Advise TX Hybrid Program: College Advising Chatbot Services and Case Management Integration

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) has issued Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 781-6-03935 for the Advise TX Hybrid Program, seeking a vendor to provide college advising chatbot services and case management integration. The primary objective is to support a near-peer college access program designed to increase postsecondary enrollment for low-income, first-generation students across Texas. The selected vendor must utilize the Mainstay chatbot platform to deliver a mobile-first, AI-powered solution capable of engaging students and escalating inquiries to campus-based advisers. Proposals are due by July 29, 2025, at 11:30 p.m. CST/CDT, with an anticipated contract start date of August 31, 2025, and an initial contract term ending on August 31, 2026. The evaluation will be conducted using a best value approach, with weightings of 20% for price, 50% for strength of response to the scope of work, and 30% for experience and qualifications. Respondents must have a minimum of three years' experience in similar services and collaborating with higher education institutions and state agencies.

The RFP indicates that there are no specific HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) subcontracting opportunities for this procurement, suggesting that the primary contractor will likely perform all contract work directly. The THECB reserves the right to award multiple contracts and may consider factors such as past vendor performance, adherence to schedules, and overall ability to meet the program's objectives. While no specific budget or funding source is explicitly stated, the RFP requires respondents to provide all-inclusive pricing covering services, travel expenses, personnel costs, and other necessary expenses. Potential respondents must complete a comprehensive Execution of Proposal form, which includes disclosures about business ownership, potential conflicts of interest, and compliance with various state regulations. The contract template indicates that the selected vendor will be required to maintain specific insurance coverages, including workers' compensation, commercial general liability, and automobile liability, with specified minimum coverage amounts. Contractors must also comply with state and federal laws, verify eligibility to work, and adhere to cybersecurity standards.