2021-MBI-03 Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Broadband Planning Consulting and Legal Services

The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, on behalf of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ No. 2021-MBI-03) to solicit responses from qualified consultants, contractors, and legal firms with experience in advising owners of communications networks. The RFQ seeks services in several categories, including business and technical consulting, market research, procurement development, legal support, fiber management, and network platform upgrades, to support MBI's comprehensive planning process for the MassBroadband 123 Network. The goal is to develop and implement a long-term action plan involving procurements. Respondents must provide details on their qualifications, experience, expertise, proposed approach, and billing rates and structure. The application deadline is June 16, 2021. MBI may choose to qualify all, some, or none of the respondents, and prequalification does not guarantee the award of any work orders.

The RFQ is focused on the Worcester County area in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative anticipates establishing a set rate schedule with the selected respondents through June 30, 2023. While the network is currently operated by a contractor, the 10-year agreement expires in August 2023, prompting MBI's planning process. The RFQ does not specify any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, nor does it list any incumbent vendors or current contractors. The available budget or award values are also not provided in the RFQ documents.