORK, ATTACHMENT 1

TASK ORDER PROCESS

the County. Offerors are advised to regularly check BuyNet for information. The County has no obligation to contact Offerors directly with any such RFQ-related information.

1.1.1. To see all information related to this RFQ, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

1.1.2. If an Offeror is unable to download this document, an Offeror may request a hard copy from Department of Purchasing and Contracting’s front desk or contact clerical support at (858) 505-6367.

1.2. Forms required to be submitted with Offerors response to this RFQ are included in this RFQ or posted on the

County’s web site at: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html.

1.2.1. The County may update posted forms from time to time. Unless otherwise specified, Offerors may submit the version of a form in place as of the date of the posting of this RFQ or any later version thereof.

1.3. Offeror must submit a complete original quote in accordance with the format provided in this solicitation to the County of San Diego, Department of Purchasing and Contracting, through electronic upload to BuyNet before the Date and Time listed in Schedule.

1.3.1. If Offeror is unable to submit via BuyNet for any reason, Offeror may submit its quote via email to the

Contracting Officer listed in this document or provide the Purchasing and Contracting front desk with either (i) electronic files on CD/DVD; or, (ii) a printed quote. Offeror must prominently mark such submissions with the RFQ number on the outside of the packaging. Please use this method only if unable to submit through BuyNet.

2. QUESTIONS

2.1. Offerors shall direct requests for explanation regarding the RFQ or related documents to the Contracting

Officer, in writing, as a question (“Question”). Offerors may submit Questions by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality in BuyNet.

2.2. The County may choose not to respond to Questions received after the date and time stated in the Schedule for Question submission. Offeror is responsible for ensuring that Questions are received by the County.

3. QUOTE FORMAT

3.1. Submit electronic quotes as files in .pdf format, except where specified otherwise. For pages other than signature pages, converted and searchable formats are preferred.

3.2. All quotes shall be signed with a handwritten signature by an authorized officer or employee of Offeror.

4. QUOTE ORGANIZATION

4.1. Your quote should be organized in accordance with the Submittal Items in this RFQ.

4.1.1. Offerors shall organize content to correspond to the applicable exhibit and question or item within each exhibit.

4.1.2. Offerors shall separate each exhibit into one or more files, clearly named as to the exhibit and order.

4.1.3. Pages shall be consecutively numbered within each exhibit at the bottom or top margin of each page.

4.1.4. Cost/Price information:

4.1.4.1. Offerors must place all cost and pricing information within the Cost/Price exhibit. Price shall be inclusive of all proposed compensation.

4.2. Confidential/Proprietary information:

4.2.1. The County is a public agency subject to the California Public Records Act, Government Code §

7920.000, et seq. Some or all of the documents submitted in response to this RFQ may be subject to disclosure, and the County intends to publish any resulting contracts to its public website.

4.2.2. It is Offeror’s responsibility to identify and separate into a “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit and to provide a signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement for:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html

4.2.2.1. All confidential information that Offeror represents, with legal basis, is exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, including PI (Personal Information), PII (Personally Identifiable Information), or PHI (Protected Health Information);

4.2.2.2. Any proprietary or other information Offeror represents, with legal basis, is exempt from disclosure under the California Public Records Act and wishes to protect from disclosure.

4.2.3. The “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit must be clearly labeled with all pages marked as

“CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY.”

4.2.4. Offeror should reference material in the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit where it is needed to respond to a Submittal Item through citation to the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit (for example “See response 1 contained within the ‘CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY’ exhibit for staff Social Security numbers”).

4.2.5. If the County determines that a submission improperly designates information as confidential or proprietary, the County may, at its sole discretion: (i) deem the information releasable; (ii) declare the submission non-conforming/non-responsive; (iii) remove such information, or (iv) take any other appropriate action. (Note: Pricing and Terms and Conditions are generally not confidential under the California Public Records Act).

5. QUOTE EVALUATION

5.1. Evaluations may consider factors such as technical merit, experience, capacity, history of Offeror compliance, availability, price, and more to determine the quote(s) that provide the best value to the County.

5.2. During evaluation, the County may appropriately consider the sustainability and social, human health, environmental, and economic impact of Offeror’s proposed products and/or approach to providing goods and/or services, in accordance with Board Policy B-67. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their quotes, to the degree related to the goods or services sought.

5.3. During evaluation, the County may appropriately evaluate the cultural competency of Offeror and Offeror’s proposed approach to providing goods and services. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their quotes, to the degree related to the goods or services sought.

5.4. When evaluating an Offeror’s cost or pricing, the County may also consider the effect of the quote on the overall total cost to the County.

6. COUNTY COMMITMENT

6.1. This RFQ does not commit the County to award a contract, nor does it commit the County to pay any of

Offeror’s costs incurred in the preparation or submission of the quote. Further, Offeror shall not incur any reimbursable cost in anticipation of a contract award.

