26-551HDA-LEGAL-B-51754 | Public Relations Firm Services Small Purchase

Solicitation 26-551HDA-LEGAL-B-51754 is a request for proposals for a public relations firm to provide strategic media and communication services for the Illinois Housing Development Authority. The primary objective is to enhance the agency's earned media presence through local, regional, and national outreach, the development of storytelling frameworks, and the securing of leadership visibility via speaking engagements and podcasts. Key deliverables include spokesperson training for leadership, crisis communications support, and the promotion of Illinois as a viable location for affordable housing developers. The vendor is required to provide weekly reporting on media impact and quarterly and annual performance cost analyses, with all press releases subject to review by the Governor's office. The contract has an initial term of one year, with a maximum potential duration of ten years. To be eligible, the vendor must maintain a Chicago-area presence and dedicate at least three full-time employees to the account. Compliance requirements are extensive, including the submission of Taxpayer Identification Number certifications and standard Illinois certifications regarding legal entity status, tax compliance, and educational loan defaults. The vendor must also maintain specific insurance coverages, including one million dollars per occurrence for general commercial liability and auto liability. All deliverables are considered work for hire, granting the State of Illinois exclusive ownership of the intellectual property. Payment is governed by the State Prompt Payment Act, and the contract is contingent upon the availability of funds from the Illinois General Assembly or federal sources.