ATT D to ADT AMEND 4 - Master RIC and ADT Q As.pdf

ATTACHMENT D TO SBAHQ-10-R-0022 AMENDMENT 000004

RIC and ADT Questions and Responses

How to Find an Answer

All questions received prior to the submission deadline (7/23/10 at 5pm, Eastern Time) are organized by date and time (EDT) of submission. Due to the sheer volume of questions, if you are looking for an answer to a particular question, please search by date and time.

In addition, we have posted an extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) at www.sba.gov/clusters and www.fbo.gov. These questions may be very helpful, and could save you a lot of searching time. If you did not submit a specific question, we recommend looking at the FAQs first.

Finally, if you would like to listen to a recording, and view the PowerPoint, from either the ADT or RIC

Webinar, links are available at: www.sba.gov/clusters/sbaresources/index.html

Q and As

Wed 7/7/2010 4:40 PM

Q: What cluster does Aurora, IL fall into and who is/ who are the points of contact for the cluster?

A: There is no existing list of clusters. See the RFP for a description of an existing regional cluster. We‘re having a webinar for interested offerors this Thursday from 1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT.

For more information follow this link: http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html.

Thu 7/8/2010 1:21 PM

Q: We are a partner on an E-RIC submission which is pending. We are wondering if we can also be a partner on a RIC proposal. The FAQs say: ―Offerors may compete under only one program.‖ Does this mean only one RIC or either a RIC or ADT?

A: It applies only to RIC or ADT, so you can still apply. We‘re having a webinar July 15 for

RIC and another on Monday, July 19 for ADT. You can register for them here:

RIC 7/15: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g

ADT 7/19: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/mivxuld3kf8d http://www.sba.gov/clusters http://www.sba.gov/clusters/sbaresources/index.html http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g https://cc.readytalk.com/r/mivxuld3kf8d

Thu 7/8/2010 4:28 PM

Q: I am considering submitting a proposal for the RIC RFP and have a question regarding the term ―existing‖ clusters. I have in mind to lead an initiative for a regional innovation cluster for the food industry spanning six New England states. This multi-state cluster does not presently exist. Within at least two states (ME and VT) there are initiatives that have elements of cluster development-Vermont‘s Farm To Plate initiative, Maine‘s new food producers trade association represents the result of a cluster development award from Maine Technology Institute and so could be described as an emerging existing cluster but is presently simply a trade association. I have been speaking with a wide array of food industry stakeholders (farm support organizations, producer and distributor association, retail associations) all of whom are interested in having me lead a regional food cluster initiative that has all the elements sought by SBA. However, this regional initiative is very much a new, not existing cluster. Even Maine and Vermont‘s clusters might be better characterized as emerging rather than existing. Is it worth my while to explore submission or is this concept likely to get knocked out based on not being an ―existing‖ cluster?

I believe I can speak to every element of the RFP but for those questions related to ―Existing‖ clusters.

A: Any entity may submit an offer. However, all offers will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation.

Mon 7/12/2010 9:02 AM

Q: I am interested in participating in the July 15 Webinar; is the log in information posted?

Please let me know where I can find the info to join the webinar.

A: Information on the July 15 Webinar, as well as the link to register, can be found at:

http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html.

Mon 7/12/2010 9:02 AM

Q: I am interested in participating in the July 15 Webinar; is the log in information posted?

Please let me know where I can find the info to join the webinar.

A: Just wanted to follow up with you because there‘s a complication with the link sent yesterday. You can register for the webinar here: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g.

Mon 7/12/2010 9:49 AM http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html

Q: Couple questions regarding SBAHQ-10-R-0021 RFP: 1. Is there a formal RIC designation required to be eligible to bid? 2. Is there a bidders conference call for a synopsis and Q&A session?

A: No there is no formal designation. Offerors must demonstrate their cluster qualifications in the their proposals. The definitions for the RIC program are stated in the FAQ section of our cluster website: http://www.sba.gov/clusters/CLUSTERS_FAQS.html. Webinar information can be found at: http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html.

Mon 7/12/2010 10:25 AM

Q: Will there be a separate Solicitation for specifically the Defense industry cluster or will the solicitation released on July 8 be applicable to all regional clusters - the applicant to select the cluster most appropriate?

A: Yes, there is a separate Defense industry cluster Solicitation for Advanced Defense

Technologies (ADT). The link to the RFP can be found on our clusters website:

http://www.sba.gov/clusters/index.html.

Fri 7/12/2010 11:21 AM

Q: From the evaluation side, would it be more valuable for an application to cover a larger geographic area? Like the state vs. the Merrimack Valley?

A: The actual size of the cluster isn‘t of great concern. Rather, focus should be on diversity of stakeholders, integration of stakeholders, economic benefit to small businesses in the region, jobs created and other regional economic impact. We list out the full evaluation metrics in the RFP.

