Sponsorship and Advertising Sales Services

The 32nd District Agricultural Association, operating as OC Fair & Event Center, is requesting proposals for comprehensive sponsorship and advertising sales services, with proposals due October 30, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. A 5% small business preference applies to certified small businesses, and DVBE incentive participation is available up to 5%.

The scope encompasses developing and executing sponsorship programs, prospecting and identifying potential sponsors, preparing customized proposals, negotiating sponsorship terms, coordinating benefit fulfillment, and providing performance reporting for a 150-acre multi-use venue in Costa Mesa hosting over 150 events annually and attracting 4.5 million visitors. The contractor must maintain a full-time on-site presence during June through August and remain available during all operating hours of the 23-day annual OC Fair held in July and August.

Compensation is commission-based across three categories: cash from new sponsors at a rate not to exceed a maximum established by the District, cash from existing multi-year sponsors capped at 10%, and budget-relieving trade at a rate not to exceed a maximum, with the trade component not to exceed 17% of total annual sales. Annual sales goals begin at $3 million with expected growth of 3% annually.

Bidders must demonstrate five years of relevant experience providing similar sales services for at least two comparable businesses and submit three client letters of recommendation, three financial reference letters, and current insurance certificates.

The contract runs from December 1, 2026 through November 30, 2028, with three one-year renewal options at the District's sole discretion. Board approval is anticipated for November 19, 2026. An optional walk-through is scheduled for October 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scale: company history and personnel (10 points), experience (25 points), ability to perform (25 points), presentation (10 points), and financial proposal (30 points). A pre-award audit of proposed costs may be conducted. Submissions must be electronic via wetransfer.com to RFP@ocfair.com.