Federal Government Relations

The City of Little Rock, Arkansas, through its Procurement Division, is seeking a Federal Government Relations services provider via a Request for Supplier Qualifications (RFSQ). The procurement aims to secure representation and advisory services for multiple local government entities, including the City of Little Rock, Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, Little Rock Port Authority, Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority, and Rock Region METRO. The selected vendor will provide strategic federal advocacy, focusing on securing legislative and funding opportunities across infrastructure, transportation, public safety, quality of life, and economic development domains. Vendors must possess a minimum of three years of federal government relations experience, maintain a Washington, D.C. presence at least 75% of the time, and demonstrate proven relationships with federal legislative and executive branch officials. The evaluation process involves a 1,000-point scoring system with weighted categories: Qualifications of Vendor (200 points), Past Relevant Experience (450 points), Understanding of Multiple Government Levels (200 points), and Availability/Task Prioritization (150 points), with a minimum score of 700 required to advance. Key procurement dates include vendor questions due by September 2, 2025, proposal submissions due September 8, 2025 at 10:00 AM, a bid opening Teams meeting at 10:15 AM that same day, and tentative proposal evaluation on September 22, 2025.

The procurement encourages participation from minority and women-owned businesses, referencing Arkansas Act 554 of 1977 and Act 1080 of 2017, which define minority and women-owned business classifications. Potential respondents must hold a valid Arkansas business license and provide three references from similar municipalities or local governmental entities. The contract will be awarded to the most qualified, responsive, and responsible vendor offering the best value, with an initial one-year term and potential for up to three additional one-year extensions upon mutual agreement. Vendors must complete mandatory certifications related to Israel Boycott Restriction (for contracts $1,000+), Illegal Immigrant Restriction (for contracts $25,000+), and Energy, Fossil Fuel, Firearms, and Ammunition Industries Boycott Restriction (for contracts $75,000+). While no specific budget range is listed, the comprehensive evaluation process suggests a significant and competitive procurement. Joint venture proposals are permitted and must adhere to specific documentation requirements, including a detailed joint venture agreement and minority/women-owned business certification status disclosure.