DHS/Evaluate Early Childhood Consultation System

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking a qualified contractor to evaluate the state's Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (ECMHC) system through a Request for Proposals (RFP). The project requires a comprehensive evaluation of consultation programs across multiple early childhood provider settings, including child care, school-based, family friend and neighbor, follow-along public health, and other early childhood environments. The successful contractor must design a robust methodology to analyze both quantitative and qualitative data, produce regular evaluation reports, and provide insights into the system's effectiveness. Specific deliverables include developing data collection methods, conducting analyses every six months, and presenting periodic comprehensive reports. Responders must demonstrate at least 7 years of combined experience in evaluation research, data utilization, and systems recommendation, with preferred expertise in Minnesota's specific ECMHC system. The RFP requires integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles throughout the proposal. Key deadlines include a responders' conference on March 26, 2024, and a proposal submission deadline of April 9, 2024, at 11:59 pm CST, with proposals to be evaluated using a detailed scoring criteria that emphasizes technical approach, organizational qualifications, and proposed work plan.

The RFP does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises or restricted respondent types. The contract will be awarded to a single contractor, with an anticipated contract term from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026, and potential extensions up to a total of five years. The total contract value is estimated at $300,000, with funding allocations of $149,881 in fiscal year 2025 and $150,000 in fiscal year 2026, contingent upon federal fund availability. No incumbent vendor is specifically mentioned in the documentation. The contract includes standard provisions for accessibility, invoicing, payment, and compliance with state requirements. Responders must provide separate budgets for the two-year period and can utilize their federally negotiated indirect cost rates. The State of Minnesota reserves the right to make multiple awards and negotiate contract terms with the selected respondent(s), suggesting flexibility in the procurement process.