6.2. Neither Offeror nor any of its representatives shall have any claims whatsoever against the County or any of its respective officials, agents, or employees arising out of or relating to this RFQ or these procedures (other than those arising under a definitive contract with Offeror in accordance with the terms thereof).

6.3. The County reserves the right to separately procure the same or similar goods or services.

6.4. The County may withhold all information regarding this procurement until after negotiations are complete, including, but not limited to: the number of quotes received; the identity of Offeror(s); the content of quotes;

the County’s evaluation and results thereof. Information releasable after the conclusion of negotiations is subject to the disclosure requirements and withholding exemptions of the California Public Records Act.

6.5. Pursuant to County Charter §§ 703.10 and 916, award of a contract resulting from this RFQ may be subject to the County’s requirement to determine that the services can be provided more economically and efficiently by an independent contractor than by persons employed in the Classified Service.

6.6. In the event that an Offeror is involved in a merger, acquisition, or other change in control, the County reserves the right to award a contract to a resulting entity.

7. DILIGENCE AND DUTY TO INQUIRE

7.1. Should Offeror find discrepancies in or omissions from, or be in doubt as to the meaning of, the RFQ or related documents, Offeror shall have a duty to submit a Question to the County.

7.2. Offerors are expected to perform reasonable due diligence with regard to this RFQ and the work required, including, but not limited to, information that is publicly or otherwise reasonably available and, if applicable, information that can be obtained during a site visit (including verification of measurements, conditions, and other attributes). Neither the selected Offeror(s), nor any Offerors, shall be entitled to any price adjustment or other relief based upon information that was discovered or should have been discovered through due diligence.

7.3. The County makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of any diligence material or other information provided by the County or any of its agents, representatives, contractors, or consultants. Such information may reflect good faith assumptions, estimates, or projections, which may or may not prove to be correct.

7.4. Offeror should not rely upon oral statements made or explanations given by the County, including any oral responses to Questions or other inquiries. No prior, current, or post award communication(s) with any officer, agent, or employee of the County shall affect or modify any terms or requirements of this RFQ, except as explicitly provided for in this RFQ.

8. OFFEROR COMMUNICATIONS

8.1. All communications from Offeror (including its employees, agents, and representatives) to the County or its officers and employees (including consultants working on or assisting with this procurement), related to this RFQ or Offeror’s quote, must be directed in writing exclusively to the Contracting Officer, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer. Offerors shall not communicate with or attempt to contact any other County personnel about this solicitation, except as otherwise allowed for in this RFQ or by law. Any improper contact may, at the County’s sole discretion, cause Offeror to be removed from consideration for contract award.

8.2. If Offeror issues any public announcement or otherwise engages in communication that, in the County’s sole determination, compromises the integrity of this RFQ process or attempts to restrain competition, Offeror may be removed from consideration for award.

8.3. Audio and/or video recording of presentations, discussions, negotiations, or other communications with the County regarding this RFQ are prohibited, unless specifically authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer.

9. SOLICITING EMPLOYEES

9.1. Until contract award, Offerors shall not, directly or indirectly, solicit any employee of the County to leave the

County’s employ in order to accept employment with Offeror, its affiliates, actual or prospective contractors, or any person acting in concert with Offeror without prior written approval of the County’s Contracting Officer.

This paragraph does not prevent the employment by Offeror of a County employee who has initiated contact with Offeror.

10. PROHIBITED CONTRACTS AND SUBCONTRACTS

10.1. In accordance with Section 67 of the San Diego County Administrative Code, the County shall not contract with, and shall reject any quote submitted by, the person or entities specified below, unless the Board of Supervisors finds that special circumstances exist which justify the approval of such contract:

10.1.1. Persons employed by the County or of public agencies for which the Board of Supervisors is the governing body;

10.1.2. Profit-making firms or businesses in which employees described in subsection 11.1.1 serve as officers, principals, partners, or major shareholders;

10.1.3. Persons who, within the immediately preceding twelve (12) months, came within the provisions of subsection 11.1.1 and who (i) were employed in positions of substantial responsibility in the area of service to be performed by the contract; or, (ii) participated in any way in developing the contract or its service specifications; and

10.1.4. Profit-making firms or businesses in which the former employees described in subsection 11.1.3 serve as officers, principals, partners, or major shareholders.

10.2. Per Board Policy A-79, a successful Offeror that is a non-profit corporation shall not subcontract any work under the agreement with a related for-profit subcontractor where an interlocking directorate, management, or ownership relationship exists, unless specifically authorized by the Board of Supervisors.

10.3. Offeror certifies that, if awarded a contract under this RFQ, such contract will be in compliance with Sections

11.1 and 11.2 above. Offeror shall promptly notify the County of any change in circumstance affecting these provisions.

