WSAC Notice of RFI - Marketing Services

The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for marketing and outreach services related to the Washington Grant for Apprenticeships (WGA), targeting comprehensive marketing strategies across Washington State, with a particular focus on eastern Washington. The RFI seeks vendors with expertise in apprenticeship marketing and outreach programs to help expand access to apprenticeship opportunities. Vendors must submit detailed capability statements addressing 13 specific questions covering marketing techniques, industry changes, technology integration, service delivery approaches, and customer service capabilities. The solicitation requires respondents to provide insights into marketing approaches for both eastern and western regions of the state, with a current program supporting approximately 1,400 apprentices through 36 sponsors as of December 31, 2024. Responses must be submitted by February 7, 2025, and all submitted information will become a public record under Chapter 42.56 RCW. The RFI emphasizes detailed narrative responses over visual samples and welcomes vendors with both apprenticeship-specific marketing experience and general marketing expertise. All vendor communications must be directed to RFI Coordinator Mark Vessey.

The RFI does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations, indicating that a broad range of marketing vendors can participate. No incumbent vendors are identified, and no specific budget range or award value is disclosed in the documentation. The agency is explicitly clear that responding to the RFI is not mandatory for participation in future solicitations and that WSAC is not obligated to award any contracts. Vendors must provide details about their insurance coverage and typical industry fee structures for marketing and outreach services. The solicitation covers jurisdictions across Washington State, including both county and city levels, with a comprehensive list of 42 counties and numerous cities and census-designated places. Vendors are expected to demonstrate their capabilities in developing marketing strategies that can potentially increase apprenticeship participation, though specific goals or metrics have not been established by WSAC at this stage of the procurement process.