LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (LDP) SERVICES QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.pdf

SOLICITATION NO. W912EQ24Q0014

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (LDP) SERVICES QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

The Leadership Development Program appears to be an existing program. Will the Government provide access to the current training materials?

Per the performance work statement in the solicitation, the contractor shall development and provide the coursework for the program.

Is the Government expecting a completely new training program or relevant updates to its current program?

The Government expects the contractor to provide a quote that includes a curriculum for the Government to evaluate.

Is there an incumbent? If so, would you be able to provide the contract information?

Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

Can you confirm the deadline for submitting quotes? Feb 9, 2024 at 10:00 CST.

Are there any specific formatting or submission requirements for the quote? Yes. See Performance Work Statement starting on page 7, and 52.212-2 starting at the bottom of page 31 of the solicitation.

Is there a page limit for the response? No.

Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the of members/students in the LDP-1 program?

Currently, we are in the process of selecting the students for the program, but there should be no more than 15 members per class.

We accommodation be provided by the government for the 3 coaching sessions face to face?

If accommodations are needed, please provide information in the quote.

Can the coaching be done during regular business hours onsite?

Yes, this is preferred.

Are there any specific deliverables or milestones outlined in the scope?

Yes, see page 10 in the solicitation.

How is the pricing structured for the products/services in the quote?

Pricing will be structured based on the selectee’s quote.

Are there any additional fees or costs that need to be considered? Include all cost for your company to provide the services in the quote.

Is the pricing inclusive of travel/per diem of the speakers or facilitators? If travel / per diem will be needed, please provide in the breakdown of the quote.

What are the proposed payment terms for this contract? Within 30 days after invoice is submitted.

Are there any milestones or conditions tied to payment? The services must be provided before an invoice for payment is submitted.

What is the proposed timeline for completing the work or delivering the products? See Performance Work Statement, starting on page 6 of the solicitation.

Are there any potential challenges or constraints that may affect the timeline?

Not currently.

I read that you would like our Tax ID upfront. Is it possible to provide that once you select partners to minimize security breaches?

Yes, you may hold on to the Tax ID and provide if selected.

Is this a new requirement or contract renewal? If a re-compete, what is the current contract number, and who is the incumbent?

This a new recurring requirement. Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc.

What is the total number of participants per program?

15 participants.

There is a request for certificates of insurance. Is it the expectation that these are submitted with the application or at the time of the award?

Please submit with quote.

Does the contractor have the option to utilize privately owned meeting/educational facilities to host the 9 interactive training sessions?

Sessions should be held at the district’s office building.

For any team building activities that require the cohort to meet outside of the normal location where the training sessions will be held; is the contractor responsible for coordinating and funding transportation? All sessions should be held during normal business hours. If the contractor anticipates any travel expenses, please include a breakdown of the expenses in the quote.

When will the contractor be provided with a list of the mentors assigned to the LDP1 participants by the COR?

A list of participants can be provided to the contractor after selection.

Will the contractor be able to coordinate and communicate with the mentors assigned by the COR to provide relevant updates/insights relating to the participants progress in the LDP1 program? If yes, when will the contractor receive the contact information of each mentor?

This can be discussed after selection.

How soon in advance of the initial training session will the contractor receive a list with contact information of the participants' superiors, subordinates and peers to facilitate the 360 degree assessment? Likewise, how soon in advance of the initial training session will the contractor be able to deliver the self-assessment portion of the 360 degree assessment to the LDP1 program participant?

This can be discussed after selection.

Are there any minimum technical requirements for an online training software platform used by the contractor to house electronic training resources and lessons that will be accessed by LDP1 participants between the interactive in person training sessions?

See Performance Work Statement for details, which starts on page 6 of the solicitation.

What is the standard budget for the LDP1 program? Either the most recently held cohort or an average across the country?

A budget has not been provided for this requirement.

No name necessary, but I would like to know the value of the contract, how proceeds were distributed, what kind of facility price was exercised, and where was the meeting held? Also it is important that I understand the overall funding, and what is expected, how and when compensation will take place, and the amount of compensation so that we can value the structure of this contract without causing financial complications to our company.

Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc. The sessions are all expected to be held at the district office building. Please develop a quote based on the Performance Work Statement that starts on page 6 of the solicitation, and Evaluation criteria on page 30.

Will there be one (1) single cohort of students per year? There will be a different class each year.

How many total students/participants are expected to enroll in the LDP?

No more than 15 participants.

What is the total estimated number of participants per year?

15 participants.

What is the estimated number of participants per class? Per cohort?

15 participants.

Could you please provide any information on how many participants & classes per month (estimate).

No more than 15 participants each year.

Preferred method of Leadership Books (e-book, hard-copy, or reference only?)

Please include in the quote a price for the e-book and price for hard copy.