11. CALIFORNIA REVENUE & TAXATION CODE § 18662

11.1. In compliance with California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662, if Offeror is a non-resident of California

(out-of-state invoices) that receives California source income and has not completed Franchise Tax Board Form 590, there may be a backup withholding on all payments. Fifteen (15) business days prior to the first payment from the County, new suppliers or suppliers with expired forms or forms with incorrect information must submit new forms to the County (forms are available from the Franchise Tax Board website listed below).

11.2. Under certain circumstances, Offerors may be eligible for reduced or waived nonresident withholding. If Offeror has already received a waiver or a reduced withholding response from the State of California and the response remains valid, Offeror should submit the response to the County in lieu of the forms. Failure to submit the required forms will result in withholding of payments. Offerors should access the Franchise Tax Board websites, listed below, for tax forms and relevant information regarding non-resident withholding, including waivers or reductions. The County will not give Offerors any tax advice. It is recommended that Offerors speak with their tax advisers and/or the State of California for guidance.

Franchise Tax Board Websites:

https://www.ftb.ca.gov https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

11.3. If selected for award, Offeror must submit applicable forms to the Auditor & Controller via fax, at (858) 694- 2060, or mail originals to: County of San Diego, 5530 Overland Avenue, Suite 410, San Diego, CA 92123. The P.O. Number or Contract Number (if available) and “California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662” must appear on fax cover sheet and/or the outside of the mailing envelope.

12. W-9 FORM

12.1. If selected for award, Offeror must complete and submit a W-9 form if a current form is not on file with the

County.

https://www.ftb.ca.gov/ https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

C. SUBMITTAL ITEMS

1. EXHIBIT 1 – REQUIRED FORMS

1.1 Submit a completed and signed Offeror’s Cover Page (PC600) form

• Required for all Offerors

• Located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf

1.2 Submit a completed and signed Representations and Certifications form (PC601)

• Required for all Offerors

• Located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf

1.3 Submit a completed and signed Small-Local Business Self-Certification Form (PC610)

• All Offerors are encouraged to complete this form to support County data collection.

• Located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf

1.4 Submit a completed and signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement (PC620) (if applicable).

• Required if submitting Confidential/Proprietary Information (see RFQ Instructions and Rules section 4.2)

• Located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2. EXHIBIT 2 – PROGRAM/TECHNICAL EXHIBIT

TECHNICAL APPROACH

2.1 Compliance to “Exhibit A – Statement of Work (SOW)” requirements. Confirm your agreement to the requirements as stated.

YES ☐ NO ☐

If your organization has exceptions to the SOW requirements, please indicate your proposed changes in your response. Provide explanations to support any alternative standards/language proposed. Failure to specifically reject a proposed requirement will be deemed an acceptance of such requirements.

2.2 Provide a program administration outline plan for the Support, Training, And Education For Procurement (STEP) program that addresses the requirements detailed in in Exhibit A, Statement of Work, including:

2.2.1 Outline your approach to managing and enhancing the resource library including:

2.2.1.1 Describe your methodology for updating, maintaining and expanding the STEP Resource Library, including the resources, tools and techniques to be utilized to effectively communicate complex ideas through digital content such as short videos, toolkits and guides.

2.2.1.2 Identify strategies to be utilized to provide resource library content in Spanish and other languages as requested.

2.2.2 Outline your approach to providing one-on-one technical assistance including:

2.2.2.1 Describe your approach for delivering individualized technical assistance tailored to businesses at varying levels of procurement readiness.

2.2.2.2 Describe how you will tailor one‑on‑one technical assistance specifically for small nonprofit organizations participating in the STEP program.

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2.2.2.3 Describe how you will provide one‑on‑one technical assistance in multiple languages and ensure culturally responsive service delivery.

2.2.3 Outline your approach to developing, implementing and updating a comprehensive marketing and outreach plan, including:

2.2.3.1 Describe the communication tools and techniques you will use to encourage participation in

STEP services.

2.2.3.2 Describe the stakeholder networks or partnerships you will leverage to support outreach and engagement

2.2.3.3 Describe your strategies and tools for effectively reaching and engaging the diverse business populations identified in the Target Population, and for ensuring all outreach materials and communications are culturally appropriate, accessible, and available in Spanish and other languages as requested.

2.2.3.4 Describe how your organization will plan, manage, and execute County‑related small business events, including logistics, marketing, stakeholder coordination, and budgeting.

2.2.4 Outline your approach to facilitating workshops, including describing your capacity and methodology for developing and delivering workshops under task orders, including curriculum design, facilitation, promotion, and data collection

2.2.5 Describe your proposed approach for developing the Reporting Plan, including metrics, data sources, submission format, and reporting cadence.

