Supplier Diversity Plan Clarification~3.docx

This is a Supplier Diversity Plan (SDP) Requirement Clarification document issued by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) for the RFR Grant Management System procurement (BD-27-1100-EED01-EED01-131710). All bidders must complete and submit an SDP Plan Form and commit a minimum of 1% of contract sales to one or more eligible SDP Partners. This commitment may be satisfied through subcontracting or ancillary business purchases and services, such as printing, translation, marketing, office supplies, IT services, software licensing, or professional services. The proposed SDP Partner does not need to be directly involved in the grant management system work and is not required to submit separate documentation with the bid. Bidders should identify at least one proposed SDP Partner on the form. Quote submissions are due August 21, 2026 at 7:30 PM EST, with oral presentations to follow at a date to be determined. The initial contract term runs from execution through June 30, 2027, with four one-year renewal options available through June 30, 2031. Project kickoff is scheduled for August 20, 2026, with substantial completion on January 8, 2027, and public launch on January 22, 2027.

The SDP requirement applies to all bidders regardless of their own supplier diversity certification status. Eligible partners can be identified through the SDO Directory of Certified Businesses. The proposed SDP Partner may be changed or supplemented during the contract performance period, provided the Contractor continues to meet the 1% commitment. SDP submissions will be allocated at least 25% of total evaluation points, making supplier diversity a significant factor in the award decision. Questions regarding the procurement are due August 5, 2026, and bid amendments are due August 14, 2026. All submissions must be made electronically through COMMBUYS only, with no calls or emails permitted.