Statewide Science and Infrastructure Planning

The South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR), acting on behalf of the South Dakota EPSCoR program, is seeking a contractor to develop a comprehensive long-term strategic plan for enhancing research and development capacity across the state. The primary objective is to produce a detailed roadmap that will guide statewide strategies for securing funding through the NSF EPSCoR E-CORE RII and E-RISE RII programs. The contractor will be responsible for engaging six public universities, tribal colleges, private colleges, the EPSCoR jurisdictional steering committee, business leaders, and government officials in the planning process. Key deliverables include a strategic plan that outlines methods for growing research infrastructure, identifying funding opportunities, and developing collaborative research initiatives. The RFP (#23RFP9294) requires potential offerors to submit comprehensive proposals that include all-inclusive costs covering travel, lodging, and associated expenses. Proposals must be submitted by December 22, 2023, with an anticipated award decision and contract negotiation scheduled for January 16, 2024. Interested parties may submit inquiries via email to Kinchel.Doerner@sdbor.edu, with all questions and responses to be posted on the state's e-procurement system.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Multiple cost proposals are permitted, allowing vendors to present various approaches to meeting the contract requirements. While specific budget ranges are not detailed in the provided documentation, the contract length will be negotiated with the selected vendor. The scope of work covers Minnehaha County and extends statewide, involving multiple educational institutions and stakeholders. No information is provided about incumbent vendors or existing technological infrastructure that would require integration. The proposal emphasizes a comprehensive approach to research planning that involves collaboration across multiple educational and governmental entities. Potential vendors should be prepared to demonstrate expertise in research infrastructure development, strategic planning, and funding acquisition strategies specific to scientific and technological research environments.