1635-26-R-RFPR-00001

The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Pre-Employment Transition Services under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), seeking qualified contractors to provide comprehensive services for students with disabilities statewide. The procurement encompasses five key service categories: Job Exploration Counseling, Workplace Readiness Training, Work-Based Learning Experiences, Counseling on Post-Secondary Education and Training Opportunities, and Instruction in Self-Advocacy Training. Contractors must possess at minimum a Bachelor's degree and one year of relevant experience working with individuals with disabilities. The contract period will run from December 10, 2025, through December 9, 2026, with potential renewals for up to four successive one-year periods. Proposals are due by October 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST, with contractor selection to be completed prior to October 31, 2025. The services will be delivered through both group and individual units, with compensation structured on a per-unit basis ranging from $75 to $110 depending on service type and delivery method. Contractors must be prepared to specify geographic service areas, coordinate with MDRS counselors and local school districts, and submit monthly reports and invoices.

The RFQ does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, suggesting the procurement is open to a broad range of qualified providers. Providers will be required to integrate their services with existing MDRS infrastructure and coordinate closely with local rehabilitation and educational systems. While the total contract compensation amount will be specified in the final agreement, the unit-based pricing suggests significant flexibility in potential contract values. MDRS anticipates making multiple awards to ensure comprehensive coverage across Mississippi's geographic regions. Contractors must demonstrate the capability to provide authorized services through direct coordination with MDRS counselors, ensuring alignment with WIOA transition service requirements. The procurement appears designed to create a flexible, responsive network of service providers capable of supporting students with disabilities in their pre-employment and career development journeys. Successful contractors will play a critical role in preparing students for workforce entry and post-secondary educational opportunities.