MDAR BID-FY23- Agricultural Technical Assistance Provider Master List

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is seeking to establish a master list of Technical Assistance Providers (TAPs) to serve as independent contractors and provide assistance to individuals, businesses, and organizations involved in Massachusetts agriculture. The RFR (Request for Response) outlines the eligible service categories, including marketing, business planning, succession planning, technical assistance, and course instruction. Selected TAPs will be offered contracts for an initial 3-year term with two 3-year renewal options. The RFR is on a rolling basis, with applications accepted through January 31, 2031, and details allowable expenditures, deliverables, and invoicing requirements. There is no matching requirement, and the procurement is subject to the Massachusetts Small Business Purchasing Program, which gives preference to small businesses headquartered in the Commonwealth.

The RFR also includes Supplier Diversity Program requirements for bidders to commit a minimum of 1% of contract sales to diverse business partners certified or recognized by the state's Supplier Diversity Office. While the RFR does not specify any incumbent contractors, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Standard Contract Form outlines the terms and conditions for the technical assistance services, including the procurement and payment process, the Commonwealth's rights to intellectual property, and contractor certifications regarding compliance with various state and federal laws. The contract term is not specified, but it may be renewed or amended.