RFP 25-3021 - Alternative Methodology

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has issued RFP 25-3021 to procure a comprehensive cost analysis and alternative methodology update for the state's subsidized child care reimbursement rates. The primary objective is to conduct an updated cost estimation model to inform California's Federal Fiscal Year 2028-2030 Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) State Plan. The contractor will be responsible for conducting surveys across all 58 California counties, including licensed child care centers, family child care homes, and license-exempt care providers. Key deliverables include a draft cost estimation report due February 1, 2027, and a final report due May 1, 2027, which must provide detailed results of the alternative methodology. Proposers must have a minimum of five years of full-time experience completing similar cost surveys or federal/state survey projects, possess a California business license, and maintain a principal place of business in the United States. The proposal submission deadline is January 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. PT, with questions due by November 25, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. PT. The evaluation process will score proposals based on background and experience (20 points), methodology (20 points), work plan (15 points), organizational structure and personnel resources (15 points), and cost (30 points).

The procurement includes specific set-aside and participation requirements for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE), with a mandatory 3% participation goal and potential incentive points ranging from 1-5% based on confirmed participation levels. A 5% bidding preference is available for certified Small Business Enterprises. The maximum contract value is $3,529,000, allocated across three fiscal years: $160,000 for FY 25/26, $2,823,200 for FY 26/27, and $545,800 for FY 27/28. Non-governmental proposers must submit an independent certified public accountant audit report not more than 12 months old. The contract will require extensive stakeholder engagement, including facilitating an alternative methodology advisory workgroup with quarterly virtual meetings and maintaining biweekly status meetings with CDSS. Proposers will need to demonstrate compliance with numerous state and federal requirements, including strict confidentiality and information security standards. The anticipated agreement term runs from June 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, with the start date contingent on approval by the Department of General Services.