Conference Services

The Massachusetts Probation Service is soliciting proposals for a conference facility to host a two-day professional development event on consecutive weekdays in late winter or spring 2027. The selected vendor must provide a venue capable of accommodating up to 900 attendees per day, featuring one large plenary room with clear sightlines, at least four breakout spaces for up to 175 people each, and dedicated areas for registration and private emergency conversations. Required services include full audiovisual capabilities such as podiums, microphones, projectors, and internet access, as well as comprehensive catering consisting of continental breakfast, mid-morning refreshments, lunch, and mid-afternoon snacks. The procurement process requires a two-volume submission via COMMBUYS, consisting of a technical response and a separate pricing proposal, with a deadline of October 12, 2026. Evaluation is based on a 50 percent weight for the technical response and 50 percent for the implementation plan, with pricing evaluated in a final phase to determine the best overall economic value. The contract includes a two-day initial term with the possibility of four optional one-year renewals. Mandatory requirements for bidders include the submission of a Supplier Diversity Program plan, adherence to a strict no-contact policy during the evaluation period, and agreement to standard Commonwealth of Massachusetts terms and conditions, including tax-exempt status for the Trial Court.