1411-26-R-RFQP-00001

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) and the Office of Statewide Strategic Sourcing (OSSS) have issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Tourism Branding/Marketing Campaign Consultants, seeking a professional services consultant to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy for Visit Mississippi. The primary objective is to generate economic growth and enhance the state's tourism industry through strategic branding and marketing efforts. The contract will span three years with potential renewals for up to 24 months, focusing on developing short-term and long-term marketing strategies across traditional and digital media platforms, public relations, and tourism product development. Offerors must demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in similar services, with specific requirements including prior tourism marketing work for a state agency within the past three years. The evaluation process is rigorous, involving a three-step review: an initial compliance check, a written management qualifications assessment worth 80 points, and an oral presentation worth 120 points, with only the top three scorers advancing to the final presentation stage. The RFQ was released on October 8, 2025, with qualifications due by November 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM CST.

The solicitation includes specific financial and operational requirements for potential contractors, mandating a minimum available line of credit of $2 million and either an existing Mississippi office or a commitment to establish one within 120 days of contract award. The pricing structure is set at a blended hourly rate of $100 per hour, with media commissions of 10% for traditional media placements and 6% for digital media placements. While the RFQ does not explicitly mention set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, it emphasizes the importance of financial stability and proven experience in the tourism marketing sector. The contract appears to be competitively bid, with no information provided about incumbent vendors or existing technological infrastructure. Although a specific total contract value is not disclosed, the hourly rate and potential three-year duration suggest a significant investment in tourism marketing strategy for the state of Mississippi. The comprehensive nature of the RFQ indicates a substantial commitment to enhancing the state's tourism industry through professional marketing and branding services.