Business and Marketing Consultant

Background
Arkansas State University, under the policies of the Board of Trustees, is seeking qualifications from experienced marketing firms to develop a revenue-generating business model and comprehensive marketing plan for the A-State Innovation System. The goal is to enhance brand recognition, create a sustainable business plan, and expand the client base for A-State Innovate, a program dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in Northeast Arkansas.

A-State Innovate supports entrepreneurs and industrial partners from ideation to commercialization by providing resources for innovation, start-up support, technology transfer, and strategic partnerships.

Work Details
The selected firm will provide the following services:

1. Revenue-Generating Business Model: Conduct market analysis to identify revenue opportunities (fee-based services, sponsorships, grants), develop a sustainable business model aligned with A-State Innovate’s mission, identify key performance indicators (KPIs) for financial success and program impact, and provide recommendations for staffing and operational adjustments.

2. Marketing Plan: Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to enhance brand recognition, create targeted campaigns for entrepreneurs and industrial partners, design promotional materials (brochures, digital content), propose digital marketing strategies (social media, SEO), promote events/workshops hosted by A-State Innovate, and identify media outreach opportunities.

3. Strategic Partnerships: Identify potential partners (businesses, universities) to expand reach and develop frameworks for maintaining partnerships that support program goals.

4. Community Engagement: Create plans to increase engagement with local entrepreneurs and businesses, propose initiatives to position A-State Innovate as an innovation hub in Northeast Arkansas, and develop metrics for evaluating community impact.

Period of Performance
The project is expected to be completed by September 30, 2025.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed in Northeast Arkansas.

Bidder Requirements
The ideal firm must demonstrate proven experience in developing revenue-generating business models for non-profits or economic development programs; expertise in creating marketing plans for entrepreneurship initiatives; knowledge of the Northeast Arkansas region; strong capabilities in digital marketing; and experience in fostering strategic partnerships.