2.2.5.1 Explain how your organization will collect, analyze, and report quantitative and qualitative data such as participant demographics, activity outputs, client outcomes, and satisfaction measures.

ORGANIZATIONAL EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

2.3 Describe your organization’s experience delivering procurement technical assistance to small businesses, nonprofits, and other diverse business populations, including how you tailor services to meet their specific needs.

2.4 Provide evidence of experience developing and delivering workshops, trainings, events and one‑on‑one technical assistance related to government contracting or business readiness.

2.5 Provide examples of prior work supporting government procurement readiness or small‑business capacity building, including any experience with County of San Diego procurement processes or similar public‑sector contracting environments.

2.6 Description of experience serving businesses that are new to government contracting or have historically faced barriers to public procurement.

2.7 Describe your experience developing video‑based, on‑demand, or self‑guided learning resources to support small businesses or nonprofits.

2.8 Provide an organizational chart identifying key personnel assigned to this project, including their roles and areas of expertise

2.9 Identify bilingual staff and the languages offered, and describe how these staff contribute to culturally and linguistically responsive service delivery.

2.10 Describe staffing availability, roles, and capacity to deliver the full scope of services, including technical assistance, marketing and outreach, workshop facilitation, and data analytics/reporting.

2.11 Describe your organization’s operational capacity, systems, and tools for managing data, reporting, and program compliance, particularly in a government or public‑sector context.

2.12 Describe your experience working with diverse, underserved, and hard‑to‑reach business populations, and how this experience informs your approach to supporting Small‑Local Businesses and nonprofits in the County of San Diego.

2.13 Provide three (3) references for government organizations for which you provide similar services. References should include the name of the organization, the contact person, contact title, email, and phone number. If you are unable to provide governmental references, provide 3 references for non-governmental organizations of similar size/scope to the County of San Diego.

2.14 Provide disclosure of any lawsuits, pending litigation and/or investigation that involve failure or alleged failure to deliver performance on contracts and/or lawsuits/litigation that may directly impact this contract (e.g., non-compliance with legal requirements).

2.14.1 Provide information regarding status, resolution, and if any, penalties, fines, or other actions required.

If there are none, state “None” in your response.

3. EXHIBIT 3 – COST/PRICE EXHIBIT

3.1 Submit a completed Payment Schedule.

3.2 Provide a pricing schedule that breaks down the proposed cost for each required service. Include a brief description of what is included in each cost and identify any assumptions or optional costs.

4. EXHIBIT 4 – ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

4.1 Confirm acceptance “YES/NO” of the County of San Diego’s Draft Agreement (including insurance requirements):

YES ☐ NO ☐

4.1.1 If “NO,” provide a detailed list of exceptions to the terms and conditions, the nature of its concern, and what terms the Offeror is willing to accept.

Note: The Offeror will be deemed to have accepted any terms and conditions of the Contract to which it does not take exception to. The County may, as part of its evaluation process, conclude that exceptions are so numerous and/or material as to make Offeror’s response to the solicitation unacceptable.

5. EXHIBIT 5 – CONFIDENTIAL PROPRIETARY

5.1 Include any Confidential/Proprietary Information in this exhibit, in accordance with RFQ Instructions and Rules section 4.2

D. REQUIRED FORMS

(RESERVED)

EXHIBIT A – STATEMENT OF WORK

E. STATEMENT OF WORK

1. Scope of Work/Purpose

Contractor shall administer the County of San Diego’s (County) Support, Training, and Education for Procurement (STEP) program, which provides procurement technical assistance to local small businesses and small nonprofit organizations interested in contracting with the County. The STEP program offers one‑on‑one guidance, workshops, resources, and outreach activities to help participants build the knowledge, tools, and confidence necessary to successfully navigate and compete in the County’s procurement process. This program supports the County’s goal of directing 25% of its annual contract spend to Small-Local Businesses.

In administering the STEP program, the Contractor shall implement a holistic and adaptive approach designed to reach and uplift the County’s diverse small‑business ecosystem, including small nonprofit organizations, which are recognized as small‑local businesses for the purposes of this program. Central to this approach is a strong, strategic marketing and outreach effort that ensures historically underserved and hard‑to‑reach communities receive timely, relevant, and accessible information about County contracting opportunities and STEP services. The program framework is intentionally flexible, enabling the Contractor and the County to develop workshops, events, and technical assistance activities that respond to emerging trends, new procurement needs, and feedback from the small‑business and nonprofit communities. This adaptability ensures the STEP program remains responsive, community‑informed, and aligned with the evolving landscape of County contracting and local business needs.

