Tribal Liaison Services

The Washington State Auditor's Office (SAO) is issuing this competitive solicitation to procure a contractor to provide Tribal Liaison Services. The selected contractor will assist SAO in complying with state law (RCW 43.376) and engaging with Indian Tribes on relevant issues. Key responsibilities include providing technical support, acting as a liaison, organizing meetings, identifying Tribal leaders, offering training for SAO staff on effective communication with Tribes, and supporting audit teams on Tribal-related topics by reviewing documents for cultural relevance and facilitating connections with Tribal leaders. The contract term is 12 months with the option to extend up to 5 additional years. SAO anticipates hiring the contractor from October 2024 through September 2025. Bidders must respond to detailed performance requirements and evaluation factors related to their understanding of Washington Tribes, experience building government-Tribal relations, and knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.

The solicitation is open to all qualified bidders, with preferences given to Washington Small Businesses and Certified Veteran-Owned Businesses within the top 20% of bid scores, unless none of these businesses are responsible and responsive. Subcontractor use is permitted, and bidders must submit a Diverse Business Inclusion Plan detailing their anticipated small/veteran/diverse business participation goals, though no minimum is required. The total potential contract value is not specified, but SAO estimates purchasing 200-400 hours of services per year. Pricing will be on an hourly rate basis, with reimbursement for necessary travel per state guidelines.