Also, we‘re having a webinar tomorrow for the RIC RFP, and again on Monday for the ADT

RFP. Interested offerors can register here:

Mon 7/12/2010 1:14 PM

Q: What is the anticipated award date for this grant opportunity? Also, does the contracted project period actually begin with the award date, or can you establish a start date shortly after the award date?

http://www.sba.gov/clusters/CLUSTERS_FAQS.html http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html http://www.sba.gov/clusters/index.html

A: This is a contract opportunity, not a grant opportunity. We're aiming to award in mid-

September, with a start date on or before September 30, 2010.

Mon 7/12/2010 4:24 PM

Q: Could you please provide us with more specific information regarding SBA funding for regional clusters? Do you have any examples of past cluster initiatives/projects that received funding from the SBA?

A: There is no existing list of clusters. This is a new initiative. Additional information, including links to RFPs, can be found at: http://www.sba.gov/clusters/index.html.

Mon 7/12/2010 7:24 PM

Q: We have more than one industry cluster in our region. If we apply to help more than one cluster with training and business assistance, will we be penalized in our application?

A: The same cluster organization should not submit more than one offer. Clusters in the same region with separate and distinct organizations and technology/industry focuses may submit separate offers.

Tue 7/13/2010 10:13 AM

Q: I would like to participate in the webinar on the 15th at 1pm est - can you please tell me how to register?

A: More information on the webinar, including information on how to register for it, can be found here: http://www.sba.gov/clusters/RICWEBINAR.html

Tue 7/13/2010 12:57 PM

Q: How do you find out where the clusters are and who to get in touch with?

A: There is no existing list of clusters. We‘re having a webinar for interested offerors on July 15 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT. For more information follow this link:

http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html. To register for the RIC webinar, follow this link: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g.

http://www.sba.gov/clusters/index.html http://www.sba.gov/clusters/RICWEBINAR.html http://www.sba.gov/clusters/ricwebinar/index.html

Tue 7/13/2010 4:20 PM

Q: In going to the Web site I just discovered about the July 15 th

Webinar to answer questions about this bid. I have a number of questions, and one specifically about who can submit bids for this solicitation #SBAHQ-10-R-0021.

Is there a recording of the Webinar? Or the questions asked and answered listed anywhere?

This would probably answer many of the same questions I have and would greatly appreciate any information you can offer.

My first question is about the bidders. Your solicitation document states that this solicitation is for existing regional innovation clusters. Is this a certified designation or by function we qualify as a regional innovation cluster. Or if this is a pre-requirement to submitting a proposal for this bid, what can we do to qualify? The County of Los Angeles owns and operates the Business

Technology Center (BTC) which works in partnership with all of Southern California

Universities and their Offices of Technology Transfer offices and Engineering schools and JPL

(Jet Propulsion Laboratory), investing organizations (the Pasadena Angels are headquartered at the BTC) many service organizations and the BTC has over 50 mentors and advisors to assist and work with the entrepreneurs and their companies that are resident at our 40K square foot facility and our Affiliate program.

A: There will be a full recording of the webinar available. Links will be available on the SBA

Clusters website: www.sba.gov/clusters. To determine whether you qualify as an existing regional innovation cluster, please consult the requirements in the RIC RFP which can also be found on the above link. The RFP lists required documents for establishing whether a cluster meets the criteria of an ―existing‖ cluster. Cluster FAQs may be found here:

http://www.sba.gov/clusters/CLUSTERS_FAQS.html

Tue 7/13/2010 6:05 PM

Q: Will the canceled webinar be rescheduled? If so, when?

A: The webinar is still on July 15 from 1 to 2pm EDT. We apologize for the confusion. Please use this link to register! https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g. We‘ll be answering questions during this session on a first come, first serve basis. Questions can be sent ahead of time and during the event to clusters@sba.gov.

Tue 7/13/2010 6:36 PM http://www.sba.gov/clusters/CLUSTERS_FAQS.html mailto:clusters@sba.gov

Q: Has this webinar been cancelled or is it just full? We are unable to register online.

A: The webinar is still on for tomorrow, July 15, from 1 to 2pm EDT. We apologize for the confusion. Please use this link to register! https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g. We‘ll be answering questions during this session on a first come, first serve basis. Questions can be sent ahead of time and during the event to clusters@sba.gov.

Tue 7/13/2010 6:37 PM

Q: As I read over the solicitation, it is apparent that SBA will only be accepting offers from existing Regional Innovation Clusters (RICs). Is that true? If so, where can I obtain a list of existing RICs so that we as a technology and accounting services company can partner with one of the existing RIC?

A: Any entity can submit an offer, but it will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria. There is no list of existing clusters. We are having a webinar July 15 from 1pm to 2pm for the RIC RFP. You may register by following this link:

https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g.

Tue 7/13/2010 6:41 PM

Q: When clicking on the link provided to register for the 7/15 RIC

Webinar, https://cc.readytalk.com/r/c2fr19ph3wfd, I am taken to a page that states only:

RIC Webinar has been cancelled. Please contact the conference organizer if you have any questions.

Since this webinar was just announced, I am confused as to why it has already been cancelled without changing the information on the SBA website. Is this because maximum capacity has already been reached? If not, would you please provide a link that works for registering for this webinar?

