Title IV-E Consultant

The State of South Dakota's Department of Social Services is seeking a Title IV-E Consultant through a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Harding County, with the primary objective of completing initial Title IV-E determinations for State and Tribal Title IV-E agencies. The consultant will be responsible for bringing the agency current on pending files and maintaining up-to-date records, with a specific requirement to be physically present during the federal Title IV-E review scheduled from April 13-17, 2026, in Pierre, SD. Key deliverables include providing suggestions and examples for streamlining the Title IV-E determination process, assisting with information location during the federal review, and supporting the agency's compliance efforts. The RFP was published on September 25, 2025, with proposals due by November 6, 2025, and the anticipated contract period running from approximately January 1, 2026, to May 31, 2026. Evaluation criteria will focus on specialized expertise, technical competence, past performance, resources, and proposed project management techniques. Potential offerors may submit inquiries via email to Kirsten.Blachford@state.sd.us with the subject line "RFP17658" before the specified deadline, with responses to be posted on the state's e-procurement system and DSS website.

The RFP does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations, suggesting the opportunity is open to qualified consultants with relevant expertise in Title IV-E determinations. The contract allows for potential renewal for up to three additional one-year terms at the State's discretion, providing long-term opportunity for the selected contractor. While a specific budget range is not detailed, the document indicates that the total contract amount will be negotiated and will not exceed a predetermined amount, with funding subject to legislative appropriations and expenditure authority. The consultant will be responsible for their own expenses, with payment contingent upon satisfactory service completion. The State reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, maintaining flexibility in the selection process. Contractors must comply with various state certifications, including non-discrimination, debarment, and restrictions on boycotts. The opportunity appears designed to secure a highly qualified consultant capable of supporting the agency's Title IV-E compliance and review processes.