Indigenous Historian - Consultant

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan History Center, is seeking an Indigenous Historian consultant to provide specialized services for multiple projects over state fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The contract involves developing museum exhibits, educational materials, and public programs focusing on Michigan Native American history, with specific project scopes including permanent museum exhibits (1815-1865 redevelopment, Hartwick Pines Visitor Center, Gchi Mshiikenh Deh Minising/Heart of the Great Turtle Island), K-12 digital education resources, and public history initiatives. The total estimated work is 3,330 hours across these projects. Bidders must demonstrate extensive experience in Indigenous history research, museum exhibit development, non-traditional Indigenous history materials, school group instruction, Michigan learning standards knowledge, publication writing, and public presentations. The proposal evaluation will be conducted on a pass/fail basis, reviewing mandatory documents including the Vendor Questions Worksheet and Statement of Work. Key dates include a bidder questions deadline of November 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. EST, with answers posted by November 11, 2025, and a proposal submission deadline of November 14, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. EST. The anticipated contract start date is November 24, 2025, with expiration on September 30, 2027, and potential for two additional one-year renewal options.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders are required to submit a firm hourly rate for the entire contract term, with all costs, including travel expenses, to be reimbursed at current State of Michigan rates (as detailed in the attached Travel Rates document). The State reserves significant discretionary powers, including the right to disqualify proposals for failure to follow instructions, conduct background checks, request clarifications, and negotiate terms. Proposals will become public record immediately upon receipt, subject to Michigan's Freedom of Information Act. Liquidated damages of $500 plus $100 per day will apply for late or improper completion of contract activities. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the 3,330 estimated hours suggest a substantial contract value. All proposals must be submitted electronically through SIGMA VSS in a modifiable format, with a 30 MB file size limit per document. The contract allows for electronic submission and comprehensive state oversight of the consulting engagement.