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

The Massachusetts Department of Youth Services is seeking proposals through Request for Responses RFR 2023-07 for the Skill Up program, a funding opportunity designed to provide high-quality career, technical, workforce training, and employment services for youth in residential and community settings. This open-market solicitation targets vocational and higher education institutions, unions, businesses, and nonprofit or community-based organizations. Eligible providers can offer a range of services, including work-based learning, vocational and technical training, pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, social enterprises within DYS facilities, and specialized consulting. The program aims to improve life outcomes for youth and reduce racial and ethnic disparities within the juvenile justice system. The procurement utilizes a fee-for-service pricing model with an initial contract duration through June 30, 2025, and the possibility of four additional one-year renewals. Awards are based on best value selection and negotiation, with a critical pass/fail requirement for a Supplier Diversity Program plan demonstrating commitment to minority, women, and service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises. Evaluation is weighted based on project description, target population, target communities, organizational information, and suitability for working with BIPOC populations. All proposals must be submitted electronically via the COMMBUYS portal, with a rolling due date and a final bid opening listed for June 22, 2028. Selected providers must comply with strict background check requirements, including CORI, SORI, and multi-state fingerprinting, and adhere to HIPAA and Commonwealth of Massachusetts financial and nutrition standards.