2. Background Information

The County of San Diego (County) is committed to expanding opportunities for small and diverse businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community-based organizations to participate in County contracting. In September 2019, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors adopted the Enhancing Contracting Opportunities and Accountability Framework to identify ways to diversify the supplier base, simplify contracting processes, reduce barriers to entry, and strengthen public accountability and compliance. As part of this Framework, the County launched its first technical assistance program to equip businesses and nonprofits with the knowledge and skills needed to compete for County contracts, including training on bidding and estimating, project management, bond basics, and financial management.

On April 30, 2024 (12), and August 27, 2024 (22) the San Diego County Board of Supervisors directed staff further strengthen procurement and contracting practices. Through these actions, the Economic Prosperity through Innovative Contracting (EPIC) initiative was created to advance an inclusive and equitable local economy by using contracting as a tool for economic growth. EPIC supports the County’s goal of directing 25% of its annual contract spend to Small- Local Businesses. Through extensive community engagement, businesses, nonprofits, and business support organizations highlighted the need for more clear communication, ongoing outreach, expanded technical assistance, and better guidance for navigating County procurement. These findings are summarized in the Community Engagement and Findings Report. These insights informed the procurement policy reforms adopted on August 26, 2025 (29), which expanded the definition of small-local businesses to include nonprofits, veteran-owned and disabled veteran-owned businesses, and businesses meeting certification criteria.

To further support local economic participation, the County created the Small Business Development Unit within the Office of Economic Development and Government Affairs. It also launched the Business Engagement and Strategic Training (BEST) Initiative to offer programs designed to support Small-Local Businesses at all stages of their lifecycle.

Under BEST, the previously established procurement technical assistance program was strengthened and transitioned into the Support, Training, and Education for Procurement (STEP) program.

3. Goals and Outcomes https://ehq-production-us-california.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/bcfc4b3268a13213471aae234b821d329a6ca109/original/1750282301/5665bbdafd59fd556b15e9c9c98cfd38_FINAL%20Enhancing%20Procurment%20Community%20Engagement%20Report_6.2025.pdf?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Credential=AKIA4KKNQAKIPIPQP5NM%2F20260406%2Fus-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Date=20260406T211702Z&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Signature=914625536a0b861c084b683b5a3473a564ae65bf9ac9c6d5897859fb83f911cc https://ehq-production-us-california.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/bcfc4b3268a13213471aae234b821d329a6ca109/original/1750282301/5665bbdafd59fd556b15e9c9c98cfd38_FINAL%20Enhancing%20Procurment%20Community%20Engagement%20Report_6.2025.pdf?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Credential=AKIA4KKNQAKIPIPQP5NM%2F20260406%2Fus-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Date=20260406T211702Z&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Signature=914625536a0b861c084b683b5a3473a564ae65bf9ac9c6d5897859fb83f911cc

3.1. Goals: Increase the participation of Small‑Local Businesses in County procurement by expanding the number of firms that actively compete for solicitations, secure contract awards, and successfully perform under County contracts.

3.2. Outcome Objectives: Contractor shall achieve the following objectives:

3.2.1. Increase awareness of County contracting opportunities among Small-Local Businesses.

3.2.2. Increase the number of Small-Local Businesses registered in BuyNet.

3.2.3. Provide training and guidance to help Small-Local Businesses prepare competitive proposals for County contracts.

3.2.4. Support Small-Local Businesses in successfully performing and sustaining work as County contractors.

4. Target Population and Geographic Area

4.1. Target Population: Contractor shall provide the services described herein to the following target population:

Contractor shall provide services to small businesses, nonprofit organizations and community based organizations in the San Diego County area, including the unincorporated communities, that meet the County of San Diego’s definition of a Small-Local Business, including but not limited to Veteran Owned Businesses (VOBs), and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBEs), woman owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, LGBTQIA+ owned businesses, Native American-owned and tribally owned businesses, and other disadvantaged business enterprises.

4.2. Geographical/Regional Service Area(s): Services under this contract shall be provided countywide, serving small business organizations located in both the incorporated cities and unincorporated communities of San Diego County. Services may be delivered virtually, in person, or through a hybrid model, depending on the type of service provided and the needs of participating businesses. Contractors are expected to ensure that services are reasonably accessible to businesses throughout the County.

4.3. Contractors may provide services from their own facilities, partner locations, community-based venues, or other appropriate settings.

4.4. Hours of operation may vary depending on the services rendered, including scheduled appointments, workshops, trainings, and outreach events. Contractors should ensure that service availability reasonably accommodates the needs of small business organizations.

4.5. Contractors are responsible for ensuring that any facilities used to provide in-person services are accessible to the public and compliant with applicable accessibility requirements, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as applicable.

5. Definitions

Small-Local Business: For purposes of this Scope of Work, a Small-Local Business refers to a business or organization that meets the County of San Diego’s definition of both a “Small Business” and a “Local Business” under the San Diego County Board of Supervisors Policy B-53 Small-Local Business Preference Program.

