25STC009 california climate investments outreach and communications

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is issuing Request for Proposals No. 25STC009 to procure communications and outreach services designed to increase awareness and access to California Climate Investments programs among priority populations, including disadvantaged communities, low-income communities, and Tribal communities. The contractor will be responsible for designing and implementing targeted communications and outreach strategies through three primary mechanisms: developing written and video project narratives from climate investment sites, organizing regional outreach events and tours, and implementing six comprehensive outreach campaigns utilizing digital channels including social media and newsletters. Key deliverables include securing speaking opportunities at outreach events, creating digital content, and producing materials that have been reviewed by communications professionals. Minimum qualifications require three years of stakeholder engagement experience with at least one year in California, five years of experience developing community-centered narratives supported by three written and three video examples, five years designing communications strategies, implementation of at least three prior outreach campaigns, demonstrated ability to produce written materials reviewed by someone with five years of communications experience, and three years of Spanish translation experience. Proposers must be registered with the California Secretary of State and maintain insurance coverage including $1,000,000 general liability per occurrence, $2,000,000 automobile liability, and $1,000,000 professional liability. The written question submission deadline is April 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. PST, with proposals due May 11, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. PST, evaluation scheduled for May 19, 2026, and an intent to award notice expected by May 20, 2026.

The RFP includes multiple set-aside and preference designations to encourage participation from underrepresented business categories. Small Business (SB) and Microbusiness (MB) firms receive a five percent preference, with certification or demonstration of 25 percent subcontracting to SB/MB entities qualifying for this preference. Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation is strongly encouraged with incentive points available for firms achieving 1 to 5 percent or greater DVBE participation. Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) preferences may also apply if applicable to the proposer's circumstances. The contract award value is $400,000.00 for the initial 26-month term, with an optional 10-month renewal period budgeted at up to $200,000.00 at CARB's discretion, all costs structured as firm-fixed pricing inclusive of labor, materials, travel, subcontractors, reports, and applicable taxes. The Sustainable Transportation and Communities Division will oversee contract administration, with Mounika Thorupunuri and Josh Savage designated as primary agency contacts for inquiries and clarifications throughout the procurement process.