A: We were having a glitch. Please use this link to register!

https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g. We‘ll be answering questions during this session on a first come, first serve basis. Questions can be sent ahead of time and during the event to clusters@sba.gov.

Tue 7/13/2010 11:57 PM mailto:clusters@sba.gov https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g https://cc.readytalk.com/r/c2fr19ph3wfd

Q: Where are we able to find a list of existing Regional Clusters? If we have been performing the exact services with a catalyst of for profit and non-profit firms promoting economic development and job growth throughout the nation, are we able to form a Cluster? If so, does the cluster require its own Duns #, Tax ID and CCR registration?

A: There is no list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer. However, cluster qualification and experience are primary evaluation factors. Please refer to the RFP for required documentation from offerors. RFPs can be found at: http://www.sba.gov/clusters. The cluster lead is required to have all required documents.

Wed 7/14/2010 8:00 AM

Q: Based on your recent RFP Amendment 000001 for RFP SBAHQ-10-R-0021, I was hoping someone could tell me how we determine who the Cluster Lead Organizations are in our area.

We have offices based in the following locations: San Diego, California; Northern Virginia in the Metro DC area; and Texas.

A: There is no list of existing clusters or cluster leads. We are having a webinar tomorrow, July

15, from 1-2PM EDT for the RIC RFP, and again on Monday for the ADT RFP. Interested offerors can register here:

Wed 7/14/2010 8:18 AM

Q: I read your definition of regional innovation cluster, but wanted to better understand if there are any other considerations for defining the geographic region for the RIC based on population, size or footprint, or number of partners involved, etc.

A: There are no requirements beyond what is contained in the Solicitation for evaluating a cluster‘s qualifications.

Wed 7/14/2010 8:26 AM

Q: I just tried to register for the July 15 th

RIC RFP webinar and received a message that it has been cancelled. Do you have a new date for the call?

http://www.sba.gov/clusters

A: The meeting is definitely still on for tomorrow. We‘re trying to fix that message. In the meantime, you can use this link to register: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g

Wed 7/14/2010 10:55 AM

Q: Our medical school is a nonprofit organization and has led the development of a Bioscience

Cluster in our region with the aim of technology based economic development and diversification. We are interested in submitting a proposal to SBAHQ-10-0021 (Regional

Innovation Clusters). Would our academic institution qualify to submit a proposal to solicitation

SBAHQ-10-R-0021?

A: Any entity may submit an offer. Please consult the required documentation section of the

RFP to determine your eligibility. RFPs can be found at: www.sba.gov/clusters.

Wed 7/14/2010 10:58 AM

Q: Will you be doing a webinar for the Advanced Defense Technologies Initiative as well? Is that scheduled? Or will the RIC telecon deal with most of the issues?

A: The ADT webinar will take place on July 19 at 1 PM EST. The link for the ADT webinar is:

https://cc.readytalk.com/r/mivxuld3kf8d.

Wed 7/14/2010 11:50 AM

Q: What is the definition of an ―established regional cluster‖? Can you give some concrete or illustrative examples? Many economic development organizations support clusters initiatives, but organizations with specific mission statements will be fewer in number. It would also be helpful to hold a webinar to answer questions.

A: Please see the RFP for required documentation for evaluating whether a cluster is ―existing.‖

RFPs can be found at: www.sba.gov/clusters. There is no list of existing clusters. Each offeror, or team of offerors, should determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria. We are having a webinar July 15 from 1-2PM EDT for RIC. Please follow this link to register:

Wed 7/14/2010 11:58 AM http://www.sba.gov/clusters https://cc.readytalk.com/r/mivxuld3kf8d

Q: I clicked on the link to take me to registration for the ADT WebinAir which took me to a notice that it had been cancelled. Can you confirm?

A: The ADT webinar is still on for Monday, July 19, from 1 to 2pm EDT. We apologize for the confusion. Please use this link to register! https://cc.readytalk.com/r/mivxuld3kf8d. We‘ll be answering questions during this session on a first come, first serve basis. Questions can be sent ahead of time and during the event to clusters@sba.gov.

Wed 7/14/2010 12:02 PM

Q: The link to the subject Webinar indicates it has been cancelled. Will it be rescheduled?

A: The RIC webinar is still on for July 15 from 1 to 2pm EDT. We apologize for the confusion.

Please use this link to register! https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g. We‘ll be answering questions during this session on a first come, first serve basis. Questions can be sent ahead of time and during the event to clusters@sba.gov.

Wed 7/14/2010 1:34 PM

Q: If we are not an existing RIC, how do we become one? Can we get a list of existing RIC?

A: Please see the required documents list to determine how to organize as a cluster. This can be found at www.sba.gov/clusters. There is no list of existing clusters.

Wed 7/14/2010 1:46 PM

Q: May the RIC dollars be used as seed money (i.e. in a grant or loan program)?

A: No. The Solicitation is to provide services such as those identified in the Solicitation to small business concerns associated with the cluster. RIC dollars may not be used as ―seed money‖ (i.e. a grant or loan program).

