2025 DPS/BCA BTAM Conference

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is seeking a conference facility to host the 2025 Behavioral Threat Assessment Management (BTAM) Conference scheduled for October 27-30, 2025. The procurement aims to establish a contract for a conference venue that can accommodate approximately 300 attendees, located within 35 miles of the Brainerd, MN Post Office. Specific requirements include conference facilities with registration areas, general and breakout session rooms, exhibitor spaces, audio-visual equipment, catering services, and associated logistical support. The evaluation criteria will be comprehensive, with a total of 1000 possible points, of which 800 points are allocated to cost details. Proposals must be submitted by May 7, 2025, at 3:00 PM Central Time, with a contract term running from the date of execution through December 31, 2025. Potential vendors must be registered in the SWIFT system and can seek assistance from the Vendor Assistance Helpdesk at 651.201.8100 Option 1. Casinos are explicitly prohibited from bidding on this conference opportunity.

The state of Minnesota emphasizes diversity and inclusion in this procurement, encouraging participation from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with substantial physical disabilities. The solicitation specifically welcomes small businesses and those located in economically disadvantaged counties. While no incumbent vendor is mentioned, the state reserves the right to negotiate with multiple responders or reject all responses if deemed in the state's best interest. Joint ventures are permitted in the bidding process. Although the exact budget range is not explicitly stated, the pricing schedule suggests a comprehensive service requirement covering lodging (10 rooms on the first night, 300 rooms subsequently), conference facilities, meals, audio-visual equipment, and associated services. The state will not guarantee a minimum number of attendees or lodging rooms, and prices are to be quoted in US currency, including all associated fees, duties, taxes, and overhead. Vendors must comply with various state and federal regulations, including ADA requirements, fire safety codes, and potential COVID-19 health guidelines.