Washington State Magazine Advertising Services

Washington State University is requesting proposals for advertising consulting services to manage advertising sales and revenue generation for Washington State Magazine, with proposals due July 17, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time and a question-and-answer period closing June 23, 2026.

The scope covers advertising sales consulting for a publication distributed to more than 150,000 readers across the United States in three annual print issues (January, May, and August). The primary objective is to increase advertising revenue through proactive print advertising sales, with optional separate pricing for digital advertising services. Minimum qualifications require eligibility to contract with a Washington state agency, capability for remote service delivery, and experience providing advertising sales consulting for magazines or similar publications. Preferred qualifications include existing contracts in higher education or Pacific Northwest markets, at least five years of firm-level experience with similarly sized publications, and demonstrated project management practices.

The compensation model is strictly commission-based with no guarantees or minimum payments, calculated as a percentage of gross advertising revenue based on an estimated first-year advertising budget of $65,000. Respondents propose commission rates for print advertising, digital advertising, or bundled offerings, plus any additional fees and pass-through costs. WSU retains direct management of all advertiser invoicing and collections. Billing is progress-based with no advance payments permitted.

The initial contract term is approximately one year with options for five one-year renewals at WSU's discretion. Proposals are evaluated on qualifications and preferred qualifications (20 points), client list and references (15 points), plan of approach and timeline (30 points), and print commission rate (35 points). Proposals must include a completed contractor information form, certifications and assurances (including Washington wage law compliance and non-debarment status), and fee sheet with renewal-year pricing information.