Focus Group Research Services

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) is soliciting proposals for comprehensive focus group research services to assess public attitudes across California toward cell and gene therapy, the value and role of research funding, and levels of trust, concern, and understanding within diverse communities. The work must be conducted throughout the state, with specific requirements to include focus groups in Northern California, Southern California, the Central Valley, the Inland Empire, and rural regions, ensuring representation from lower-income or under-resourced communities and at least one Spanish-language session. The selected contractor must deliver a detailed research plan, execute all focus groups using qualified and bilingual moderators, provide a final comprehensive report with an executive summary, demographic breakdown, anonymized quotes, actionable messaging recommendations, and a presentation to CIRM leadership. The contract period runs from the date of execution through June 30, 2027, with work to begin as soon as possible after award, and the total budget for the engagement is capped at $60,000, with no individual event exceeding $500,000. The research must meet rigorous standards for methodological quality, participant diversity, clarity of reporting, and adherence to timelines, with performance evaluated on these criteria. Proposals must be submitted as a signed PDF by July 31, 2026, to businessservices@cirm.ca.gov, and must include detailed evidence of past experience conducting similar public sentiment research, qualifications of proposed personnel, comparable client projects completed in the last three years, at least three references, a clear project timeline, and a fully itemized cost breakdown aligned with the scope of work. Contractors must comply with California state laws, including non-discrimination mandates under Government Code sections 12990 and 11135, and are prohibited from having any current contractual relationship with any governmental entity. All work is subject to the State of California’s legal framework, with the contract governed by California law and subject to the California Public Records Act, meaning all deliverables and supporting materials are public records unless properly designated with confidential documentation submitted separately. Contractors must secure comprehensive insurance coverage, including commercial general liability, professional liability, automobile liability, and workers’ compensation, all with minimum limits and naming the state as an additional insured. Payment terms are NET 45 days via electronic or physical invoice submission to CIRM’s accounts payable office, and invoices require strict formatting, including line-item alignment with the budget, contractor contact details, and agreement number. The contractor must submit the STD