Study Abroad Program in Japan: May 25, 2025-June 5, 2025

The University of Houston-Downtown is seeking proposals for a comprehensive study abroad program in Japan, scheduled for May 25-June 5, 2025. The Request for Proposal (RFP784-25-2402) solicits services for a 12-day educational travel experience involving 20 students and 2 faculty members across Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Required services include round-trip coach-class airfare with maximum one layover, 3-star or higher hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, 3-4 group dinners, English-speaking representatives, and complete ground transportation between cities and sites. Proposals are due January 14, 2025, at 3 PM CST, with a target price of $6,000 or less per participant. Evaluation criteria will comprehensively assess vendors based on professional connections in Japan (20 points), pricing (20 points), direct experience providing travel to Japan (15 points), overall study abroad travel experience (15 points), quality of tour plan (15 points), and references (15 points). Vendors are encouraged to suggest cost-reduction alternatives while maintaining program quality.

The procurement includes specific participation requirements for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), with a 9% HUB subcontracting goal. Vendors must submit a detailed HUB Subcontracting Plan and comply with Texas state certifications regarding non-discrimination and anti-boycott policies. Insurance requirements are stringent, mandating $1 million commercial general liability, $5 million professional liability, workers' compensation, and $1 million commercial automobile liability coverage. Respondents must be reputable companies with necessary experience and resources, capable of binding their organization legally. While no incumbent vendor is specified, the contract is contingent on University Board of Regents allocations and potential Texas State Legislature appropriations. The total program budget appears to be approximately $120,000 (20 participants at $6,000 maximum per participant), with flexibility for cost-effective proposals that meet the educational and logistical requirements of the study abroad program.