Wed 7/14/2010 1:49 PM

Q: If there will be no subcontractors involved, the pricing will be less than $550,000, and the offeror is not for profit, does the small business subcontractor program apply?

https://cc.readytalk.com/r/mivxuld3kf8d mailto:clusters@sba.gov https://cc.readytalk.com/r/8ah8uox6x99g

A: If the total price, including option years, is less than $550,000, then a small business subcontracting plan is not required. In addition, if you have no plans to subcontract any services, no subcontracting plan is required. FAR § 19.702(a)(1).

Q: What are the ORCA certifications?

A: Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 4.1201 Policy

(a) Prospective contractors shall complete electronic annual representations and certifications at http://orca.bpn.gov in conjunction with required registration in the Central Contractor

Registration (CCR) database (see FAR 4.1102).

(b)(1) Prospective contractors shall update the representations and certifications submitted to

ORCA as necessary, but at least annually, to ensure they are kept current, accurate, and complete. The representations and certifications are effective until one year from date of submission or update to ORCA.

(2) When any of the conditions in paragraph (b) of the clause at 52.219-28, Post-Award

Small Business Program Rerepresentation, apply, contractors that represented they were small businesses prior to award of a contract must update the representations and certifications in

ORCA as directed by the clause. Contractors that represented they were other than small businesses prior to award of a contract may update the representations and certifications in

ORCA as directed by the clause, if their size status has changed since contract award.

(c) Data in ORCA is archived and is electronically retrievable. Therefore, when a prospective contractor has completed representations and certifications electronically via ORCA, the contracting officer must reference the date of ORCA verification in the contract file, or include a paper copy of the electronically-submitted representations and certifications in the file. Either of these actions satisfies contract file documentation requirements of 4.803(a)(11). However, if an offeror identifies changes to ORCA data pursuant to the FAR provisions at 52.204-8(d) or

52.212-3(b), the contracting officer must include a copy of the changes in the contract file.

Q: When is the anticipated timeline? When will contract be awarded and when is it expected to begin?

A: Proposals are due August 16, 2010. Award will be made before September 30, 2010.

Wed 7/14/2010 3:22 PM

Q: How much detail is needed for the Small Business Subcontracting Plan? My firm is a small business, and we will be a subcontractor for a non-profit prime. Would that arrangement satisfy the requirement?

http://orca.bpn.gov/ https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/Subpart%204_11.html#wp1073577 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_217_221.html#wp1139913 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/Subpart%204_8.html#wp1108979 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html#wp1140074 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_212_213.html#wp1179194

A: Please see Federal Acquisition Regulation § 19.704 and FAR clause 52.219-9 (which is referenced in the Solicitation) for further information on small business subcontracting plans.

Wed 7/14/2010 5:55 PM

Q: I had just a few questions regarding your solicitation SBAHQ-10-R-0021 RFP.

Our economic development corporation (EDC) has defined a technology cluster that we support with programs such as the Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) which combines the resources of universities, local businesses, and financing opportunities to support entrepreneurs. We have been working to expand the KIZ program to a larger area and offering more tech transfer grants to start ups, more internships with technology companies, and greater support from the local colleges and universities. We have forged many regional alliances in support of this expansion and are working hard to ensure success.

Though no tech transfers have been made under our expanded region, our KIZ has been in place for over six years and our EDC much longer than that. Furthermore, we are recognized as a key leader in this entrepreneurial space and continue to develop programs to support innovation and talent in our region. Do we qualify under your terms as a qualified offeror, though our impact region will expand?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation.

Q: Secondly, is "technology" a qualified cluster and should we provide NAICS codes of what

"technology" means? Or is a cluster defined by the SBA?

A: Your offer should describe the focus of your established cluster.

Q: Lastly, our EDC has produced a strategic plan, but it is not developed around a single industry. Within the plan, we recognize the need to boost innovation and talent in our region, but do not specify an industry. Does the grant ask us to develop a strategic plan around one industry or must we have one in place currently centered around one industry or product?

criteria in the Solicitation. However, without a focus on a specific technology, industry or product, your offer is may not receive a positive evaluation.

Wed 7/14/2010 7:24 PM

Q: What are allowable activities under this grant?

A: This is a solicitation for offers to award contractor to entities to provide services to small business concerns involved in the cluster. A contractor will be subject to the applicable cost principles and procedures in FAR Part 31.

Q: Do they include assisting businesses with permitting, site selection & planning, feasibility, access to capital?

A: Yes, if you are providing counseling and guidance to small business concerns.

Q: How narrow do definitions of industry cluster need to be. Would agriculture, covering both aquaculture and dairy for example, be acceptable? Or would these be separate industry clusters?

And, if so, could we apply to support multiple declared industry clusters?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an established focus.

