13521-20241118095058 Itawamba

The Itawamba County Development Council has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking a public relations agency to support tourism industry recovery in Itawamba County, Mississippi. The selected firm will be responsible for developing comprehensive messaging and advertising strategies targeting travelers, with a focus on promoting the county's three municipalities: Fulton, Mantachie, and Tremont. Specific deliverables include website design and functionality, print collateral, billboard advertising, and in-market signage to increase regional tourism awareness. Proposals must be submitted by 5:00 pm CDT on December 9, 2024, with contract award anticipated by December 16, 2024, and project commencement scheduled for December 21, 2024. Evaluation criteria will prioritize tourism industry experience, capacity to execute the proposed scope of work, quality of references, and demonstrated prior achievements in similar marketing initiatives. Proposing agencies must submit comprehensive documentation including statements of qualifications, detailed tourism experience, organizational structure, client information, and a proposed budget.

The RFP does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises. The contract will be funded through federal ARPA dollars allocated for Mississippi Tourism Recovery, with a minimum budget of $200,000 for the project. Invoicing will be limited to one submission per quarter, and the Itawamba County Development Council reserves the right to adjust the budget and related services as needed during contract negotiations. The total contract duration will be determined through subsequent discussions with the selected vendor. Potential respondents should demonstrate a robust working knowledge of the tourism industry and have the capability to produce messaging that can effectively reach a broad range of travelers. While no incumbent vendor is mentioned, the successful agency will be expected to work collaboratively with the county development council to achieve strategic tourism growth objectives.