B-53 Small-Local Business Policy (SLBP).

A summary of the definition is provided on the Small-Local Business Preference webpage:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cao/edga/small-business/small-local-preference.html

6. Specific Requirements for Service Delivery https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_diego/latest/sandiego_board/b_53__small__local__business__policy_(_s_l_b_p) https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cao/edga/small-business/small-local-preference.html

6.1. Resource Library:

6.1.1. Contractor shall maintain, update, and enhance the County’s existing online resource library, including short educational videos and related material for Small-Local Businesses on topics related to doing business with the County.

6.1.2. Contractor shall develop new materials, which may include, but are not limited to:

6.1.2.1. Short-form instructional videos

6.1.2.2. Digital handouts and toolkits

6.1.2.3. Web-based content or guides

6.1.3. Contractor shall ensure all topics and content align with current procurement practices and business needs.

6.1.4. The Contractor shall develop and submit a comprehensive Resource Library Plan within twenty (20) business days of contract execution for County approval that includes, at a minimum:

6.1.4.1. Recommended updates to existing materials

6.1.4.2. New content topics and formats

6.1.4.3. Enhancements to improve usability, accessibility, and engagement

6.1.4.4. Timelines

6.1.5. At the start of each contract year, Contractor shall develop and submit an annual Resource Library Plan for County approval.

6.1.6. All videos and materials shall comply with County branding and accessibility guidelines and be compatible with County web platform(s).

6.1.7. Materials shall be clear, actionable, and professionally designed.

6.1.8. Contractor shall ensure multilingual accessibility by providing materials in English, Spanish, and other languages as directed by the County. Content shall be structured to enable equivalent information across languages.

6.1.9. All materials developed for the resource library under this contract by the Contractor, shall be submitted for County review and approval prior to publication.

6.2. One-on-One Technical Assistance:

6.2.1. Contractor shall provide individualized technical assistance to Small-Local Businesses referred by the

County, partners, or engaged through outreach activities.

6.2.2. Technical assistance shall include, but not be limited to:

6.2.2.1. A Business readiness assessment for contracting

6.2.2.2. BuyNet registration and navigation support

6.2.2.3. Identification and matching of procurement opportunities (including opportunities for subcontractor participation with prime contractors on County procurements)

6.2.2.4. Support businesses with the development and review of submittals for all applicable County solicitation types, including quotes, bids, proposals, Statements of Qualifications, and other procurement-related responses.

6.2.2.5. Post-award guidance, including compliance and contract administration

6.2.3. Contractor shall tailor assistance based on the business’s level of readiness, experience and need.

6.2.4. Contractor shall provide language access through bilingual staff and/or interpretation/translation services as needed, and ensure materials are available in both English and Spanish with equivalent information across languages.

6.2.5. Contractor shall not act as a representative of the County in contract administration or provide official interpretations of County solicitation/contract terms. Businesses with specific active solicitation/contractual questions shall be directed to the appropriate County contracting officer (listed in County solicitations) or other procurement representatives.

6.2.6. Contractor shall provide the County with a list of qualified vendors that may be capable of providing specific goods or services requested by County. Contractor shall be clear in their communication to qualified Small- Local Businesses that these requests are not a guarantee of work or purchase.

6.2.7. Assistance may include identifying businesses that have participated in STEP technical assistance, business readiness activities, workshops, or outreach efforts and that align with requested service categories, industries, commodities, or geographic areas.

6.3. Marketing:

6.3.1. The Contractor shall develop and submit a comprehensive marketing and outreach plan to promote the STEP program and County contracting opportunities within twenty (20) business days of contract execution for County approval.

6.3.1.1. Plan shall include at a minimum

6.3.1.1.1. A Goal, objectives, strategies and target outcomes

6.3.1.1.2. Identified target audiences

6.3.1.1.3. Key messages

6.3.1.1.4. Marketing channels and tactics

6.3.1.1.5. Partners engagement approach

6.3.1.1.6. Timeline and workplan

6.3.1.1.7. Metrics and reporting

6.3.2. Contractor shall utilize County tools such as the procurement forecast and BuyNet to inform outreach and promote relevant County opportunities.

6.3.3. Contractor is encouraged to prioritize outreach strategies that effectively reach Small-Local Businesses that have not previously participated in County contracting opportunities.

6.3.4. Contractor shall ensure materials and outreach efforts are culturally competent, linguistically appropriate, and accessible to businesses with limited English proficiency.

6.3.5. Contractor shall provide language access through bilingual staff and/or interpretation/translation services as needed, and ensure marketing materials are available in both English and Spanish with equivalent information across languages.

6.3.6. Contractor shall update marketing and outreach plan each contract year and submit for County approval.

7. Events

7.1. Contractor shall conduct a minimum of one event related to Small Local Businesses on behalf of the County a year. Additional events will be conducted as requested by the County.

