Special Projects Related to Workforce Development Services

The County of Orange, through OC Community Resources (OCCR), is soliciting proposals for Special Projects Related to Workforce Development Services under RFP #012-2751004-CW. The procurement seeks qualified firms to provide services across four distinct areas: Business Development, Workforce Development (Youth and Adult Programs/Services), Innovations, and Consultancy. Applicants may propose for one or multiple service components, with a separate proposal required for each. The contract will have an initial 12-month term with potential for up to three one-year renewals contingent on performance and funding availability. Proposals must be typewritten, double-spaced, in Arial 12-point font, and not exceed 25 pages per service component. The RFP requires comprehensive details across six key sections: Proposal Introduction, Project Details/Scope of Services, Performance, Organizational Qualifications, Innovation, and Infrastructure. The non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for December 18, 2024, with proposals due by February 3, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Evaluation will focus on past performance, project impact, cost-effectiveness, and ability to enhance existing Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs.

The County encourages applications from veteran-owned, minority-owned, women-owned, and socially disadvantaged businesses. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, for-profit entities, educational institutions, and community-based organizations with a minimum of three years of experience. Organizations must demonstrate technical competence and ability to serve target populations effectively, with a focus on enhancing economic self-sufficiency for individuals facing employment barriers. The contract is structured as a cost-reimbursement agreement, requiring vendors to have sufficient financial capacity to manage project expenses upfront, with administrative and indirect costs capped at 10% of the total contract budget. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, funding will be allocated based on project needs and will be subject to approval by the Orange County Workforce Development Board and Board of Supervisors. The services will be delivered through two Workforce Solutions Centers in Brea and Laguna Niguel, targeting sectors like healthcare, IT, and advanced manufacturing. Applicants must provide documentation including SAM registration, D-U-N-S number, insurance, and federal compliance documentation.