Where are the leadership participants located?

Memphis, Tennessee.

How many leadership participants will participate in the program each year?

15 participants per year.

Will a projector or any audio/visual equipment be provided?

There should be audio / visual equipment provided. Please annotate equipment needs in the quote.

What is the size of the paper certificate for graduation?

May be discussed if selected.

How many certificates will be awarded for the leadership sessions each year?

One for each participant.

Is there a page limit for the proposal?

No. However, this is an one-page narrative requirement for Technical Capability. See FAR 52.212- 2, starting on page 31 of the solicitation.

Is there a preferred font size for the proposal?

No. However, quote font must be legible.

Shall past performance surveys be submitted by each vendor with the proposal in the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) portal?

Yes.

Can you tell me if all workshops and training sessions are to be delivered in person at the "government owned or educational facilities, such as MVM Federal Building, city owned properties, local college/universities/learning campuses" (page 8) or is there opportunity to deliver some highly interactive sessions virtually?

All sessions are to be provided in person.

We are an experienced, certified male owned Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB); can we apply for this contract? What is the location (address, floor, room number) where you would like this training to be held? When can we conduct a site visit to see this area to properly prepare our quote?

We are not offering a site visit and your company is ineligible for award because it is not a WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business).

How many participants are estimated per monthly training? This will be needed for the pricing of coaching sessions.

15 Participants.

With solicitation proposals due on Feb 9th and 360 assessments needed before the first training, is March still the target goal for the first training session? What is your process for getting the 360 assessments to the vendor?

A solicitation amendment should post in SAM.gov today or tomorrow to provide accurate program schedules for the base year and option year(s).

The solicitation calls out the need for 9 training sessions but based on the sample Base Year Program Schedule, there are 14 total days worth of content outlined. If we skipped Feb due to the timing of the proposal the Based Year Schedule would still shows 11 days of content because the midpoint workshop has 3 days listed. What is accurate so that we can provide accurate pricing?

A solicitation amendment should post in SAM.gov today or tomorrow to provide accurate program schedules for the base year and option year(s).

What is the expectation for the number of participants in each LDP class?

No more than 15 Participants.

How many LDP classes are there per year? The SOW states "The Contractor is expected to provide the first session in March for each LDP Class." This implies there is more than one class.

One LDP Class with several sessions throughout the calendar year.

How long are training sessions expected to be?

Is one day equivalent to 8 hours? Sessions are usually one to three days long. Yes, one day is equivalent to eight (8) hours.

What are the expectations for workshops and how do they differ from training sessions?

Workshops are typically designed to lay out expectations and evaluate the student. Workshops are provided at the beginning, middle, and end of year to review the program, discuss participants progress, and discuss projects for the year.

Can an updated Base Year Program Schedule be provided? The one in the SOW starts in January.

However, the POP does not start until March.

A solicitation amendment has been posted in SAM.gov to provide accurate program schedules for the base year and option year(s).

Could you kindly clarify if the facilitator is responsible for covering any applicable rental fees for the venue? If so, are there specific arrangements or guidelines we should adhere to?

All sessions will be held at a government facility. Rental fees are not applicable to this requirement.

We are seeking further details on the 3, thirty-minute, coaching sessions per participant - Is the expectation that these sessions are in person or can they be conducted virtually via a platform like Zoom, Google Meets, Webex etc.?

All sessions are to be provided in person. One-on-one sessions may be provided virtually.

We would appreciate your guidance on the possibility of engaging 1099 employees (as an addition to our delivery team) for this opportunity. Specifically, are there any restrictions or preferences regarding the use of 1099 employees as opposed to full-time employees?

The prime contractor determines who they employee as subcontractors.

Can you provide information on the anticipated number of participants expected to be involved in this program? Understanding the scale of participation will aid in our planning and resource allocation.

15 participants.

How many learners do you estimate will complete the training program? This determines how many trainers we designate to each learning group, and the training location.

15 Participates.

We highly recommend concentrated 2 or 2.5 day training sessions for adult learning and executive development, rather than a monthly distributed training schedule. Would the USACE Memphis District consider an alternative training schedule as long as the total training hours and training objectives are met? (i.e.: 2.5 day on-site sessions in April, July, December, and remaining individual or small group virtual mentoring, feedback, and training sessions in May, June, August, September, October, November?

No. The participants will be working full-time in addition to attending these sessions and can allocate 1 day a month rather than 2-3 consecutive days.

Does the government have available access to the MVM Federal Building or similar government facilities that could be used without a fee/rental charge?

Yes, sessions will be held at the MVM Federal Building.

"The participants will be required to brief the Memphis District Commander". - Will the Offeror need to secure a location for this?

Briefing will occur on or at a government facility. The contractor will not have to secure a location.

Under Section 3 - Mandatory Elements - What do they mean by monthly reflection essays?

