2024 Commissioned Research Services Vendor of Record Refresh

The Government of Ontario, through Supply Ontario, has issued a Request for Bids for the 2024 Commissioned Research Services Vendor of Record Refresh. This procurement aims to establish a Vendor of Record based on technical merit to provide essential research and data services. The scope of work is divided into three primary categories: Quantitative Research, which includes large-scale data collection through online, telephone, and mixed methodologies; Qualitative Research, involving professionally moderated sessions such as focus groups, in-depth interviews, and ethnographic studies; and Data Services, focusing on the analysis and interpretation of aggregated data through advanced statistical and geo-demographic techniques. These services are intended to gather public input and business intelligence to inform government policies, programs, and strategic initiatives. The evaluation process follows a two-stage approach, beginning with a pass/fail review of mandatory eligibility requirements and the form of offer, followed by a scored technical response evaluation. Bidders are evaluated based on their expertise in one or more of the specified research categories, with scoring factors including ownership status, where Ontario-owned companies receive the highest points. Bidders must also indicate their local staffing presence and data storage locations. Compliance with various regulatory and safety standards is mandatory, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act, tax compliance, and accessibility standards under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Submissions must be made via the Ontario Tenders Portal by the deadline of October 21, 2026, adhering to strict formatting requirements for narrative responses and case studies.