Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF) Loan Referral Services

The State of Oregon, specifically Business Oregon, is seeking a contractor to provide Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF) Loan Referral Services across multiple jurisdictions including Lake County and Albany City. The procurement is a Request for Proposal (RFP) targeting an organization capable of administering comprehensive loan referral and support services for economic development projects. The selected vendor will be responsible for identifying potential borrowers, screening project feasibility, processing loan applications, providing technical assistance, and supporting workforce development, disaster recovery, and affordable workforce housing initiatives. The Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG) appears to be the primary proposer, with extensive experience in administering revolving loan funds and having previously managed $82.8 million in business funding across 544 businesses. Key deliverables include recruiting eligible participants, establishing grant agreements, awarding small business grants, providing technical assistance, and reporting program outcomes. The proposal requires detailed documentation including proposer information, reference checks, certification of business capabilities, and a responsibility inquiry. The posted date is July 10, 2024, with the proposal due on the same date, suggesting an expedited procurement process.

The procurement includes specific provisions for certified disadvantaged business participation, with a required Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan that ensures minority-owned, woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and emerging small businesses have equal opportunity to participate in potential subcontracting. The COBID (Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity) certification is a key component of the evaluation process. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the historical context suggests significant funding potential, with OCWCOG having previously managed millions in loan programs. The proposal emphasizes integration with existing economic development infrastructure, particularly focusing on leveraging both private and public financing mechanisms. Proposers must demonstrate financial stability, provide comprehensive business references, and show capability in managing complex loan referral and support services. The procurement appears designed to select a vendor with proven track records in community economic development, housing project management, and small business assistance programs.