Announcement type: Expression of Interest (EOI)
EOI issue date: April 8, 2024
Close of submission date: None. EOIs will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Submit application to: smallbiz@alexandriaecon.org
Introduction:
The Alexandria Economic Development Partnership’s (AEDP) Small Business & Entrepreneurship (SBE) division is seeking the services of for-profit and non-profit entities that can offer training, program support, and technical assistance to Alexandria-based entrepreneurs. AEDP’s SBE programs are designed to empower Alexandria-based entrepreneurs by equipping them with the resources and knowledge they need to succeed.
AEDP is issuing this Expression of Interest (EOI) for Business-to-Business Service Provider Contracts to solicit interest and identify partners that can help support AEDP’s mission to provide resources that help entrepreneurs overcome barriers and empower them to grow and thrive. Partnering with service providers will be critical as AEDP ramps up its offerings to meet existing gaps in the small business ecosystem.
EOI Main Objectives:
The primary objective of this EOI is for service providers to propose ideas for counseling sessions, classes, and workshops addressing the topics specified below. Additionally, AEDP welcomes creative proposals that extend beyond the mentioned topics. While most of our services are in English, we are also actively seeking counselors who can provide assistance in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, Pashtun, Urdu, Dari, Farsi, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean.
- Access to Capital, including Business Financial Management Basics, Financial Literacy, Financing Options, Credit Building, Strategic Planning, and Alternative Funding Sources.
- Basics of Business Operations: Business Planning and Development, Legal and Regulatory Compliance Guidance, Technology and Innovation, Taxes, Strategies for Growth & Exit, AI.
- Establishing a US presence for International Companies, including consultation on US tax law; immigration and visa services; US work culture and benefit requirements; US market strategy and trends
- Sales, Marketing, and Branding, including content marketing and SEO strategy, market research and data analytics, go-to-market strategy for online sales, in-store and e-commerce, and social media best practices and pitfalls
- Additional Income Streams, including part-time and passive income ventures for entrepreneurs, makers, artists, and resellers.
- Incubators and Accelerators.
Eligibility Criteria:
For-profit and non-profit entities with active business licenses are eligible to apply.
Criteria For Consideration:
EOIs will be evaluated based on their overall proposal, cost justification, alignment with program goals, past performance, and support for business growth.
Guidelines for Submitting Proposals:
- Provide the details below to smallbiz@alexandriaecon.org EOIs submitted via hand delivery, mail, or courier service will not be reviewed.
- Respond to the questions below:
- Provide an introductory overview and key aspects of the proposed counseling session/s, class/es, and/or workshop/s, including proposed class or workshop topics, proposed length and format of classes, and ideal target audience and industry/stage of businesses.
- Describe your team’s expertise and experience.
- Explain how your services would benefit Alexandria-based entrepreneurs.
- Provide a quote/budget proposal with clear justification. Submit hourly rates for counseling sessions and a flat fee for classes and workshops.
- Additional Uploads:
- Submit resumes, a capability statement that describes the applicant entity’s background, core competencies, and past performance, along with any other supporting documents.
- Submit a copy of your business license or non-profit status.
- Submit two professional references.
Submission Deadline:
There is no submission deadline. Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Selection and Award Process:
EOIs will be evaluated based on their overall proposal, budget justification, alignment with program goals, past performance, and support for business growth. Contracts will be awarded based on identified needs to ensure services align closely with the needs of Alexandria-based entrepreneurs.
Mandatory Documentation and Declarations for Eligibility Upon Award:
- Federal employee identification number (“EIN”)
- Active Business License
- Proof of commercial general liability insurance.
Important Legal Disclaimers:
- Applicants are advised to thoroughly review all instructions and requirements in the EOI document.
- AEDP retains the right to accept or reject proposals based on their adherence to instructions and alignment with program objectives. AEDP is not required to provide feedback or justification for applicants who are not selected.
- The availability of funding from AEDP determines the funding for this award. Submitting an EOI does not obligate AEDP to make an award.
- AEDP reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals as deemed in the organization’s best interest.
- AEDP reserves the right to request applicants to adjust their proposals. Request for adjustments does not obligate AEDP to make an award.
- EOIs must be submitted via email. AEDP will not be responsible for any costs incurred by applicants in the preparation of their EOIs. All such costs and expenses are the sole responsibility of the applicant.
- AEDP may issue addenda or amendments to the EOI or withdraw the EOI entirely.
- Award decisions may consider applicants’ past performance in managing previous contracts.
- If selected, successful applicants will enter into a contract with AEDP for the provision of services. AEDP may engage in negotiations with applicants, which may include adjustments to the funding amount or other aspects of the proposal.