Thu 7/15/2010 9:27 AM

Q: The criteria of Offeror is defined on page 4, Section C.1.2, part A as ―an established regional cluster or the lead entity (or team) of an established cluster . . .‘ Since we are applying as team can we assume we can name one entity as the ―Offeror,‖ designated by the key cluster partners and stakeholders, but identify a different key cluster partner as fiduciary of the award? Please explain the difference between an ―Offeror‖ and a ―contractor?‖ Is the Offeror the entity that applies for the grant, but the contractor the entity to whom the award is made and would thereby manage the award?

A: The offeror is the entity that will be responsible for performing the contract. An offeror can be a single entity or a joint venture of several entities. The offeror becomes the contractor if

SBA awards the offeror a contract. This is not a grant.

Thu 7/15/2010 10:11 AM

Q: Regarding section C.1.2, What are the requirements for an ―established regional cluster‖?

What documentation will you need?

A: Documentation is listed in the Clause L.7 of the Solicitation.

Q: Are there any minimum requirements on how long the organization and structure should have been in place?

A: No but offers will be comparatively evaluated. Offerors with more experience may receive a better evaluation.

Thu 7/15/2010 10:25 AM

Q: May an applicant applying for an RIC grant submit more than one application for this particular grant?

A: This is a Solicitation for a contract and you may submit only one offer.

Thu 7/15/2010 10:27 AM

Q: I registered for the RIC Webinar, will you please send access information. Thank you.

A: Webinar information is available at www.sba.gov/clusters

Thu 7/15/2010 10:29 AM

Q: Is this a one year grant with the ability to carryover for an additional 12 month period, or is this a one year grant with an option for a second year of funding? If it‘s the latter, do we need to submit a two year budget?

A: This is a Solicitation to award a contract for a base one-year term, and the government has an option for an additional year of services. You will need to provide pricing for both years.

Q: According to C.1.2.A.1, an SBDC would not be eligible to apply for this grant because it is not an established regional cluster. Is this correct? How would an SBDC ―bind the cluster to deliver‖ the offered services? L.9 also appears to preclude SBDCs – because they are not ―an existing, experienced regional cluster‖.

Q: C.1.2.A.1 definition of a cluster sounds like only trade associations are available to apply – is this correct?

Q: Who has to develop a regional strategic plan – the trade association or some other entity such as government?

A: If you are not an established existing cluster with an existing strategic plan, you are unlikely to receive a positive evaluation under the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation.

Q: If a university applies, do they need to provide the documentation listed in C.1.2.B on page 5

(articles of incorporation, by-laws, operating guidelines, etc.)?

A: If it exists, along with any other information to establish the qualifications of the cluster.

Q: Is this a fixed price contract for educational institutions?

A: It is a fixed price contract, and it is open to offers from any entity.

Q: What budget format is to be used for the proposal?

A: A contractor will be subject to the applicable cost principles and procedures in FAR Part 31.

Q: C.5.2 – is it a requirement to have a minimum of 2 and maximum of 3 project associates?

Can additional staff work on this project? How much detail is required on project staffing?

Organization chart, position descriptions, resumes? Can subcontracts be issued to other organizations to carry out the work?

A: The staff outlined in the Solicitation are minimum requirements. Additional staff and subcontractors are permissible. An offeror should include any information it deems important for purposes of describing the services that the offeror is offering to provide over the base term and the option period.

Q: What is the anticipated date of award?

A: Prior to September 30, 2010.

Q: Can an offeror be part of multiple proposals, and/or submit multiple proposals?

A: An offeror may only submit one offer. See Clause L.4 of the Solicitation.

Q: L.7, for SBDCs housed at universities, what information should be submitted for the

Required Documents? Should these be for the university which is the contractor, or for the

SBDC?

A: An offeor should submit any information that it deems pertinent to establish the qualifications of the cluster. See Clause L.7 of the Solicitation.

Q: L.9.D – why does there need to be existing partnerships? Shouldn‘t a purpose of this project be to establish and/or strengthen these partnerships?

A: SBA intends to award contracts to established regional clusters.

Q: Why can‘t travel costs be part of the project? Travel to outreach to companies in the cluster region will be critical to the success of this project.

Please provide more information on the details required in the financial reports.

A: SBA has amended the Solicitation to allow travel. See Amendment 4, Clause G.4.

Q: The notice says there has to be a Project Manager, but yet the Project Manager cannot be charged to the grant. Why? If the Project Manager is going to be responsible for oversight of this project then their time related to that oversight should be a legitimate cost.

A: SBA has amended clause C.5 (Amendment 4) and removed the project manager prohibition and the requirement for designated project associates.

Thu 7/15/2010 10:35 AM

Q: I have a manufacturing client that is partnering with other manufacturers to make an alternative energy product. Would this potentially fit either the RIC or ADT cluster scenario?

Thu 7/15/2010 10:53 AM

Q: How do you define a region?

A: SBA did not define it. If you are an established cluster, it should already be defined.

Thu 7/15/2010 11:25 AM

Q: Do you have a specific date by which the award recipients will be announced?

A: SBA intends to award contracts by September 30, 2010.

Thu 7/15/2010 11:38 AM

Q: I registered for the Interested Vendors List yesterday and do not see us listed.

