Milwaukee Public Library Fundraising Feasibility Assessment

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) is seeking a qualified consulting firm to conduct a comprehensive fundraising assessment and Capital Campaign feasibility study through Request for Proposal (RFP) No. MPL-25-011. The primary objective is to evaluate the library's current fundraising capacity and develop a strategic approach for a major Capital Campaign focused on renovating the historic Central Library. The study will require a detailed analysis of the library's two existing fundraising entities: the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation and the Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library, with goals of identifying potential major gift prospects and corporate funding opportunities. Proposals are due by 4:00 PM CST on December 10, 2025, and will be submitted through the Bonfire platform. The evaluation will be based on six key criteria: technical experience (25%), methodology (20%), cost (20%), qualifications (25%), references (10%), and potential Small Business Enterprise (SBE) or Local Business Enterprise (LBE) status (additional 5%). Proposers are required to submit a comprehensive proposal limited to 15 single-sided pages, including firm information, project work plan, key personnel details, references, and a detailed cost proposal.

The procurement opportunity includes several set-aside and compliance requirements that may impact bidder eligibility. Contractors must complete the Socially Responsible Contractors (SRC) Affidavit, demonstrating commitment to eliminating employment barriers through specific social responsibility programs. Additionally, local businesses can receive a bid incentive if their proposal does not exceed the lowest bid by more than 5%, with an extra 5% of points in RFP evaluations. Bidders must also provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including Worker's Compensation, Commercial General Liability, Automobile Liability, and Professional Liability insurance with specific minimum coverage amounts. Unique compliance documents include a Non-Collusion Affidavit, Slavery Disclosure Affidavit, and a Contractor Compliance Plan promoting participation of Small, Minority, and Women Business Enterprises. While no specific budget range was explicitly stated in the documents, the project involves a significant capital campaign for library renovation, suggesting a substantial potential contract value for the selected consulting firm.