Connect 313 is a city-wide, data-driven digital inclusion strategy that brings countless organizations together with the bold goal to make Detroit a national model for digital inclusion and ensure all Detroiters can access the digital world and the opportunity it brings.
The mission of Connect 313 is to put in place by 2024 the means for all Detroiters to have access to appropriate devices, internet connections, technical support and digital resources for improved learning, employment and wellbeing.
To achieve its mission, Connect 313 focuses on supporting the broader Detroit digital equity ecosystem by engaging in policy advocacy efforts, facilitating community governance and organizing to administer the Connect 313 Fund, and spearheading a robust data operation.
Digital Inclusion Week is an annual week of awareness, celebration, recognition and engagement of all things digital inclusion focused. This national event provides a stage for stakeholders and practitioners who focus on efforts to bridge the digital divide to share their progress, while also engaging members of the community who are being impacted by their efforts.
In its fourth year hosting Detroit Digital Inclusion Week (DIW2022), Connect 313 seeks to reach every core stakeholder, engage its residents and continue to solidify its position as the national model for digital inclusion efforts. Over five exciting days, Connect 313 will lead DIW2022 efforts by celebrating organizations and leaders who have made a difference in our community, educating local and national stakeholders on Connect 313 digital inclusion initiatives, activating partnerships and leading exciting activities to increase community engagement and connecting residents to information and resources.
Connect 313 will lead planning and managing logistics and content-specific needs for the broader framing of Digital Inclusion Week 2022, occurring Oct. 3-7. Connect 313 is seeking proposals from interested parties to curate and lead efforts for the youth engagement day during DIW2022 on Oct. 7. More details, such as location, will be communicated once a vendor is selected. Proposals that ensure school-aged youth are engaged, educated and empowered to explore the digital world will be highly prioritized.
The selected partner will develop a full day of programming that will excite and engage Detroit youth during DIW2022. Additionally, they will identify learning opportunities, solidify youth engagement strategies and identify partner organizations who can provide messaging support to ensure robust attendance from Detroit youth during the day.
Proposals will be accepted from individuals, organizations (for-profit or nonprofit), or other collaborative arrangements that:
Appropriate insurance coverage is required, including a minimum comprehensive liability limit not to be less than $500,000 and general liability insurance with a coverage limit of not less than $500,000.
Proposers shall have substantial experience with:
Proposers shall submit proposals electronically to info@connect313.org by 5 p.m. on Aug. 31. Inquiries regarding this RFP may be submitted to info@connect313.org no later than 3 p.m. on Aug. 30.
Proposals shall include, at a minimum, the following items:
Proposals meeting the above minimum qualifications will be evaluated by Connect 313 using the following criteria:
(50) Specialized experience in the type of work to be performed, specifically including work in an event of similar size and geographic location to Digital Inclusion Week.
(40) Qualifications and experience of the staff assigned by Proposer to perform these services.
(20) Quality of proposed approach/work plan.
(20) Quality of work samples.
(30) Familiarity with digital inclusion, youth engagement and technology-based education, and supporting non-profits.
(40) Availability and capability to perform the services described in this RFP.
(20) Overall cost of the contract.
(__) Interview (if conducted).
Total Maximum Points = 220
Proposals submitted from Detroit-based partners with youth engagement experience will have special consideration. Interviews may be requested prior to final selection. Awards will be made to the highest-ranked proposal according to the evaluation criteria. If contract negotiations are unsuccessful with the highest-ranked proposal, Connect 313 reserves the right to enter negotiations with the next highest-ranked proposal.
Connect 313 desires to enter into a professional services agreement, which includes all necessary DIW2022 youth engagement related initiatives, whether the services are specifically outlined in this RFP. The selected organization will be expected to sign a written agreement, which will incorporate this RFP and the awardee’s proposal. Negotiations shall be limited to terms Connect 313 chooses to negotiate, at Connect 313’s sole discretion. Connect 313 anticipates payment for services on a project milestone basis. However, Connect 313 will also consider alternative proposals. Connect 313 reserves the right to negotiate a compensation package that is fair and reasonable to Connect 313, as determined solely by Connect 313. It is anticipated that Connect 313 will enter a one year agreement, which thereafter may be extended upon written consent of both parties for an additional one year term.