7.2. Contractor shall be responsible for planning, coordinating, and hosting at least one STEP-related event per year.

Contractor’s proposed cost or hourly rate shall be inclusive of all event logistics and allowable event-related costs, including but not limited to planning, coordination, room rentals, setup, materials, and other costs necessary to successfully host the event. In no event may Contractor expend more than $7,5000 per event for room rentals:

7.2.1. Coordinating with the County to determine the focus, format, and logistics of the event. Examples of event focus include, but are not limited to: general information on doing business with the County, Prime/Subcontractor networking, and special procurement topics.

7.2.2. Conducting planning meetings with County staff and other event stakeholders

7.2.3. Managing event marketing and registration

7.2.4. Securing venues

7.2.5. Coordinating and communicating with event stakeholders including but not limited to exhibitors, presenters, speakers and volunteers where appropriate.

8. Task Orders

8.1. Contractor shall provide technical assistance workshops on a task order basis (See Attachment 1), as requested by the County. Workshops may include topics such as, but not limited to:

8.1.1. Understanding the County of San Diego procurement process by solicitation type

8.1.2. Building foundational knowledge needed to compete for and manage County contracts

8.1.3. Technical assistance for specific procurement opportunities

8.1.4. Increasing awareness of the County’s Small-Local Business support programs and services

8.2. The County will initiate services using a Task Order Form (See Attachment 2). Both Parties shall agree to and sign a Task Order prior to the commencement of services. At a minimum, each Task Order will include the following elements

8.2.1. Task Order title and description of workshop, including deliverables

8.2.2. Period of performance

8.2.3. Workshop format (e.g., virtual, in-person, hybrid), as applicable

8.2.4. Target audience and participant goals, if applicable

8.2.5. Cost in accordance with the Pricing Schedule and detailed budget, if required

8.2.6. Data collection and reporting requirements, consistent with Section 9

8.2.7. Any other information required to carry out the workshop services

8.2.8. Authorized signatures by each Party

8.3. The County may request additional workshop topics to address emerging needs, targeted industries, or specific contracting opportunities.

8.4. Contractor shall be responsible for developing and updating workshop materials, promoting workshops, facilitating sessions, recording workshops as needed and collecting participant and outcome data as requested by the County.

8.5. A Task Order shall be fully executed prior to commencement of any workshop services. Any alterations, variations, or modifications to an approved Task Order shall be made in writing and executed by authorized signatories of both Parties.

9. Administrative Requirements

9.1. Contractor shall meet with the COR and County Program Staff within ten (10) business days of contract execution to discuss planning, expectations and address questions on the required comprehensive Reporting Plan Marketing and Outreach Plan, and Resource Library Plan.

9.2. Contractor shall participate in at least quarterly meetings with County staff to review performance, progress, and program outcomes.

9.3. All materials developed under this contract by the Contractor, including but not limited to presentations, handouts, and event flyers, shall be submitted for County review and approval prior to use.

9.4. Contractor shall ensure all outreach, materials, and services are designed to reach a diverse range of small businesses, including those with limited English proficiency.

9.5. Contractor shall provide language access for all services and materials developed through bilingual staff or interpretation and translation services.

9.6. Contractor shall ensure that all services, materials, media, messages, and advertisements are culturally competent and linguistically appropriate to the target population.

9.7. Contractor shall ensure compliance with County accessibility and digital standards. County digital standards are available at: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/cto/digital-experience-standards.html.

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/digital-experience-standards/

10. Data Collection and Reporting Requirements

10.1. The Contractor shall develop and submit a comprehensive Reporting Plan within fifteen (15) business days of

County approval of the report plan outline submitted to the County. The plan must identify the metrics that will be tracked to monitor program activities, participant outcomes, and format data will be submitted.

10.2. The Contractor shall submit monthly progress reports detailing the tracked metrics, activities conducted, challenges encountered, and any recommended adjustments. Reports should include both quantitative data and qualitative insights. Specifics of monthly report will be agreed upon based on approval of the Reporting Plan.

10.3. Subsequent to the approval of the comprehensive Reporting Plan, Contractor shall submit a monthly report to the COR and program staff by the 15th of the month with required data.

