CPRG Accelerator Research and Best Practices

The Colorado Energy Office in partnership with the Department of Local Affairs is requesting proposals for research and best practices development supporting the CPRG Accelerator program, with written inquiries due July 17, 2026, and proposals due August 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The work scope involves conducting policy and program research, facilitating multi-stakeholder engagement, and developing actionable strategies to enhance local government participation in state climate action initiatives across Denver County and Denver City.

Deliverables include a comprehensive gap analysis, four sector-specific best practices briefs covering buildings, land use, transportation, and waste, and a final Accelerator 2.0 program approach framework. The offeror must demonstrate a minimum of two years' experience conducting policy or program research and program design for state or local government clients, particularly in climate, energy, or environmental programs. All work must comply with EPA Federal Award Terms and Conditions associated with CPRG, including adherence to 2 CFR 200, 2 CFR 1500, 40 CFR 33, and EPA's Quality Program. All deliverables must meet WCAG Level AA accessibility standards and comply with Colorado's AI governance requirements, including mandatory disclosure of any AI tool use in creating or contributing to work, with qualified personnel review and approval prior to submission.

The maximum budget is $338,000 on a firm-fixed-rate basis with time-and-materials invoicing supported by monthly progress reports. The desired contract start date is November 9, 2026, with an initial term ending June 30, 2029, and options to renew annually for up to two additional years, not to exceed five years total. A public virtual proposal opening is scheduled for August 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with an estimated Intent to Award publication date of October 9, 2026. The evaluation committee will assess proposals based on demonstrated experience and capabilities, technical approach, cost reasonableness, and accessibility compliance, with cost being one factor among many rather than the sole deciding factor. Offerors must disclose whether services will be performed outside Colorado or the United States, with justification if applicable. Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business offerors must provide SBA certification and be incorporated or organized in Colorado or maintain a place of business in the state.