New Hampshire Specific Economic Development Training Materials and Provision of Training Services

The New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs (DBEA) has issued Request for Proposal (RFP) DBEA 2024-07 seeking a vendor to develop comprehensive economic development training materials and provide training services specific to New Hampshire. The procurement targets the creation of a robust training program covering critical economic development domains including workforce development, placemaking, business financing, business attraction and retention, and community revitalization strategies. Key deliverables include a comprehensive reference book of training materials that can be updated and rebranded for future use, with flexibility for both in-person and virtual training delivery. The contract period is anticipated to run from approximately April 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, subject to approval and funding availability. Evaluation criteria will focus on vendor experience and qualifications, strategy and approach to the scope of work, creativity/innovation, and cost-effectiveness. The proposal submission deadline is February 26, 2024, at 4:00 PM EDT, with three respondents currently identified. Vendors must demonstrate prior experience in providing similar consulting services and will be expected to develop training content that supports current and future DBEA staff and key economic development partners.

The RFP does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types. The total project budget is capped at $185,000, representing the maximum funding available for the training materials development and service provision. No incumbent vendors are mentioned, and the document does not specify requirements for integration with existing infrastructure or technology. The DBEA has not previously conducted similar training initiatives and indicates openness to vendor-proposed approaches for training delivery and material design. While the RFP notes that no third-party certifications are expected, the agency is interested in exploring potential incentive structures for training participation. The procurement is open-ended in terms of vendor qualifications, focusing primarily on the ability to create New Hampshire-specific, adaptable economic development training content. The agency reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and will not allow a best and final offer process.