Indian Craft Shop Operations IA25SS0001

Background
Established in 1938, the Indian Craft Shop at the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has served as a premier venue for showcasing and selling authentic American Indian and Alaska Native arts and crafts.

The current operator, Guest Services Inc., will cease operations on June 6, 2025. Indian Affairs is issuing this Request for Information (RFI) to gather input from qualified entities interested in operating the Shop under a concession contract. Following initial feedback, Indian Affairs anticipates advertising a solicitation that includes a formal request for proposal (RFP) to operate the Shop.

Work Details
The selected concessionaire will be responsible for managing the onsite and virtual retail operations of the Shop, with a commitment to the promotion and sale of authentic American Indian arts and crafts.

All activities must be conducted in compliance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 (IACA) and relevant DOI policies. The Shop must be operated in full compliance with IACA, DOI policies, and historic preservation standards. Preference will be given to Indian-owned businesses or organizations under the Buy Indian Act and DOI policy.

The concessionaire is expected to allocate resources for quarterly cultural events and exhibitions, promote cultural significance through educational engagement, develop a marketing plan to attract diverse audiences, and maintain synchronized inventory across online and in-person platforms.

Period of Performance
The period of performance will begin after the current operator ceases operations on June 6, 2025, continuing as determined by the future contract terms.

Place of Performance
1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC