Gold Level Sponsorship - 2024 Minorities in Agriculture, National Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS)

This Sources Sought Notice is being issued for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as a solicitation or as an obligation on the part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).  A Source Sought Notice for information regarding a potential procurement with National Institute of Food and Agriculture, (NIFA), USDA is being conducted. NIFA has the need for Gold Level Sponsorship for the 2024 Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS).    

This is not a solicitation announcement or request for proposal. It does not constitute any commitment by the Government. No award will result from this notice. The purpose is to conduct market research to gain knowledge of potentially qualified sources.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this project is 813312 with a Size Standard of $17 million.

Responses to this notice will be used by the Government to make an appropriate acquisition decision. The USDA will not award a contract based on responses or pay for the preparation of any information submitted. Respondents will not be notified of the results of this notice.

After completing an analysis of the responses, the Government will determine whether to limit small business competition to 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, Women-Owned, or other small business firms, or to proceed with issuing an unrestricted solicitation, inviting full and open competition.
Background

The purpose of this contract is to provide Gold Level Sponsorship for the 2024 Minorities in Agriculture, National Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS).  MANRRS is an exciting time for the food, agriculture, natural resources, and related science fields as they continue to grow and evolve, always remaining adaptable, motivated, and responsive to our membership, societal, and workforce needs. The MANRRS Training Conference and Career Expo provides an opportunity for representatives of government, industry, academia, and nonprofit organizations to connect directly with some of the best and brightest students and professionals from more than 65 colleges and universities representing 1862, 1890, 1994 Land-Grant Institutions, and Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI).

Through Annual Training Conference and Career Expo, the National Society of MANRRS offers many benefits and services to help members increase their knowledge and develop skills in partnerships for student success.  

Sessions acquaint new members with MANRRS and prepare them for future roles in their chapters, and help experienced members improve and refine their knowledge and skills for their ideal jobs or internships in the agriculture and natural resource industries.

AGENCY BENEFITS
1. Connect with the largest number of diverse students and professionals in food, agriculture, natural resources, and human/health sciences. Engage in small-group breakout sessions. 
2. Increase your brand visibility with an exhibit booth at the virtual career fair. 
3. Increase your knowledge and awareness relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
4. Connect with new universities who may not be a part of your organization’s recruitment plan.
5. Promote your internships and career opportunities.
6. Access attendees’ resumes.
7. Participate in workshops & mock interviews.

Period of Performance
March 20-24, 2024

THIS IS A SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE ONLY. NO SOLICITATION EXISTS. THIS REQUEST IS INTENDED ONLY TO IDENTIFY SOURCES.

Government point of contact for this notice is Marian Dyson at Marian.Dyson@usda.gov.