Ethnically Diverse Business Community COVID-19 Response Assessment

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is seeking bids from vendors to conduct a comprehensive assessment of economic injury and challenges faced by micro- and diverse-owned businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The procurement requires a vendor to create a best practice framework for assessing obstacles experienced by these businesses, develop strategic recommendations to increase capacity and sustainability, and identify communication barriers within diverse-owned microbusiness communities. Key deliverables include a final report with implementation tactics that addresses business variations across Wisconsin, considering differences in location, diversity type, culture, and language. Bid submissions are due by August 31, 2021, and must be sent to Mary Gage at mary.gage@wedc.org. Vendors must provide documentation demonstrating their ability to deliver the outlined services, including a detailed technical approach, project timeline, client references, and cost proposals in both hourly and fixed-cost formats. WEDC will evaluate vendors based on their ability to meet requirements, relevant experience, and cost proposal, with the right to review vendor websites as part of the selection process.

The procurement appears to be open to a wide range of vendors, with a specific focus on firms capable of conducting in-depth assessments of micro- and diverse-owned businesses, including those owned by ethnically diverse populations, veterans, women, and LGBTQ individuals. While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned, the scope suggests a preference for vendors with expertise in diverse business communities and translation services. Vendors offering translation capabilities are encouraged to include relevant experience and cost quotes. The request does not specify a contract value or budget range, nor does it detail incumbent vendors or existing technological infrastructure. Confidentiality is a key requirement, with vendors expected to maintain strict privacy regarding WEDC and employee information. WEDC will be responsible for ensuring the final assessment report is accessible and can be translated for all participating organizations.