DFA Media Campaign

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) is seeking a comprehensive media campaign contractor to support the launch and promotion of a new mobile application in 2026. The solicitation (S000000488) calls for a full-service advertising and marketing agency capable of developing integrated multi-channel marketing strategies across digital and traditional platforms. Prospective contractors must demonstrate at least five years of experience in developing advertising and marketing plans, with three years of specific public sector advertising experience. Required services include account management, creative development, copywriting, earned media planning, social media management, and media placement services. The RFP mandates that contractors maintain in-house media buying capabilities across all Arkansas media markets and provide weekly status reporting, monthly leadership meetings, media flowchart monitoring, and post-campaign reports. Proposals must be submitted through the ARBuy eProcurement system by December 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM Central Time, with interviews scheduled between December 22, 2025, and January 2, 2026. The anticipated contract start date is March 1, 2026, with an initial one-year term and options to renew for up to six additional one-year terms.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must be authorized to do business in Arkansas and capable of providing a full suite of traditional and digital marketing services. All intellectual property, data, and deliverables created under the contract will become the exclusive property of the State upon contract expiration or termination. The pricing structure includes hourly rates for various services, with estimated annual hours ranging from 50 to 500 hours across different service categories. Media placement services and production commission are estimated at an average annual cost of $100,000 and $50,000, respectively. Pricing must be submitted in U.S. dollars and remain firm during the initial contract term, with potential price adjustments at renewal limited to 7% annually and a cumulative 10% cap over the contract term. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, contractors will be required to provide detailed pricing through the official solicitation price sheet, with the lowest-cost proposal being a key evaluation factor.