A: Contact the FBO Helpdesk.

Thu 7/15/2010 11:56 AM

Q: Would preference be given to proposals that address multiple clusters or a single cluster?

A: We are seeking offers in connection with a specific established cluster with a specific focus.

Q: Would preference be given a University lead or a non-profit?

A: No preference. Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:09 PM

Q: Assuming that the cluster is addressing a unique competitive strength of the region, can a cluster proposal be limited to one particular industry sector or sub-sector (e.g. renewable energy project development)? Are proposals that address a wide range of small businesses/industries preferred?

A: SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an established focus.

Q: To what extent must a cluster proposal be focused on commercializing patentable intellectual property derived from R & D performed in the region vs. addressing opportunities to exploit non-patentable know-how that is identified as a competitive strength within the region? Will proposals that do not address commercialization of R & D within research labs in the region be disadvantaged?

A: Offers will be evaluated in accordance with the criteria in the Solicitation.

Q: How many awards will SBA be making? Does SBA intend to ensure regional diversity in making awards (i.e. multiple awards within a single region unlikely)?

A: SBA anticipates that it will award between 10-15 contracts, and may award more or less depending on the offers received. Regional diversity is not a factor.

Q: Can the cluster region be multi-state? Does it have to be multi-state? How small of a cluster region would be viewed acceptable?

A: A cluster can be multi-state, it does not have ot be multi-state, and there is no limit on the size. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an established focus.

Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation

Q: Please explain the requirement to include a ―Regional strategic plan‖ in the proposal? Must the strategic plan be inclusive of the entire cluster region of interest or can it be focused on a sub-set of the region with appropriate extrapolations to the entire cluster geography?

If the cluster does not already have an established strategic plan, it should provide any other documentation it deems appropriate to establish its qualifications.

Q: Is there any cost share (matching fund) requirement from Offeror? To what extent will there be a preference for funding proposals that address economically distressed states or communities?

A: No requirement for matching funds as this is Solicitation to award a contract, not a grant.

Clause L.8.D contains an evaluation sub factor concerning underserved markets:

Commitment to Underserved Markets

The degree to which the applicant demonstrates a commitment to the inclusion of Underserved

Markets, Underrepresented Groups and historically excluded geographic areas.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:23 PM

Q: Has this RFP been previously released? If so, who and where were the recipients located?

Can a non-profit apply for this grant opportunity?

A: This is a new initiative to award contracts for services to be provided to small business concerns involved in the cluster. Any entity may submit an offer.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:25 PM

Q: Our existing "cluster" is not in a specific industry category, but rather composed of companies from across many categories (Manufacturing, Service, IT, etc) in the region. They work together on an ongoing basis to explore "Sustainability" as a market and opportunity, and their work has lead to everything from dissemination of best "sustainability practices" for regional business to "expansion of new sustainability product lines" at existing companies, to the launching of several brand new companies manufacturing or supporting new "sustainability products". Would this qualify as an industry cluster?

Thu 7/15/2010 12:35 AM

Q: Can a state agency be the applicant institution such as an office of Economic Development that supports clusters?

A: Any entity may submit an offer.

Q: Can a business entity that supports a business cluster be included in more than one application?

A: Clause L.4 of the Solicitation provides:

An entity may not submit more than one offer to be a prime contractor (including as a participant in a joint venture) under this Solicitation. An entity that submits an offer to be a prime contractor (including as a participant in a joint venture) under this Solicitation may not submit an offer under the ADT Solicitation. An entity may submit an offer as a prime contractor on one proposal, and participate as a subcontractor on other proposals. An entity may participate as a subcontractor on more than one proposal in response to this Solicitation, and may participate as a subcontractor under both the RIC Solicitation and the ADT Solicitation. In addition, an entity may be listed as a cluster participant in multiple proposals in response to this Solicitation.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:46 PM

Q: We are a small business incubator located in Illinois. Our focus is green technologies. How do we go about identifying the entities that are leading existing regional cluster projects in our area so that we might partner with them? Could the leaders of local government (i.e. mayor) or their representatives put in a proposal as an offeror?

A: SBA does not have a list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an established focus.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:47 PM

Q: I appreciate your time in answering the following questions:

We are just standing up a cluster and doubt that all of the requested documentation will be in place prior to the proposal deadline. What documentation is most pertinent for acknowledgement of a viable cluster?

A: Offers will be comparatively evaluated. Offerors with more experience may receive a better evaluation.

Q: Follow-on to question 1. Will not having an existing cluster eliminate our consideration for this effort?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an

Q: Our team is considering assisting two clusters for better economies of scale. Is being selected for supporting two clusters a viable consideration?

A: No. See Amendment 3 to the Solicitations, Clause L.4.

Q: We are not a small business based on your NAICS 541611 code, mall business. Does this preclude us from participating?

A: No. Any entity may submit an offer. All Solicitations must have size standard, including those that are full an open, for statistical and other reasons, such as subcontracting plan requirements.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:47 PM

Q: With this being a fixed price contract, what will be the installment schedule for payments?

