DCYF/Cost of Child Care Analysis

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is requesting proposals for a cost of child care analysis under RFP, with proposals due November 3, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. CST and an anticipated selection date of November 18, 2026.

The scope requires the contractor to analyze the estimated cost of providing child care in Minnesota, accounting for variations by geographic location, type of care, age of child, quality of care, and costs associated with serving economically disadvantaged and racially/ethnically diverse families, including Tribally-licensed or Tribally-operated programs. The contractor must collect and analyze new data during the contract period, provide recommendations for improving cost data analysis and reporting methodologies, and offer expertise on using cost data to inform maximum reimbursement rates for the Child Care Assistance Program. Work must be performed within United States borders.

The contract term is Winter 2026 through June 30, 2028, with anticipated renewal options extending through July 1, 2031 for a total possible term of up to five years. The contract is funded through the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act and Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF).

Evaluation uses a three-phase process: Phase I assesses responsiveness and pass/fail requirements; Phase II scores technical proposals on work plan (350 points), qualifications and experience (200 points), diversity, equity, and inclusion (150 points), and cost detail (300 points) for 1,000 total points. Proposals must include separate technical and cost components, references, a diversity and equity plan, relevant experience documentation, and a detailed work plan submitted through the SWIFT system.

Contractors must hold workers' compensation insurance, general commercial liability of $2,000,000, and professional liability insurance of $2,000,000. E-Verify certification is required for services exceeding $50,000. Responders must register as vendors in SWIFT prior to submission. Questions were due October 12, 2026. Contact Linda Vang at 651/539-7868 or Linda.Vang@state.mn.us.