Wyoming-Based Craft Beer Partner

The University of Wyoming and the State of Wyoming are seeking a Wyoming-based craft beer partner through a Request for Proposal (RFP) to develop two co-branded craft beer products. The primary objectives are to produce a state-branded craft beer featuring the Bucking Horse and Rider logo with Wyoming's red, white, and blue design, and a University of Wyoming craft beer in brown and gold potentially incorporating UW marks like Pistol Pete. Mandatory requirements for bidders include an active Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau permit, a valid Wyoming state license, and the capability to produce a minimum of fifty barrels of beer annually. The evaluation will be comprehensive, scoring proposals across nine criteria including company overview, distribution and sales plan, production capabilities, proposed brew and packaging, beer awards, brand integration strategy, and community engagement. Key dates include crafters' questions due by October 27, 2022, with proposal responses required by November 8, 2022, at 2:00 PM MDT. A tentative crafter interview and tasting is scheduled for December 9, 2022, with the full product rollout anticipated for Summer/Fall 2023.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract appears open to Wyoming-based craft breweries meeting the specified qualifications. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the document suggests potential in-venue sales opportunities through Wyoming Sports Properties, though current exclusive marketing agreements may limit direct marketing presence. The selected partner will collaborate on product design, packaging, and marketing strategy, with potential branding opportunities at events like Cheyenne Frontier Days and other Wyoming festivals. The agreement includes provisions for royalty payments, with a potential $250 royalty advance and quarterly sales reporting requirements. The licensing agreement will mandate commercial general liability insurance with minimum occurrence limits of $1,000,000 and aggregate limits of $2,000,000. The contract term is anticipated to be three years, with potential for two-year renewal increments, though specific financial terms and exact award value are not explicitly detailed in the provided documents.