The students are required to send in a monthly overview of the topics discussed, books assigned, and lessons learned. The contractor sends in a monthly review of what they reviewed, taught, and assigned.

There is a bullet point under Section 3: Mandatory Proposal Elements that has a typo in it and I don’t know what it means: “Expectation of participants to graduate to include how the participants will be XXXXXX??? throughout the program”. Can you please clarify?

“Expectation of participants to graduate to include how the participants will be evaluated throughout the program.”

May I please have the maximum number of course participants who can enroll in the program? I will need it in order to estimate pricing for assessments, materials, and coaching.

There should be no more than 15 participants.

The component of the RFP labelled “Section B – Supplies or Services and Prices” appears to be requesting a single, total price for everything included in the LDP1 initiative. Is that correct?

Does USACE Memphis prefer that we ALSO include an itemized breakdown of the prices for all the various components – or do they ONLY want a single firm fixed number? If they are only looking for a single firm fixed number, should we submit that number as part of the final proposal we submit via PIEE using the document included “Section B – Supplies or Services and Prices”? If they do want a breakdown of itemized pricing, is there a specific format we should be using or can we submit our own format?

You may submit your proposal in any format as long as it is legible. Please provide itemize pricing and the total for each year. You may retrieve the solicitation amendment by clicking on the “PIEE Solicitation Module Link for W912EQ22Q14” in SAM.gov.

Are the 3, 30-minute individual coaching sessions per participant (15 participants x 1.5 hours =

22.5 hours) expected to be conducted in-person, or can these be virtual at a time that is convenient for the participant? This would change our on-site travel schedule and want to make sure it's incorporated properly in our bid.

Each participant gets one on one coaching monthly for 30 mins. Coaching sessions are to be monthly but at least three (3) in total. These are the only sessions that would be acceptable to be virtual.

How many people are anticipated to enroll/attend each year?

No more than 15 participants per year.

Are the following mandatory items listed under “1. Technical Capability” excluded from the one-page limit:

• Minimum of two guest speakers from the private sector. Speaker names and topics must be included.

• Training topics such as: Self Awareness, Team Building, Conflict Management, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Communication, Problem Solving, process improvement, strategic thinking, etc.

• Minimum of 2 current leadership books to include title, brief synopsis and how it ties into the proposed curriculum.

• Minimum of 2 certified personality/leadership assessment tool such as Myers Briggs Indicator Type (MBTI), Thomas Kilman Instrument (TKI), DISC Profile, Gallup Strengths finder, Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation (FIRO), Strong Interest Inventory, etc.

• 360 Assessment at the start of the training.

• Presentation skills/public speaking.

• Expectation of participants to graduate to include how the participants will be evaluated throughout the program

• Monthly reflection essays

No. Speak to the elements in the Narrative.

Are the additional items listed below restricted to a page limitation:

b. If using a subcontractor, provide name of subcontractor, any subcontractors used in conjunction with this agreement shall be bound to the same requirements placed on the Contractor.

c. Provide breakout cost of any travel, salary, etc. required for personnel, not currently listed in quote schedule.

d. Describe method of teaching to be applied (oral, slide, etc.), include type of visual aid(s), handouts, etc. to be used.

e. If the key personnel is affiliated with an institute of higher education that is able to confer masters-level credit to the LDP class members upon completion of the program, submit documentation establishing this affiliation.

No.

What was the previous award amount for this same program?

Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

It appears that the contractor/facilitator will lead 9 interactive training sessions. In looking at Section 7 of the solicitation, does this include the 3-day "Mid-Point Workshop" as well? Does it exclude the "Initial Workshop"?

The initial, mid-point, and wrap up session combined with the regular 1-day training classes equate to 11 sessions. The initial, mid-point, and wrap up are longer than the regular sessions to provide an in depth look at what the students are doing and learning.

Are the mandatory elements of the LDP all included in Section 3? Is there more that we should be aware of regarding the "Leading Self and Teams"?

Starting on page 30, see 52.212-2 for evaluation factors.

Just to clarify, each of the 15 participants will receive 3 individual (30 minute) coaching sessions per class member. This would be a total of 45 individual coaching sessions. Is virtual coaching an option?

These sessions can be virtual.

I see that the "facilitator will use government owned or education facilities, such as MVM Federal Building" and also that "Facilitator will pay any applicable rental fees". Would it be possible to know the range of costs associated with renting the facilities so that it can be factored in the pricing?

All sessions will be held at or on government facilities. Rental fees are not applicable to this requirement.

Are there any preferences associated with the type of 360 Leadership Assessments?

No preference, as long as it provides a comprehensive look at the student.

Should the costs associated with the purchase of a total of 30 leadership books (2 books per person) be included in the pricing as well?

Yes.

