Refugee Employment and Skills Enhancement Training (RESET) Program

The Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants is soliciting Refugee Employment and Skills Enhancement Training (RESET) Program services through an RFR (File No. FY26-ORI-04), with proposals due July 31, 2026 and questions due July 17, 2026. The RFR seeks multiple contract awards to qualified bidders with demonstrated experience in integrated employment, ESOL/VESOL, and vocational skills training for refugee populations across Essex, Middlesex, Suffolk, Worcester, Plymouth, Bristol, and Hampden Counties. Special consideration is given to established Refugee Employment Services providers with positive employment outcomes and in-house vocational/occupational training capability during Federal Fiscal Years 2024–2026; the RFR is not intended for organizations developing such services for the first time.

All funding is 100% federal dollars from the Office of Refugee Resettlement via Refugee Social Services formula funding. Anticipated awards range from $50,000 to $250,000 per contract, contingent upon federal funding availability. The initial contract period is one year with up to four additional one-year renewal options through September 30, 2031, commencing October 1, 2026. Administrative costs are capped at 20% of the proposed budget.

Core services must integrate ESOL/VESOL instruction, employment and employability services, and workforce training to support economic self-sufficiency. At least 80% of services must be delivered in-person, except during declared state or federal emergencies. No bidders' conference will be held. Responses are limited to two files and must be submitted electronically via COMMBUYS by 5:00 p.m. on July 31, 2026.

Bidders must obtain a DUNS number and maintain active registration in COMMBUYS before contract execution. The Supplier Diversity Program applies to contracts with estimated annual value exceeding $250,000, requiring commitment of at least 1% of Commonwealth contract revenue toward certified diverse business enterprises. All contractors must complete qualification submissions addressing financial and administrative capability, federal employer identification, organizational governance, and relevant certifications. Standard Commonwealth contract terms govern the relationship, including Electronic Funds Transfer payment, 45-day payment processing, and termination provisions with 45 days' notice for breach and 60 days' notice for termination without cause.