Public Relations Firm - 25CM000307

The contract involves engaging a qualified public relations agency to develop and implement a comprehensive media strategy for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) over a 12-month period. The scope includes crafting an earned media plan, securing strategic media placements, and providing executive-level media and presentation training to enhance CIRM’s visibility and communication effectiveness. The project’s budget ranges from 500,000 to 1.5 million dollars, with an initial budget of 100,000 dollars allocated for services such as media outreach, strategy development, and training, payable on a NET 45 basis upon submission of detailed, itemized invoices. The contract emphasizes performance-based deliverables, requiring detailed timelines, progress reports, and regular communication, with services to be performed primarily in California, though specific performance locations are not explicitly defined. The procurement process is conducted through a formal RFP, with proposals due by September 2, 2025, submitted electronically to the specified email. Evaluation will be based on a best value approach, considering the firm’s relevant experience, responsiveness, personnel qualifications, and overall value, rather than solely on price. The selection process involves compliance review, qualitative assessment, and comparison of proposals, with CIRM reserving the right to reject any or all submissions. The contract incorporates California state statutes, including public contracting, nondiscrimination, and transparency laws, and references standard state forms such as STD 204 and STD 205 for payee data. It also mandates compliance with SB and DVBE participation requirements, confidentiality provisions, and record retention policies. No federal FAR clauses are included; instead, the contract is governed by California laws, with specific clauses addressing conflict of interest, nondiscrimination, termination rights, and force majeure. The agreement is contingent upon approval by the State’s Director of Finance or General Counsel, and all amendments must be in writing. The contract emphasizes transparency, accountability, and adherence to applicable statutory and regulatory provisions, ensuring a clear framework for performance, payment, and compliance throughout the engagement.