Is there a separate travel expense estimate or counsel that can be provided?

If travel expenses are required, please provide them in the quote.

Is the amendment asking for a Schedule of Training delivered meaning I must include a training agenda, dates and times to be presented.

Yes.

Or is it asking for a Module breakdown of overarching topics? Who (names) of Instructors, presenters for each topic?

Yes.

Is there an incumbent who has previously supported this work?

Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

How many participants will be selected to attend the training sessions and how are/will they be selected?

No more than 15 Participants.

Would the GOV confirm that all nine (9) training sessions are required to be in-person?

11 Sessions.

Is the expectation of the GOV that the in-person training sessions take place once per month or based on schedules discussed with the COR upon award?

Base on the scheduled provided in the solicitation.

Does the GOV have an expectation for the duration of each in-person training session (i.e., part-day, half-day, full day)?

Provided in the Program Schedule.

What is the duration of training sessions (hourly expectations) during the in-person training sessions?

30 minutes.

Is there a page limit for Past Performance examples?

No.

Would the Government consider increasing the Technical Capability Narrative to three (3) pages?

Will the Contractor be able to review the COR provided evaluation forms prior to distribution to the training participants, to understand the Government's training success factors?

This can be discussed with the COR, if selected.

Will the private sector guest speakers be able to participate remotely based on scheduling requirements? All training sessions are to be held in person. Can be discussed with COR, if selected.

Please annotate in the quote if guest speakers / instructors anticipate providing training remotely.

Must I articulate in my breakdown what percentage is Asynchronous vs synchronous as well?

Yes, that is fine.

The solicitation states that: "The contractor shall lead 9 interactive training sessions." However, the Base Year Program Schedule indicates 10 "sessions", covering 16 days (8, 1-day trainings, 2, 3-day workshops, and 1, 2-day wrap up and graduation). This is excluding the 2 half-day efforts for the COR Meeting with Contractor and the Orientation. (See table below)

Is the half day Orientation expected to be a separate (i.e. a few weeks/month apart) travel event and day from the 3-day initial workshop? Or, can this be combined into an initial 3.5-day orientation and workshop given that the first training session will likely take place in March? The solicitation states that: "The contractor is expected to provide the first session in March for each LDP Class." Can you clarify that the Orientation and Initial Workshop are expected to occur in March, (rather than the first 1-day Training Session?)

Activity Time Allocated (days, 8 hr = 1 day)

Active Facilitation/Training Hours (per Trainer present)

COR Meeting with Contractor

.5 4

Orientation .5 4

Initial Workshop 3 24

Training Session 1 8

Training Session 1 8

Training Session 1 8

Mid-Point Workshop 3 24

Training Session 1 8

Training Session 1 8

Wrap Up/Graduation 2 24

17 days 144 Active Hours

Yes, the orientation and initial workshop can be combined.

Orientation is usually completed within MVM, and the contractor goes over specifics at initial.

For the first year there is only time for 9 sessions. The remainder of the years will be 10 due to starting in February the additional years.

In addition to the objective listed are there any other specific objectives/goals the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is trying to address with their leaders? For example, are there any specific pain points/challenges they are trying to solve through this leadership program? What does a successful outcome look like for leaders who attend this program? Understanding this will help us make appropriate recommendation on books as well as the leadership development curriculum.

The goal of the program is for the students to understand themselves, and their strengths/weaknesses. We want them to have a broad look at different ways to be effective as a leader. Organization, public speaking, time management, effectiveness while teleworking are all good topics to explore.

What is the level of the 15 leaders participating in this program? Are they Direct leaders – heading up implementation teams, Organizational leaders – overseeing different departments or Strategic leaders – overseeing larger functional areas?

The 15 participants range in career levels.

In the base year program schedule our assumption is as follows:

a. The orientation (in Jan) and Initial work shop (in Feb) and the midpoint workshop (June) are intended for the contractor to work with the COR/other representatives to plan as well as review the program details.

If not, please let us know these sessions intended for the participants (in addition to the 9 sessions being offered to them)?

The orientation is for COR and leaders, the rest are for the students to have 3 points in the program to evaluate and work on their skills and projects.

For Option Period I 2025 and Option Period II 2026 - will new participants go through the same program? or will the same 15 participants go through new leadership programs?

New participants will go through the same program for Option Year One (1) and Option Year Two (2).

Are there preferred days to hold the Orientation?

See Performance Work Statement, starting on Page 6 of the solicitation.

Are there preferred days to hold the Workshops?

See Performance Work Statement, starting on Page 6 of the solicitation.

Is there a preferred hotel close to the facility for contractors?

There are several hotels near the district building office.

Was this project contracted previously as a set-aside for WOSB?

Yes.

If so, who was the vendor?

Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc. Contract Number W912EQ22P0025.

