Open Enrollment (OE) For Project SEARCH

Open Enrollment 3202600209 is a solicitation by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) for Project SEARCH, an international initiative aimed at securing long-term, competitive, and integrated employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program utilizes a total immersion model in business environments over a full academic year, consisting of asset discovery, up to three unpaid internship rotations of eight to twelve weeks each, and job placement assistance. The goal is to develop marketable skills and place customers in positions where they remain employed for at least 90 days. The contract is structured as a bilateral agreement with specific unit rates: 613.00 dollars for asset discovery, up to 1,684.00 dollars per customer per internship rotation, and 1,225.00 dollars for successful job placement. Applicants must submit their responses via the TWC Procurement Portal in PDF format by February 9, 2027. A comprehensive application packet is required, including certifications for child support compliance, conflict of interest, and provider insurance, as well as detailed entity headquarters and physical location information. Providers must adhere to the TWC VR Standards for Providers Manual, specifically the basic standards in Chapter 3, and ensure all physical locations meet ADA accessibility and safety requirements. TWC reserves the right to conduct onsite inspections and requires criminal background checks for key personnel at the vendor's expense. Payment is processed via direct deposit within 30 days of receiving a correct invoice, in accordance with the Texas Prompt Payment Act. Evaluation for award may consider past performance and the overall best interest of the State of Texas.