25-0102 Media Planning and Buying Services and Strategic Marketing Support

Background
The City of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit qualified firms to provide Media Planning and Buying Services and Strategic Marketing Support. The City aims to enhance its communication efforts, recruitment initiatives, and overall public engagement through strategic partnerships. The Communications Team engages in paid advertising campaigns with a staff of approximately 1,359 full-time equivalent positions and 500 part-time equivalent positions. They seek innovative solutions from experienced firms.

Work Details
The contract includes two main components:

1. **Media Planning and Buying Services:**
- Develop comprehensive media plans for recruitment and strategic campaigns with budgets of $10,000 or more.
- Purchase various media types including Out-of-Home (billboards, transit), audio (network, satellite, internet), online (display ads), social media, and print.
- Negotiate new media placements and communicate deadlines to the Communications Team.
- Secure digital billboard placements for real-time emergency communications.
- Provide regular reporting on campaign performance with recommendations for adjustments.
- Attend planning meetings and provide updates during campaign launches.
- Include case studies documenting results from campaigns with budgets ranging from $10,000 to $150,000.

2. **Strategic Marketing Support:**
- Act as a trusted advisor to the Communications Team on marketing best practices.
- Ensure proper installation of Google Analytics tracking across city websites and social properties.
- Audit city websites and provide monthly reports on trends and opportunities.
- Facilitate strategic discussions to identify marketing opportunities.
- Conduct internal training on digital marketing best practices for the Communications Team.
- Include case studies documenting results from retainer clients.

Period of Performance
The initial contract term is anticipated to last for two years with options for three additional one-year extensions.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Bidder Requirements
Firms must be actively registered with SAMS (Service for Award Management) and comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. The City encourages participation from Minority/Women Business Enterprises (M/WBE) and requires affirmative steps to utilize these businesses when possible.