10.4. Data to be submitted to the County includes, at a minimum:

10.4.1. One on One Assistance Data:

10.4.1.1. Number of clients provided one on one assistance with County procurement.

10.4.1.2. Number of sessions or hours of services provided

10.4.1.3. Types of services provided

10.4.1.4. Demographics of clients:

10.4.1.4.1. Business Location

10.4.1.4.2. Sector of business

10.4.1.4.3. If client had ever applied for a County contract

10.4.1.4.4. If client had ever been awarded a County Contract

10.4.1.4.5. Certifications held by business

10.4.1.4.6. Size of businesses, employee and estimated annual revenue.

10.4.2. Informal Purchasing Support Data

10.4.2.1. Number of County requests for non-contracting purchasing support

10.4.2.2. Number of Small-Local Businesses identified

10.4.2.3. Industry or service categories requested

10.4.2.4. Outcome data:

10.4.2.4.1. Number of clients assisted in enrolling in Buynet

10.4.2.4.2. Number of clients assisted in applying for a County contract

10.4.2.4.3. Number of clients awarded County contracts. The County shall provide a list of awarded contracts monthly to the contract for the contractor to determine this data point.

10.4.2.5. Client Impact data:

10.4.2.5.1. Client satisfaction

10.4.2.5.2. Changes in client knowledge, confidence and contract readiness

10.4.2.5.3. Success stories or cases studies, as requested

10.4.3. Marketing data will be agreed upon based on the marketing and outreach plan

10.4.4. Required workshop data shall be agreed upon based on the task order and will include at a minimum:

10.4.4.1. Registrant and Attendee numbers and demographics.

10.4.4.2. Attendee feedback

10.4.5. Event Data shall include but is not limited to

10.4.5.1. Registrant and Attendee numbers and demographics.

10.4.5.2. Attendee feedback

10.4.6. Contractor shall participate in evaluation activities as requested.

11. Invoicing

Mail all invoices to:

County of San Diego Attention: Pedro Cardenas 1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 152 San Diego, CA 92101

1. For additional work and support services, the department will provide a copy of the task order form and Statement of Work to the Contractor as services or materials are needed, prior to start of work in each work area, see Attachment 2 - Sample Task Order Form. Modifications to the Task Order may be made before services are approved to begin.

2. Contractor will provide requestor a quote or proposal based upon the task order request.

3. Requestor will submit the original task order form along with the Contractor’s quote or proposal, any additional pertinent information, and any required supplemental forms to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

4. In the event that the task order includes additional costs due to material or other ancillary items, pricing will be at a fair and reasonable cost, and subject to County review and approval before reimbursement.

5. COR will review documents to ensure the task requested is in compliance with contract scope, limits, DVBE requirements (if applicable), and includes all required supplemental forms.

6. If task requested complies with contract terms & conditions and scope, the COR will enter a release in Oracle for the work and provide notice to contractor to proceed with work.

HELPFUL REMINDERS WHEN ISSUING TASK ORDERS

• A task order form and statement of work are required for every request of contractor.

• Task orders are subject to audit by Purchasing & Contracting which may be conducted at any time during the duration of the contract.

EXHIBIT A - STATEMENT OF WORK, ATTACHMENT 2

SAMPLE TASK ORDER FORM

SERVICES TASK ORDER

CONTRACTOR:

PROGRAM:

REQUEST DATE: PROJECT NO.:

CONTRACT TERM: TASK ORDER NO.:

DIVISION REQUESTING: TASK ORDER LEAD:

NEW TASK ORDER AMENDED/EXTENDED TASK ORDER

If amending, summarize changes to existing task order:

Description of Scope of Services:

Standard Priority High Priority

Total Cost of Task Order : Fixed Price Estimated Price

Services:

Other services required to complete this project:

Contractor shall provide all services as may otherwise be noted above, and perform all services described in this Task Order. Contractor shall accept $ as full payment for the provision of these services.

CONTRACTOR

By: Date:

Printed Name & Title:

COR, Contracting Officer’s Representative

By: Date:

Printed Name & Title:

DISTRIBUTION: (Please provide copies of the final signed Task Order to those listed below)

Contractor Contracting Officer’s Representative

Fiscal Use Only:

Project: Org: Exp Type: Task: Award :

EXHIBIT A – STATEMENT OF WORK

F. PAYMENT SCHEDULE (EXHIBIT C)

Initial Term: October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 Category Unit of

Measure Unit Price

Estimated Qty

Extended Price

Deliverable:

Program Implementation Services (Project Plan for Marketing and Outreach, Resource Library

Maintenance and Updates, Data Reporting)

Lump Sum 1 $________

Deliverable: Program Administration Services (Per Month) Month 12 $

AS-NEEDED INIDIVIDUAL WORKSHOPS (via Task Orders)

Virtual Workshop Each $________ ______ $________ In-Person Workshop Each $________ ______ $________

Hybrid Workshop Each $________ ______ $________

Add any assumptions or proposed pricing. Room rental or materials are at cost. travel, etc reimbursements are not permissible.

County Option 1: October 1, 2027 – September 30, 2028

Measure Unit Price

Estimated Qty

Add any assumptions or proposed pricing. Room rental or materials are at cost. travel, etc reimbursements are not permissible.

County Option 2: October 1, 2028 – September 30, 2029

Measure Unit Price

Estimated Qty

Add any…