If selected, will we have contact information of participants (complete name and email address) prior to the Orientation meeting?

This can be discussed after selection.

Can Training Session/Workshops be combined, and length be increased from 1 day to 2, 3 or 4 days?

Please provide a proposed schedule in your quote and the customer will evaluate and provide questions if needed.

What is the average rental/equipment fee associated with government owned facilities for training/workshops? What is the average rental/equipment fee associated with educational facilities for training/workshops?

Sessions are expected at to be held at the district office building in conference rooms.

How soon will the graduation certificates be ready?

Graduation is expected to occur every December.

Can the frames for the certificates be mailed directly to the COR?

Certificate presentation can be discussed if selected.

What is the size of the certificates?

Can been discussed if selected.

Is the prime contractor and all subcontractors (of the prime contractor) of the RFQ required to take initial training within 30 days of award. Is the online AT Level I awareness training the same as any of the following courses found in the JKO Catalog:

• Cyber Awareness Challenge (FOUO) (1 hr) / OSI-TFAT-005 /

• Air Force Identity Management (0.5 hr) / J3OP-US1322 / ATTRS: N ATTRS Points: N

Yes. If selected, more information will be provided on the required antiterrorism training.

Please clarify if below would potentially apply to the speakers if presenting in person? Provide breakout cost of any travel, salary, etc. required for personnel, not currently listed in quote schedule.

Can you tell me if the responses will comeback directly to me or be posted and in what timeframe?

We can post them on SAM on the last day to submit questions.

When will the Amendments appear on Sam.gov for viewing from all potential vendors?

Amendment 0001 will be available January 25th.

Is it possible to view questions from other vendors prior to the last day of questions?

Solicitation questions and answers will be posted in SAM.gov on February 5th.

I just noticed that the Set Aside for SOL NO. W912EQ24Q0014 Leadership Development Program is SBA Certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program Set-Aside (FAR 19.15). I am still waiting to receive my acknowledgement letter from SBA, which I have made a copy for your records. My question, may I still submit for this opportunity?

Unfortunately, if your application isn’t approved by the time the solicitation closes, you will not be eligible an award.

We are assisting some businesses with a review of this solicitation and wondered about the possibility of pushing the date back for responses. Even a couple of days would be helpful!

Based on our customer’s need, we will not be extending this solicitation. We hope that you are able to get a quote together by the 9 February 2024 due date.

How should we submit Certificates of Insurance since both Ms. Duckett’s email address and mailing address are included in the “Notice to Vendors” Section H(b) on page 6 of the Solicitation? (Either way is fine with us. We just want to do what is expected.)

You can email the certificates of insurance to Ms. Duckett.

How many members are expected to be in each class? (We developed our budget based on an assumption of ~ 30 trainees.)

There are expected to be no more than 15 members per class.

Where it says, “See Schedule” on Item #20 on Standard Form 1449, does this refer to the Section B “Supplies or Services and Prices list” found on page 3 of the Solicitation, or to the Base Year Program Schedule presented on page 10?

The “See Schedule” is referring to Section B “Supplies or Services and Price list” on page 3.

How best to complete Provision 52.212-3, when our WOSB has completed SAM registration and is current? I know it says at the bottom of page 32 of the Solicitation to complete only Section (b), which begins on page 36, but there is no readily apparent place in Section (b) to complete.

Please advise.

Provision 52.212-3 can be completed on page 36 and not in section B.

Is this a new contract or a recompete? If this is a recompete, can the government provide the value of the contract? What is the contract number and name of the incumbent?

This is a recurring requirement. Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

Are we correct in our readings that the entire area of 1(a) Technical Capability is to include all items requested in the paragraph, along with an explanation directly related to each bullet listed?

In the Technical Capability narrative, the contractor at a minimum shall incorporate the mandatory elements listed in the bullet points.

We request that 1(a) be revised as just a 1-page submission for Technical Capability as it is not sufficient to adequately address and be completely responsive. Is this possible? We request consideration of 4-5 pages as a maximum to address all areas of 1 (a) to include bullets. Is this possible?

If you want to submit more than one page, we will still accept your quote.

Is it acceptable to add the resume of key personnel as an appendix within the submission?

Yes.

Can other items that better depict the “how” or showcase specifics of the work performance be added as an appendix?

Yes.

Can an introduction page (1-2 pages) be added prior to the Technical Capability that does not address any of the questions listed for 1(a), but introduces all parties involved in the submission?

If using a subcontractor, provide name of subcontractor, any subcontractors used in conjunction with this agreement shall be bound to the same requirements placed on the Contractor. Can additional information regarding the subcontractor (s) beyond just the names be added in this section? If not, can additional information regarding the subcontractor (s) be provided in an appendix?

Yes.

