Childcare Provider Market Rate Survey (MRS)

The State of Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is requesting proposals for a comprehensive Market Rate Survey of licensed childcare providers across Nebraska under RFP 126746 O3, with proposals due September 29, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. A preference for resident disabled veterans or businesses located in designated enterprise zones applies when all other factors are equal.

The scope spans five deliverable phases: Phase 1 (Planning) requires establishing an advisory committee and developing a draft survey; Phase 2 (Data Collection) involves collecting data using approved methods; Phase 3 (Data Analysis) generates preliminary rate estimates segmented by geographic location, provider type, and children's age groups; Phase 4 (Report Writing) produces a comprehensive report with recommendations; and Phase 5 (Final Report and Presentation) delivers executive summary findings and recommendations in print and electronic formats to DHHS and the Early Childhood Interagency Coordinating Council. Bidders must demonstrate experience conducting similar market rate surveys, expertise in childcare industry analysis, and technical capacity to manage large datasets while ensuring statewide coverage, adequate provider response rates, data confidentiality, statistical rigor, and representative sampling across provider types and geographic regions.

The initial contract term spans four years (2026–2029) with an optional one-year renewal period (2030–2033). Contract pricing must remain fixed for the initial four years and any optional renewal; subsequent price increases cannot exceed five percent and require written request at least 60 days prior to contract period end. The State reserves the right to extend the contract beyond the termination date when mutually agreeable. Evaluation weighs corporate overview at 30 points, technical response at 60 points, and cost at 10 points, with an additional 20 points possible for vendor demonstrations. Cost evaluation applies a comparative formula, with the lowest realistic cost receiving maximum points. Written questions are due September 17, 2026; responses post by September 23. The Intent to Award is expected October 9–14, 2026, with contract finalization by October 29 and contract start November 1, 2026. Bidders must submit electronically via ShareFile and comply with Nebraska Secretary of State registration, comprehensive insurance coverage requirements, and E-Verify work eligibility verification.