Intermediate RFP - Development of a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Advisory Committee

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is seeking proposals for the development of a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Advisory Committee through RFP #35138. The primary objective is to identify and address barriers that DBE certified firms encounter when competing for public sector work. The selected consultant will be responsible for facilitating the development of the advisory committee, managing project implementation, creating communication and outreach plans, and analyzing the committee's findings. Key deliverables include producing reports, developing external committee reports, and creating videos documenting DBE firms' experiences. The initial contract term is 12 months, with potential renewals for up to two additional years. The RFP requires proposers to submit a technical proposal limited to 13 pages, including project approach, qualifications, experience, and three project samples. Evaluation criteria will focus on the consultant's project approach, qualifications, experience, and the proposed project manager's credentials. Important dates include a virtual pre-proposal conference on March 16, 2022, from 8:00-9:00 AM Pacific Time, with proposals due by the Bid Opening Date specified in OregonBuys.

The procurement appears to have a strong emphasis on supporting Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, which aligns with the project's core mission. While the RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations, it demonstrates a commitment to supporting DBE firms through the advisory committee's work. ODOT will provide preference to proposals using recycled materials and Oregon-based supplies and services. The total contract amount is not to exceed $150,000, with labor costs broken down by job classification and fully burdened hourly billing rates. Proposers must submit a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form and comply with various legal and regulatory requirements, including non-discrimination policies and public records law. The procurement process allows for potential integration of existing DBE support infrastructure and aims to create a collaborative approach to addressing barriers faced by certified businesses. ODOT reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and will issue a Notice of Intent to Award approximately three weeks after the Bid Opening Date.