Is only section 52.212-2 :1-4 required for this submission or are their other areas below it that are also needed within the submission? For example: 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS--COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2023) and

52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR

EXECUTIVE ORDERS--COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (DEC 2023).

Also, provide a curriculum for the yearly program schedule for the customer to evaluate.

Is it possible for this solicitation to be extended an additional week?

The customer requires these services as soon as possible. This solicitation will not be extended.

This block should contain: Cage Code, UEI, EIN, Legal Business Address (correspondence) & Business Phone?

Please include this information in your quote, maybe on page one or two.

Are payments only mailed to the vendor’s mailing/correspondence address?

No. They are usually set-up as EFT payment. We need to ensure the correct address is provided to set-up the EFT payment.

Does the “Issued By” participate in the use of Government Credit Card Payments?

Please annotate in your quote if your company accepts credit card payments, and if there are any associated processing fees.

If so, where would I place the information that this is the way the vendor would like to receive payments?

Under the information above.

Is payment available via Direct Deposit with the routing and account number provided?

This information can be provided if selected.

If so, where would I place the information that this is the way the vendor would like to receive payments?

See above.

Where can I find Standard Form 33 Block 15a, if any of the above forms of payment to the vendor is acceptable? Can this form be emailed to me?

Please enter that information on page 1, Block 17a of the solicitation (Standard Form 1449).

Minimum of 2 current leadership books to include title, brief synopsis and how it ties into the proposed curriculum. Is the Contractor responsible for purchasing these 2 books for participants?

Yes.

The term “current” in higher education refers to books that are published within the last 5 years (2020 – 2024). Are these dates acceptable for this RFQ?

Yes, quality books can precede 2020-2024.

Can these leadership books tied to the proposed curriculum be a secondary source within the curriculum (as long as it is directly related)?

Please provide additional information. We don’t understand the meaning of this question.

Does the Base Year term for the LDP1 Start March 2024 and End December 2024 (10 Months)?

Or

Does the Base Year term for the LDP1 Start March 2024 and End February 2025 (12 Months)?

Approximately 10 / 10 ½ months Mid-February through December 2024.

Please advise if there is another option available.

Please explain question.

Will OPT Year One & OPT Year Two start in January 2025 (ending December 2025) and January 2026 (ending December 2026)?

Option Year One will be January through December 2025.

Option Year two will be January through December 2026.

We have reviewed the Base Year Program Schedule Section 7 multiple times but are unable to identify just 9 interactive training sessions using February 2024 as a half day, (COR Meeting with Contractor) half day (Orientation) and two days (Wrap Up/Graduation). Please advise if we should focus our efforts on each month of the year and not just 9 Interactive training session (Note: All of our training and workshop sessions are interactive).

There are 11 sessions.

The evaluation section requires a 1 page 'Technical Capability' narrative to include ability to perform work, key personnel, past performance, guest speakers, training topics, leadership book, and leadership assessments. To address all these technical elements, even briefly, will require more than 1 page. Would the government consider raising 'Technical Capability' narrative page limit to 3 pages?

Section 2 states "The contractor shall lead 9 interactive training sessions." In Section 7, the table shows 8 training sessions and 2 workshops. Please confirm which elements of Section 7 are considered interactive training sessions.

There are 11 sessions.

What is the expected level of understanding or prior experience in leadership for the participants?

Participants will range in career levels.

Are there any specific demographic considerations for the participants?

No.

Can you provide more information on each training session's expected duration and frequency?

See Solicitation, starting on page 10, and Solicitation Amendment 0001.

Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for using government-owned or educational facilities?

Sessions will be held at or on government-owned facilities.

What is the anticipated size of the training rooms, and is there any specific audiovisual equipment that must be used?

Rooms will range in size but shall accommodate the class size. There will be audiovisual equipment and can be discussed with the COR if selected.

Are there specific reporting templates or formats for monthly communication with participants?

No.

How does the COR envision the communication process between the contractor and participants?

Mostly e-mail, and in person during sessions.

What are the expectations for progress tracking and reporting throughout the program? Tracking is flexible. Contractor should work with COR to confirm participants’ progress.

Could you provide more details on the mentee's roles and responsibilities? They are assigned a mentor within our organization.

The mentor will provide another outlet for learning and questions. Participants will attend some meeting with mentors. The contractor will not be required to track this process.

How does the COR envision the contractor's involvement in mentoring guidance throughout the program?

See above.

Are there specific guidelines for the content and focus of the coaching sessions?

No. The goal of the program is for the students to understand themselves, and their strengths/weaknesses. We want them to have a broad look at different ways to be effective as a leader. Organization, public speaking, time management, effectiveness while teleworking are all good topics to explore.

Can you provide more information on the participant evaluation forms, including specific criteria and metrics?

Upon selection, contractor will receive participant’s information.

How does the COR expect the contractor to use the evaluation results for program improvement?

