MPA-490 OE Private Investigation Services

The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) has issued a Master Price Agreement (MPA) solicitation (OET22001518) seeking qualified individuals or firms to provide private investigation services across the state. The primary scope includes conducting investigations related to educator misconduct, human resource matters, and other agency investigatory processes. Vendors must be capable of supporting comprehensive investigations with detailed reporting and professional expertise. The solicitation opened on June 22, 2022, with proposals due by July 26, 2022, and a vendor Q&A period running from June 22 to July 7, 2022. Evaluation criteria will focus on technical qualifications, with vendors being assessed on their investigative capabilities, experience, and ability to meet complex organizational needs. The initial contract period will run from the issuance of purchase orders through June 30, 2025, with options to renew for two additional 12-month periods based on vendor performance and funding availability. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the Ocean State Procures system, with extensive insurance requirements including $1 million commercial general liability, $2 million professional liability, and $5 million cyber/privacy coverage.

The solicitation includes significant provisions for minority and women-owned business participation, requiring a minimum of 10% of the total contract value to be awarded to certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and Women Business Enterprises (WBEs). Vendors must submit an MBE Utilization Plan and comply with Rhode Island's affirmative action and non-discrimination policies. The MPA has statewide applicability, allowing usage by state agencies, quasi-governmental organizations, municipalities, and legislative and judicial branches. When specific projects arise, agencies will conduct mini-bids among the qualified vendors, with a requirement to obtain at least one quote from a certified MBE/WBE/Veteran-owned Business Enterprise vendor. A 1% contract administrative fee will be assessed on all purchase orders issued under the agreement. While no specific award value is explicitly stated, the open-ended nature of the MPA suggests flexibility in project scoping and potential for multiple awards. Vendors must be registered in the Ocean State Procures system and maintain all necessary licenses and certifications to be eligible for consideration.