Proposer Qualifications: Only evidence-based or research-based programs that leverage national best practices will be considered. Qualified providers must clearly identify in their proposal the following: • program design; • expected outcomes and alignment with City objectives; • method of delivery; • age range targeted; and • the process for monitoring and evaluating the program. In addition, program providers will be expected to: • provide seasonal reports that clearly identify the expected outcomes and how those outcomes are measured; • assist with recruiting and retention efforts, and outreach strategies—including marketing and social media—especially among vulnerable populations; and • assist with securing additional funding to sustain the REC-N-TEC program past the one-year pilot phase. The proposal must also demonstrate the provider's capacity to provide services in a minimum of three (3) of the City of Cleveland's twenty-two (22) Neighborhood Resource & Recreational Centers as determined by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Programs should be designed to support working-age adolescents 14–17 years old and/or adults ages 18 and up. Providers are not required to address all age ranges. Programs that include participation by adolescents or adults with disabilities are encouraged. Programs will be offered during one or more seasonal session(s). Providers must note during which seasonal session(s) they are prepared to provide services. Winter Session: January 2027 –March 2027 Spring Session: March 2027 – May 2027 Summer Session: June 2027 – August 2027 F all Session: September 2027 – December 2027 *Important Note for Selected Providers: Awards will be based on the following factors: Funding availability Capacity of providers Physical capacity of Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Centers Community needs Minimum Qualifications for Eligibility: Licensed to do business in the state of Ohio, if applicable. Professional licensing or certifications, if applicable. Proposer firm's required type, length, and level of experience in type(s) of services or project (determined by user department). Key project staff members' experience, to include type, length, and level of experience. If serving youth, demonstrated experience in working within multi-agency youth collaboratives or coordinating with municipal youth services or Cabinets is strongly preferred. Client references for both the firm and each project team member. Written commitments, to become part of the agreement, that: a) all members of the proposed Project Team shall be the persons performing services during the contract term; and b) the successful Proposer, as contractor, shall not remove, add, or substitute members of the proposed Project Team without the prior written consent of the Department. Insurance Requirements: The Successful Proposer, at its expense, at all times during the term of the contract resulting from this RFP shall maintain the following insurance coverage. The insurance company(ies) providing the required insurance shall be authorized by the Ohio Department of Insurance to do business in Ohio and rated "A" or above by A. M. Best Company or equivalent. The Successful Proposer, as contractor, shall provide a copy of the policy or policies and any necessary endorsements, or a substitute for them satisfactory to and approved by the Director of Law, evidencing the required insurances upon execution of the contract. Professional liability insurance with limits of not less and $1,000,000.00 for each occurrence and subject to a deductible for each occurrence of not more than $50,000.00 per occurrence and in the aggregate, and if not written on an occurrence basis, shall be maintained for not less than two (2) years after satisfactory completion and written acceptance of the services under the contract. Workers' compensation and employer's liability insurance as provided under the laws of the State of Ohio. Statutory unemployment insurance protection for all its employees. Such other insurance coverage(s) as the City may reasonably require. Expected Outcomes: In partnership with the City of Cleveland, these are the expected outcomes of the REC-N-TEC pilot initiative: Strengthened Education-to-Employment Pipeline and Community Partnerships Establish and expand collaborations with educational institutions, community anchors (e.g., schools, higher education, public libraries), and local industry leaders to align curricula with current industry trends and in-demand digital skills. If serving youth, all outcomes should explicitly support the Mayor's Office of Prevention, Intervention and Opportunity 's mission of improving economic mobility, reducing poverty, and enhancing health, safety, and educational opportunities for Cleveland youth (ages 0–24). Outcome: A seamless pipeline that transitions participants from training to employment, supported by robust community and professional networks fostering innovation and collaboration. Inclusive and Accessible Digital Skills Training Prioritize outreach to vulnerable populations—including unsheltered residents, seniors, single parents, and justice-affected individuals—and implement hybrid learning models to increase flexibility and participation. Outcome: Broader community participation, reduced digital disparities, and equitable access to economic opportunities for all Cleveland residents. Foundational and Advanced Digital Fluency Equip participants with essential digital competencies (e.g., device navigation, online communication, data literacy, digital safety, productivity tools) and integrate emerging technologies such as AR, MR, VR, AI, and digital fabrication (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining). Outcome: Participants gain baseline and advanced digital fluency, preparing them for modern workplace demands and technical career pathways. Integrated Soft Skills and Career Readiness Incorporate communication, teamwork, and problem-solving into training alongside targeted career counseling, resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. Outcome: Graduates demonstrate technical and interpersonal competencies, increasing their job readiness and effectiveness in hybrid work environments. Measured Skills Proficiency and Career Outcomes Use pre- and post-program assessments to ensure an average 25% improvement in digital skills, with a goal of at least 60% of graduates securing digital-related employment or advancing in their careers within six months of program completion. Outcome: Participants are positioned for economic mobility through enhanced digital proficiency, career advancement, and sustainable job placement. Modernized, Adaptive, and Responsive Programming Deliver training in state-of-the-art learning environments that integrate feedback mechanisms (e.g., participant surveys) to adapt programming to evolving community and labor market needs. Outcome: A dynamic and innovative program that ensures long-term relevance, success in bridging the digital divide, and direct mitigation of economic disparities. Participant Retention and Program Completion Goals Achieve participant retention and program completion rates of 80%. Outcome: A robust, engaged cohort demonstrating high retention, program success, and measurable community impact. These outcomes reflect our commitment to transforming digital education into tangible economic mobility for Cleveland residents, aligning with the strategic goals and measurable impact outlined in this Request for Proposals.
