DCEO -Tourism Public Relations RFP

Background
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Office of Tourism (IOT) is seeking a full-service public relations firm to collaborate in planning and executing public relations programs that promote Illinois as a business and leisure tourism destination.

The mission of the IOT is to manage tourism industry efforts that yield sustainable quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents.

Work Details
The selected public relations firm will be responsible for:
- Developing and executing public relations plans that include regional, national, and international media relations.
- Managing special events, crisis communications, reputation/brand management, media outreach, and social media management.
- Collaborating with industry partners such as convention bureaus, hotel associations, and economic development organizations.
- Providing ongoing media relations support, strategic communication planning, and reporting on public relations results.
- Creating annual communication plans and work plans in consultation with DCEO IOT.
- Managing travel trade programming domestically and internationally to enhance promotional opportunities for Illinois.

Period of Performance
The contract will commence on July 1, 2025, or upon execution, whichever is later, and will end on June 30, 2030. The total term of the contract may not exceed ten years including any renewal terms.

Place of Performance
The services will primarily be performed within the State of Illinois, particularly in areas relevant to tourism promotion.