IFB #C25-33090 Marketing and Communication Consulting Services

Background
The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is seeking a marketing and communications strategy package that aligns with its mission and distinguishes its services from other state programs such as physical rehabilitation, substance use treatment, and corrections. This contract aims to enhance public awareness and brand perception of the department's Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Work Details
The consultant will provide marketing and communication services including strategic planning, community engagement, creative design, public relations, and other related services. Deliverables are divided into three phases:

Phase 1: Discovery and Strategy (October 1, 2025 - January 31, 2026)
- Conduct market research through surveys, interviews, and focus groups to assess public awareness and brand perception. Deliver a report including SWOT analysis and recommendations.
- Draft a brand and communication strategy outlining messaging, tone, voice, and stakeholder engagement framework.
- Deliver a comprehensive finalized brand strategy document integrating brand positioning, launch plan, messaging framework, success metrics, and implementation checklist.

Phase 2: Brand Identity Development (February 1, 2026 - May 31, 2026)
- Develop brand names, logos, taglines with rationale and availability summary.
- Present logo concepts for stakeholder feedback; refine based on feedback.
- Finalize logo design with a cohesive visual identity package including color palette and typography suitable for print/digital media. Ensure accessibility compliance (ADA).
- Design small-format logo versions for digital platforms; provide accessible email signature designs.

Phase 3: Campaign and Public Awareness Strategy (June 1, 2026 - September 30, 2026)
- Provide a written campaign strategy outlining target audiences and performance indicators.
- Develop multimedia campaign concepts; design standardized internal templates for staff communications.
- Create a stakeholder communications toolkit; develop a social media campaign strategy.
- Prepare a campaign summary report with metrics; produce an accessible brand video summarizing the rebrand purpose.

Period of Performance
The contract period is from October 1, 2025 or upon DGS approval through September 30, 2026.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed in California.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must comply with several requirements including:
1) Business Certifications: Must be licensed to do business in California. A business license from the city/county where headquartered is required at bid opening.
2) Insurance: Proof of insurance certificates for Commercial General Liability ($1 million/$2 million), Automobile Liability (if applicable), and Workers' Compensation ($1 million).
3) Prohibition on Tax Delinquency: Contractors cannot be on the list of the top 500 tax delinquencies.
4) Federal Debarment Certification: Must certify no federal debarment or suspension.
5) Compliance with Civil Rights Laws: Certification of compliance with the Unruh Civil Rights Act and Fair Employment & Housing Act if contracts exceed $100k.
6) Generative Artificial Intelligence Disclosure: Notify if GenAI will be used in deliverables.
7) Additional Contractor Requirements include experience in public sector marketing/communications and submission of references.