We will use information to improvement content and / or evaluate materials.

Are there any specific key performance indicators (KPIs) or benchmarks for evaluating the contractor's performance?

No. As long as the content is being taught and milestones are being meet.

What are the expectations for the structure and format of the graduation ceremony?

The contractor must be present for the ceremony with a reception to follow. Contractor will provide frame for certificates.

Are there specific elements that should be included in the participants' brief to the Memphis District Commander?

Details of course content.

How does the COR envision the contractor's involvement in the graduation ceremony?

See answer for first questions in this section.

Can you provide more details on the expected content of the half-day planning session with the

COR?

Discuss the plan for the LDP.

Are there any specific themes or topics the COR would like to emphasize in the proposed curriculum?

The goal of the program is for the students to understand themselves, and their strengths/weaknesses. We want them to have a broad look at different ways to be effective as a leader. Organization, public speaking, time management, effectiveness while teleworking are all good topics to explore.

How flexible is the curriculum, and are there opportunities for adjustments based on participant feedback?

The contractor must create the curriculum. However, the program schedule is not flexible.

How many participants for each annual cohort? Are you able to share their ranks/levels within the organization?

15 Participant. Ranks/levels within the organization can be shared after selection process.

In the optional years, is there an expectation for the course curriculum to be adjusted? e.g., First year – Level 1, Second year – Level 2, etc.

No. The Option Year (s) are for new classes at the LDP1 level.

On the monthly reflection essays, in addition to the facilitators, will the mentors or other staff review and provide feedback to the participants?

Mentors will receive the reflection essays and will discuss with mentees during their one-on-one session.

Are external team-building activities allowed? Are there security restrictions?

Yes. Field trip must be discussed with the COR before the field trip takes place.

When will the Q&A be available for review?

Solicitation questions and answer will post in SAM.gov on February 5th.

Is there an incumbent? If so, would the Government please share how much has been spent to date?

There is no incumbent. Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

How many attendees are expected for each session?

15 Participants.

Please clarify if the Government already has a copy of a 360 Assessment for the Contractor to administer or is the Contractor expected to select one?

No, there isn’t a 360 preference, as long as it provides a comprehensive look at the student.

Does the Government have a Learning Management System to be used for scheduling training and coaching sessions as well as registration for attendees?

No. Please provide if needed.

Is each participant expected to attend all course topics during the year?

Yes.

What are the expectations for the agenda at the initial workshop in March?

The contractor goes over specifics at initial.

Does the Government have a preferred format for the breakout cost of travel, salary, etc., for personnel not listed in the quote schedule? Or, is the format left up to the vendor?

Left up to the vendor.

Is it acceptable to use a mixture of company and facilitators' previous experience to meet the past performance requirements?

Yes.

Previous Data Availability: What is the average experience level and leadership background of the participants? Do you have a breakdown of their past managerial experience? (i.e. 5% have 10 years of management or 50% have never been managers.)

The participants will range in career levels.

What are the average costs of rental fees for facilities that can be used?

All sessions will be held at a government facility. Rental fees are not applicable to this requirement.

What are the specific expectations for the graduation ceremony? Should participants be receiving any meals this day?

The contractor must be present for the ceremony with a reception to follow. Contractor is expected to provide the frame for certificates. There is a possibility the contractor may be asked to provide the reception food. This can be further discussed if selected.

Should participants receive meals any other training day?

No.

How many are in the program? This is critical to know being that each participant is expected to have three thirty minute coaching sessions outside of the scheduled sessions.

The expectation is there will be no more than 15 participants.

More detail on the rental of space for the sessions??

“Facilitator will pay any applicable rental fees. The facilitator will not be granted access to the Government's computer network. The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) will work in conjunction with the contractor/facilitator to identify, reserve and setup approved training facilities for training sessions.”

All sessions will be held at a government facility. Rental fees are not applicable to this requirement.

Will the participants have their own equipment? i.e computers/laptops?

Yes. All Participants should have access to their government-owned work computers / laptops.

How much detail of the leadership curriculum is expected for the proposal?

Enough detail for the customer(s) to properly evaluate the proposal and determine if the contractor meets the requirement. Ensure to speak to the mandatory elements listed the Evaluation clause Starting on page 30, see 52.212-2.

Section C, paragraph D (Bais of Award) states “The Government will award (1) Firm Fixed Price Contract from this to the responsible Vendor whose quote conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government based on Technical Capability, Past Performance, and Price” and references FAR 52.212-2. Section C, paragraph D (Price) states “All quotes will be evaluated, and a determination made of lowest price, from prices presented on the Bidding Schedule, based on the Total of all line items.” Does the Government plan to award the contract based on Best Value (Most Advantageous) or Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA)?

The Government plans to award the contract based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable.

