Request for Proposals for Consultant to Conduct a Feasibility Study and Propose

The Connecticut Department of Administrative Services is seeking proposals to engage a consultant to conduct a feasibility study and develop a comprehensive plan to address the challenges nonprofit organizations face in obtaining adequate liability insurance coverage within the state. This solicitation, numbered 1508 and posted on July 6, 2026, with a response deadline of July 27, 2026, is funded by a legislative appropriation of $200,000 and requires the contractor to deliver a final report with legislative recommendations by February 1, 2027. The work involves analyzing potential solutions such as captive insurers or risk pooling mechanisms, performing actuarial evaluations of premium projections, capital requirements, and reinsurance needs, and designing an operational and governance structure that aligns with Connecticut General Statutes Title 38a and Public Act 26-47. Proposals must be submitted electronically as a single package containing a cover sheet, executive summary limited to three pages, main proposal, detailed budget, conflict of interest disclosure, assurance certifications, and required appendices including definitions and compliance statements. Evaluation will be conducted using a weighted point system totaling 100 points, with the highest priority given to consulting service expectations (35%), followed by staffing capabilities (25%), data and technology approach (20%), organizational readiness (10%), and budget realism (10%). The award will be made on a best value trade-off basis, considering both technical merit and cost, with an opportunity for Best and Final Offers on price after technical evaluation. Proposers must submit resumes and job descriptions for all key personnel, who are subject to agency approval and potential replacement if performance is inadequate. Certifications are mandatory regarding nondiscrimination, campaign finance disclosure if thresholds are met, and the absence of conflicts of interest with state officials. The contractor must demonstrate security practices for handling sensitive data, comply with state ethics laws including restrictions on financial benefits to state employees, and submit disclosures of any prior relationships with state entities within the last three years. The contract is fixed-term, non-renewable, and contingent on legislative funding, with no option periods allowed. All work must be performed in Connecticut and reported to the Connecticut Insurance Department, with formal acceptance held by the state agency. No physical delivery, packaging standards, or specific invoicing platforms are required, and the contract is governed by the standard state contract provisions referenced in the solicitation.