REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI) DHEWD 0000000003SL, 1: Student Financial Assistance Administrative Web-Based Platform

Background
The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (MDHEWD) is seeking information to modernize its student financial assistance administrative web-based platform. The current system, FAMOUS, is outdated and needs replacement to continue delivering over $150 million in financial aid to approximately 60,000 individuals annually.

The goal of this RFI is to gather data that will inform a future RFP for a more efficient and supportable platform that meets the needs of state agency staff, institutional staff, and Missouri students and families.

Work Details
The RFI seeks information on technology systems that can provide administrative services for state student financial aid programs. Key requirements include:
- An integrated database system supporting multiple programs;
- User interfaces for DHEWD staff, postsecondary education financial aid staff, high school staff, and students;
- Interfaces with data providers like ACT and the U.S. Department of Education;
- Processes for handling fund returns and sharing eligibility information;
- User role management;
- Comprehensive reporting capabilities;
- The ability to adapt to changing regulations.

Desirable features include electronic notifications to students and AI support.

Period of Performance
This RFI is issued on April 14, 2026, with responses due by April 28, 2026. The period of performance for the subsequent contract will be determined based on the final RFP issued after this RFI.

Place of Performance
The services are expected to be performed in Jefferson City, MO, where demonstrations may also take place either in-person or virtually.

Bidder Requirements
Respondents must provide non-proprietary information in their responses. There are no specific set-aside certifications or local requirements mentioned in this RFI.