Solicitation Amendment 0002 should post on 2/2/2024 or 2/5/2024 to clarify the Basis of Award.

Does The Leadership Development Level 1 program have an incumbent contractor (supplier) under the previous contractor? If so, are you allowed to disclose the company’s information (Name) and allowable information, please.

Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

What is the Approximate number of participants in each of the 9 mandated sessions? Are they all military officers, NCO’s or civilians engineers?

15 participants. All are civilian employees at different career levels.

Are any of the participants ‘C’ Level personnel, specifically, General Officers, Command level Officers and/or Senior Executive Series?

The participants have not been selected. See answer to number 2.

Am I (my company) responsible for providing and facilitating use of electronic devices for the participants to complete off-hour assignments, i.e. computer station space, laptops and Notebooks etc.?

All Participants should have access to their government-owned work computers / laptops.

The 'Base year Program Schedule" shows a total of 16 days of Training Sessions (8 days for the Initial Workshop, Mid-Point Workshop and Wrap Up/Graduation) plus 8 Training Sessions consisting of 1 day. Should we work with '16' or '11' as the number for total days of training?

Please factor in 16 days spread across 11 Sessions.

Also, what is the rank type of the program participants?

The LDP class has not be selected to determine the career levels of the participants.

Will the vendor be required to work in a secure area?

The contractor will have to be cleared by security to gain access to the building.

Will the vendor be able to use their own internet link during the conduct of the class (i.e., HotSpot Device, Cell phone, etc.)?

Yes.

How many students will be in the program at one time?

15 participants.

Will the class have the same students throughout the program?

The participants will change each year.

Will the mentors assigned during this program be assigned from withing USACE Memphis District?

Yes.

Can the coaching be conducted virtually?

One-on-one coaching sessions may be provided virtually.

Will the students have access to ZOOM, Teams, or Google Meeting?

Participants will have access to Teams.

Ma’am, are guest speakers required to be in person or can it be virtually?

Must be in person.

Will the students be able and allowed to complete prerequisite assessments - prior to the first session being delivered?

Yes, I believe so.

Will classes be held at government facilities or external?

All sessions will be held at or on government facilities.

Will there only be one LDP per year?

Yes.

What was the previously used 360-degree assessment (and does USACE have a preference)?

There isn’t a 360 preference, as long as it provides a comprehensive look at the student.

Is there a page limit for the total RFP response? Please explain the “one-page narrative” expectation for the technical response (per page 31 of the solicitation: “One-page narrative labeled “Technical Capability” describing ability to perform work specified, can include specialized equipment, and any specialized personnel qualifications. Include years of experience of the company and with the company, and key personnel who will perform the work. Clearly state if you have provided previous programs featuring coaching/mentoring/one-on-one interaction with program participants and team building components. Include any other information that will enable the Government to determine the contractors’ capability to provide required services.) If you want to submit more than one page, we will still accept your quote.

If the technical capability is limited to one page (per the previous question) can we add more relevant details in other sections? Same answer as number 4.

Who was the incumbent? (and how much was that contact for?) Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

Solicitation section 52.212-2 on Page 31 – states technical capability is limited to one page.

Please confirm that this is correct.

If you want to submit more than one page, we will still accept your quote.

Given the 1 page limit – is it safe to assume no resumes are required or detailed breakdown of technical approach, or proposed curriculum details are not required? Submission may be more than one page.

Solicitation Page 5 – Technical Volume 1 – Is the technical volume limited to 1 page ? No.

Solicitation Page 5 - Is the Volume II Past Performance ? You may assemble your quote any order.

PIEE has file size limitations, therefore the contractor may have to break the files down into smaller sections to upload (see page 5 of the solicitation). To ensure your submission is received, we ask if you have multiple submissions put a volume number on each submission so we can assemble your quote in the correct order.

Should Price be a separate file – Volume III ? See answer to number 4.

Typically on solicitations we can see the Q&A from all vendors and we have not yet seen any Q&A posted on sam.gov or on PIEE. Is it possible to post all the Q&A’s on sam.gov as they are very helpful. We should be posting Q&As today or tomorrow.

Who is the current incumbent training provider?

Previously, Contract Number W912EQ22P0025 was awarded to the Nonprofit Empowerment Group, Inc., for a similar requirement.

What is the incumbent's full contract price? No allowed to disclose.

Will there be an alternative website to access the initial AT Level I training? The site provided in the solicitation (https://jko.jten.mil/) results in an error message when visiting on multiple browsers. Yes, upon selection this information can be provided.

How soon after the contract award will contract personnel receive initial training from the RA Representative on the local suspicious activity reporting program? Not too long after award.

Is it possible for the local suspicious activity reporting program to be completed remotely? Some training may have to occur in person.

For confirmation is the district office physical address 167 North Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103? Yes.

Is audio-visual equipment like A screen to display…