A: Contractors will submit invoices for delivered services every month. See Clause G.3.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:53 PM

Q: Can you please tell us when the anticipated award date is, and when the project should being?

A: SBA anticipates awards by September 30, 2010 and performance beginning immediately thereafter.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:53 PM

Q: We would like to concentrate on renewable/sustainable/alternative energy companies in central Pennsylvania as our cluster. Is that too general a cluster definition for this solicitation?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an

Thu 7/15/2010 12:56 PM

Q: For the Principals Biography, who is considered the Principals?

A: That is a determination that you must make in your effort to demonstrate the qualifications of your cluster.

Thu 7/15/2010 12:56 PM

Q: Our involvement in helping grow companies has always included direct investment in the company (usually as a convertible debt). Is such direct investment in an industry cluster an allowable use of funds for this solicitation?

A: No. SBA intends to award a contract for services to be provided to small business concerns associated with the cluster.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:00 PM

Q: For the list of Cluster Partners and stakeholders, board of directors, etc., do you want just their names or no you want addresses, phone numbers, companies and agencies they represent, etc?

A: You should submit any information that you believe demonstrates the qualifications of your cluster.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:01 PM

Q: Is there preference given to a 501(c)(3) organization or a university?

A: No preference.

Q: Is it preferable to focus a proposal on one industry cluster (i.e. clean energy) or a group of industry clusters (i.e. water technology, clean energy, agricultural technology, etc.)?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an

Thu 7/15/2010 1:02 PM

Q: How many contracts are you anticipating will be awarded?

A: SBA anticipates that it will award between 10-15 contracts combined under both the RIC and

ADT Solicitations, and may award more or less depending on the offers received.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:03 PM

Q: Will this webinar be available for viewing at a later date? If so, when?

A: It is available now on www.sba.gov/clusters

Q: The RFP states that proposals should come from "existing" regional clusters. Can regional economic development organizations representing multiple counties/municipalities or existing business conglomerates apply? Or must they already have "official" designation as a regional cluster?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an established focus. There is no official designation as a cluster.

Q: The Technical Proposal section requires an Experience section (5 pages) and Past

Performance section (2 pages). Is this information only required for the Lead Organization

(Offeror) or is it also required for partners who may subcontract part of the work?

A: The Solicitation specifically requires information on subcontractor past performance (Clause

L.10) and offerors should submit information on cluster participants, including subcontractors, in accordance with the Experience evaluation factor (Clause L.9).

Thu 7/15/2010 1:04 PM

Q: Can you please provide an example(s) of ―existing clusters.‖ The RFP material I have read thus far is not clear on the term.

A: SBA does not have a list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer which will be

Thu 7/15/2010 1:06 PM

Q: How many awards will be made and what is their geographic distribution?

A: SBA anticipates that it will award between 10-15 contracts combined under the RIC and

ADT Solicitations, and may award more or less depending on the offers received. There are no geographic limits or quotas on award distribution.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:07 PM

Q: If a offer submits their proposal early will there be early awards?

A: No. All offers will be comparatively evaluated, and award will be made to the offerors that represent the best value to the Government, in accordance with Section M of the Solicitation.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:08 PM

Q: How specific does the industry for the cluster have to be? Would a more general

"sustainability" cluster with businesses focused on energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy development, etc be acceptable?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an

Thu 7/15/2010 1:11 PM

Q: How do we obtain a copy of the RFP?

A: www.fbo.gov or www.sba.gov/clusters

Thu 7/15/2010 1:12 PM

Q: Will the webinar slides be available?

A: It is available at www.sba.gov/clusters

Thu 7/15/2010 1:12 PM

Q: Can you send out the slide deck or make it available?

Thu 7/15/2010 1:15 PM

Q: Where can we download a copy of the PowerPoint presentation?

Thu 7/15/2010 1:15 PM

Q: For purposes of the Regional Innovation Clusters grant, how does the SBA define ―small businesses‖? Thank you.

A: This is a contract, not a grant. The size standard for this Solicitation is $7 million. However, any size entity may submit an offer. For purposes of the small businesses that will receive the services from the contractor, the firms should be small under the size standard for the relevant industry that is the focus of the cluster. For example, the size standard for many manufacturing industries is 500 employees.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:17 PM

Q: Will SBA be posting the slides shortly?

Thu 7/15/2010 1:17 PM

Q: What can funding for Regional Clusters be used for?

- Specific projects only?

- General operating costs of cluster? Including a salary for an business incubator staff member, as an example?

A: This is a Solicitation to receive fixed-price offers to provide services to small business concerns associated with the cluster. Offerors should outline in their technical approach and cost proposal how costs will be allocated. Offerors are subject to the applicable cost principles and procedures in Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 31.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:18 PM

Q: Can you please tell me what is a small business? Number of employees? Amount of annual sales?

A: The size standard to be considered small for this Solicitation is $7 million. However, any size entity may submit an offer. For purposes of the small businesses that will receive the services from the contractor, the firms should be small under the size standard for the relevant industry that is the focus of the cluster. For example, the size standard for many manufacturing industries is 500 employees.

