9250-26-R-IFBD-00002

Mississippi State University's Office of Procurement and Contracts is soliciting proposals for a mobile educational aquifer exhibit to be installed in a 24-foot cargo car hauler trailer. The procurement, identified as RFP 26-14, seeks a comprehensive design and fabrication solution for an interactive exhibit demonstrating the Mississippi Alluvial Aquifer, groundwater and surface water interactions, and agricultural water conservation practices. Required deliverables include a 3D aquifer model with working pump and flow systems, a multi-layered sediment display, a plant root system model with moisture sensors, a 32-inch interactive touchscreen, and a full exterior vinyl wrap with university branding. Vendors must provide all necessary labor, materials, equipment, and expertise for design, construction, installation, and testing. Key deadlines include vendor questions due by November 20, 2025, university responses by December 1, 2025, and sealed proposals due by December 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The evaluation criteria will assess corporate structure and experience (10 points), design plan and higher education marketing knowledge (55 points), and fees (35 points).

The solicitation does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must submit proposals in two sealed packages: a technical proposal and a cost proposal, with each package containing one original and one electronic PDF copy on a flash drive. The technical proposal must include a three-page cover letter, corporate credentials, years of experience, staffing levels, similar project examples, three references, and an operations capability plan. The cost proposal must detail base costs, additional fees, and willingness to negotiate fees for other Mississippi higher education institutions. While a specific budget range is not disclosed, the estimated award date is February 2, 2026, with the contract commencing upon award. Mississippi State University retains the right to terminate the contract with thirty days' notice if contract terms are violated, and proposals will remain valid for 180 days following the submission deadline. The selected vendor must acknowledge independent contractor status, comply with National Electrical Code standards, provide operation and maintenance manuals, and conduct a training session for MAFES personnel.