Funding Opportunity: Massachusetts Department of Youth Services- Skills Up- Rolling Due Date

The Massachusetts Department of Youth Services is soliciting proposals through the Skill Up: Career, Technical and Workforce Training and Employment Services Request for Responses (RFR), solicitation number BD-26-1035-DYS01-DYS01-129836. This open-market funding opportunity seeks high-quality career and technical training and employment programs for youth in both residential and community settings. Eligible applicants include vocational and higher education institutions, unions, businesses, nonprofit and community-based organizations, and other qualified entities. The program aims to improve life outcomes for youth under DYS care and reduce racial and ethnic disparities within the juvenile justice system. The solicitation features a rolling due date with a final bid opening date of June 22, 2028. Awards are based on Best Value Selection, and the initial contract duration runs through June 30, 2025, with the possibility of four additional one-year renewals. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the COMMBUYS portal and must include a detailed project description, implementation plans, target populations, and a statement regarding the organization's suitability for working with BIPOC populations. Contractors are required to participate in the Commonwealth Electronic Funds Transfer program for payments. Special compliance requirements include adherence to HIPAA and Privacy and Security Rules for those handling protected health information, as well as compliance with Executive Order 509 regarding nutrition standards for food purchased and served by state agencies. This opportunity is eligible for the Small Business Purchasing Program.