Q: Will the PowerPoint be available online after the webinar?

Q: Will we receive the link to the recording of today's webinar?

Q: The presentation slides will be made available afterwards correct? Thanks.

Q: will you make the slides available to us, please?

Thu 7/15/2010 1:19 PM

Q: Will you fund more than one cluster group per state/region?

A: There is no geographic limit or quota.

Q: Can you apply for and possibly be funded for both the RIC and ADT?

A: No. See Amendment 3 to the Solicitations, Clause L.4.

Q: Please provide a list of existing recognized regional clusters with contact information.

A: SBA does not have a list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer which will be

Q: Will the slides be available after the meeting?

Q: Is there a list that exists on where these existing regional innovation clusters are? Does an existing regional innovation cluster must be geographically bound? Is SBA open to the idea of working with virtual clusters i.e. a clusters that is not bound by geographic limits and the firms can be located anywhere. We have been dealing with the issue of creating new jobs and sustaining existing jobs in rural regions in Kansas and we firmly believe the concept of traditionally defined traded clusters don‘t work in rural regions. Does SBA define a cluster solely based on the product or technology? Will a process, temperament or needs based cluster definition considered an innovative cluster by SBA as a way to define rural clusters?

A: SBA does not have a list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer which will be

Thu 7/15/2010 1:20 PM

Q: What tax status is required? Non-profit? 501c3? 501c6? For profit?

A: Any entity may submit an offer.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:21 PM

Q: Whose regional plan? Is this an SBA document we can acquire, or the economic development regional council‘s SEDS? Or can this be our cluster‘s regional plan?

A: SBA is seeking documentation which demonstrates the qualifications of an existing regional

Thu 7/15/2010 1:22 PM

Q: Via the Cluster qualifications, can you better define - has the "authority" to bind the cluster...

as well as how you define or how we can qualify to define ourselves as an "established" cluster?

In other words, is that up to us to decide?

A: The offeror will be responsible for providing the offered services at the offered prices.

Q: Do 501 © (6) organizations qualify for this grant? Is there a match for this grant?

A: This is a solicitation for offers to perform a contract, not a grant. Any size entity may submit an offer. There is no match.

Q: If our organization is the lead offeror on a regional cluster proposal, can we be a co-applicant, but not lead organization, on the defense proposal?

A: An entity may not be a prime contractor under both Solicitations. See Amendment 3 to the

Solicitations, Clause L.4.

Q: Will the slides be available after the call?

Q: Is this a reimbursement grant? – Monthly/quarterly?

A: Contractors will submit invoices for delivered services every month. See Clause G.3.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:23 PM

Q: Please explain how does a business entity become a RIC. Why is the list of existing RIC not made available?

A: SBA does not have a list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer which will be

Q: How is an underserved market defined? Is that considered to be mostly urban areas? Would

Appalachia qualify?

A: We do not have a definition. Offerors should provide a rationale and/or supporting data for why they consider an area to be underserved.

Q: Can a Cluster which is set up on a national level (based on a specific technology) be sub-divided into a Regional Cluster (by geographic area) and be considered qualified to submit a proposal?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an

Thu 7/15/2010 1:24 PM

Q: Would it be possible to get a copy of the slides from the presentation from 7/15 electronically?

Q: Will we receive this ppt??

Q: If we have provided the same services identified here; but have been supporting women owned small businesses nationally, can we be identified as an existing clusters.

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an

Thu 7/15/2010 1:25 PM

Q: How many pages should a proposal be?

A: That information is in Section L of the Solicitation.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:25 PM

Q: I'm going to need help properly preparing the application to make certain I meet all federal guidelines. Are there consultants you can recommend?

A: No we cannot make recommendations.

Thu 7/15/2010 1:27 PM

Q: My questions are as follows:

1. How does an organization become a cluster lead or a member of a cluster?

2. How do we determine which organizations are already established regional clusters?

3. Is a copy of the presentation available in PowerPoint format for down-load from the SBA web site?

A: SBA does not have a list of existing clusters. Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. SBA is seeking to contract with existing clusters that already have an established focus. The slides are available at www.sba.gov/clusters

Q: Will The Small Business Development Centers be able to bid on the RFP?

A: Any entity may submit an offer which will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the Solicitation. However, prior to offer Small Business Development Centers must receive permission from the Associate Administrator of the small business development center program. 15 U.S.C. § 648(a)(5)(B)

Q: What if you are a regional economic development organization that represents 6 clusters for a large region, should we only submit one or can we submit all 6?

A: See Amendment 3 to the Solicitations, Clause L.4.

Q: If you bid on the RIC, can you partner with another group in the region who will bid on the

ADT?

A: See Amendment 3 to the Solicitations, Clause L.4.

Q: Is there any waiver for an RFP for both?

A: No.

Q: Is local financial match required for RIC or ADT awards?

A: No. This is a Solicitation to award a contract, not a grant.

Q: I'm part of the Chamber of Commerce which has less than 500 employees and seems to qualify as a…