Maryland Mediators' 2026 Conference

The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) in Maryland, specifically through the Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO), is seeking proposals to host the 2026 Maryland Mediators Convention on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The procurement is for a facility located in northern Prince George's County, northern Anne Arundel County, or southern Howard County capable of accommodating 200-300 attendees. Required deliverables include a large plenary space, multiple breakout rooms, registration area, and exhibitor space, with specific audiovisual equipment and accessibility requirements. The event will run from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM EDT and necessitate comprehensive catering services including breakfast, lunch, and snack breaks with provisions for various dietary needs. Proposals must be submitted through the Procurement Portal or via email by November 13, 2025, with evaluation criteria prioritizing technical merit and price. Offerors must provide a comprehensive proposal including an addenda acknowledgment, transmittal letter, company profile, references, technical response, and pricing details. The contract term will run from the date of issuance until project completion or June 30, 2026, whichever occurs first.

Potential vendors must be registered with the Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) and not in arrears on state obligations. The solicitation allows for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) certifications, potentially providing advantages to qualifying businesses. A Non-Disclosure Agreement is required, with strict confidentiality provisions including potential liquidated damages of $1,000 per unauthorized disclosure. The bid form includes a rate card with per-person and per-day pricing, with meal costs capped by Maryland Courts' per diem rates. Shortlisted offerors will be invited for an on-site walkthrough to provide further clarification on their proposals. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the AOC prefers venues that can offer discounted guest room rates if accommodations are available. Though no explicit budget range is provided, the comprehensive requirements suggest a substantial contract value for the one-day conference.