Writing and Communication Program

The Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) is soliciting quotes under DQ 27-0158 for offender writing development services, with quotes due November 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time through bidnetdirect.com/cdoc. The solicitation specifies no set-aside, preference, or sole-source provision, and it lists Garfield County as the jurisdiction.

Scope covers writing labs of up to 12 sessions monthly across CDOC facilities, four communication courses, and publication support for a statewide quarterly newspaper, a creative arts magazine, and an annual anthology. Modification 1, posted November 9, 2026, is the most recent update. It sets initial-term release windows in February/March and May/June, with four annual issues per publication required only in renewal periods. It also states that physical printing and distribution bill separately under publication support per Exhibit D, and that Unbound Authors will copyright final publications as publisher after CDOC approval, with contributors retaining ownership of their writing and artwork. The modification leaves unresolved whether writing labs beyond 12 monthly sessions are compensated under the contract.

The anticipated start date is December 1, 2026, with an initial term through June 30, 2027. The contract allows up to four one-year renewals, not to exceed five years total, contingent on appropriations. Pricing must remain firm during the initial term and include all fees, though CDOC may permit annual increases not exceeding 2.5% per fiscal year. Award goes to the responsible bidder whose acceptable quote is most advantageous, with price as the primary consideration and sample quality and lead time also considered. A notice of intent to award is estimated for November 12, 2026.

Bidders must return Exhibit E, disclosing any services performed outside the United States or Colorado, and Exhibit F, a non-conflict certification. Awardees must register in CORE through Vendor Self Service, submit a certificate of insurance before execution, and complete an Enhanced Criminal Background Investigation within 30 days of award notification. Required coverage includes general liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence, protected information liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 general aggregate, and professional and crime coverage of $1,000,000 each where applicable. Carriers must hold an A.M. Best rating of A or better with a financial size of VII or better, and the State must be named additional insured on general liability. Personnel accessing facilities are subject to PREA compliance, background checks, and electronics restrictions.