Cannabis Equity Program Strategic Marketing TA

The City of Boston's Office of Economic Opportunity & Inclusion is seeking competitive quotes for strategic marketing technical assistance to cannabis equity businesses under a Written Quote Contract, with quotes due December 1, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. EST and a virtual Q&A session scheduled for November 9, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

Vendors must demonstrate at least three years of experience serving diverse businesses including cannabis, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged enterprises, with at least three comparable projects and two examples of public-sector experience. Evidence of cannabis industry knowledge specific to state and local marketing regulations and restrictions is required, along with two to three professional references.

The scope covers one-on-one technical assistance in brand development, marketing strategy, digital marketing, content creation, website development, social media management, public relations, event marketing, and analytics and reporting. Deliverables also include workshops and group sessions, participation in technical assistance events, presentations and testimony at hearings and community meetings, and development of City-owned guidance materials for cannabis marketing compliance and best practices. The objective is to enable compliant marketing operations, increase brand awareness, drive customer engagement, and expand market share for certified and pre-certified cannabis equity businesses throughout Boston.

The maximum contract budget is $49,000 with project-based payment upon satisfactory completion of deliverables and invoices. All quoted prices must be inclusive of travel, administrative time, and incidental expenses with no additional reimbursements permitted. The contract term runs from December 21, 2026 through February 28, 2028 with no renewal options. Award will be made to the lowest quote deemed responsible and responsive.

Vendors must comply with the Boston Jobs, Living Wage, and Prevailing Wage Ordinance, carry workers' compensation and professional liability insurance, certify non-debarment, and agree to provide full access to performance records for seven years following final payment.