Exempt-IFA- Acacia Financial- FY27

The Illinois Finance Authority is soliciting proposals for financial advisory services under a sole-source contract with Acacia Financial Group, with proposals due June 11, 2026. This is an exempt procurement — the IFA is exercising a sole-source award authority rather than conducting competitive procurement.

Acacia Financial Group will provide comprehensive financial advisory services supporting the IFA's mission, including strategic program development, financial product refinement, market research, financing evaluation and structuring, creditworthiness analysis, bond fair market value assessment, loan portfolio evaluation, and marketing support. Services include working with executive leadership on strategic initiatives, reviewing proposed financings and new programs, attending board and committee meetings, coordinating with credit enhancement providers and rating agencies, preparing financial models, evaluating service provider performance, and delivering ad hoc technical support to IFA staff and the Governor's Office of Management and Budget. Deliverables and milestones will be determined through periodic assignments by the IFA.

The contract term runs July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with no renewal options specified. The estimated contract value is $200,000 not to exceed, with pricing based on Acacia Financial Group's hourly rates. Work is performed in Chicago, Illinois. No subcontractors are permitted. The contract is funded through locally held funds of the Illinois Finance Authority and is subject to appropriation availability and the Illinois Prompt Payment Act.

The vendor must maintain general commercial liability insurance of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million annual aggregate, auto liability coverage of $1 million per occurrence, and workers' compensation insurance as required by law. The IFA may terminate for convenience with thirty days' written notice or for cause immediately if performance is unsatisfactory. Invoices must be submitted by July 31 of each fiscal year for work performed through June 30.