RFP-25-016 strategic planning consultant

The California Arts Council is requesting proposals for a strategic planning consultant under RFP-25-016, with proposals due June 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM PST and questions due June 11, 2026. The RFP carries a 5% Small Business preference for California Certified Small Businesses or non-small businesses committing 25% certified small business subcontractor participation, and optional DVBE incentive participation ranging from 1 to 5% based on confirmed participation levels.

The scope requires developing a comprehensive five- to seven-year strategic plan to replace the CAC's current framework expiring in 2027, mandated by California Government Code 11816 and the National Endowment for the Arts state arts agency partnership. Deliverables include background research, facilitated focus groups and listening sessions with state-local partners, grantees, applicants, and Council members, staff workshop design and delivery, and a final strategic plan document with performance metrics, implementation strategies, and PowerPoint presentations. The consultant must demonstrate deep knowledge of California's arts and culture ecosystem, government agency experience, demonstrated commitment to equity, research synthesis capability, valid California driver's license, and a California business license or certificate of standing.

Eligible bidders are California-based independent contractors, individuals, sole proprietors, partnerships, California Certified Small Businesses, Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, 501(c)(3) organizations, private for-profit organizations, and joint powers agreements. The initial contract value is $49,999, with authority to amend the agreement to add up to $40,001 in additional funds, bringing the maximum potential contract value to $90,000. The contract term runs from July 2, 2026 through May 2, 2027.

Evaluation occurs in three phases: Phase One screens for administrative compliance and responsiveness (pass/fail), Phase Two scores technical proposals at a maximum 450 points across criteria including project approach, team experience, alignment with equity and human-centered values, and realistic resource allocation, and Phase Three awards up to 30 points to the lowest-cost bidder. All proposals must be submitted as non-editable PDFs to Procurement@arts.ca.gov with cost proposals in Excel format. Required insurance includes Commercial General Liability ($1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate), Professional Liability ($1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate), and Workers' Compensation coverage with the State named as additional insured. Addendum #1 issued June 9, 2026 updated Key Action Dates. The Notice of Intent to Award is scheduled for June 24, 2026, with a protest period through July 1, 2026 and contract award July 2, 2026.