RFP-Farm Viability Business Program Technical Assistant Support

The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), through its Market Access & Certification Program Area, is soliciting proposals for technical assistance services to support its Farm Viability Business Program. This initiative aims to strengthen Oregon’s food and agriculture supply chain by enhancing coordination among stakeholders and expanding distribution pathways appropriate to farm scale. The contract, identified by solicitation number S-60300-00016463 and posted on April 10, 2026, requires qualified contractors to deliver services that include training producers, developing business strategies to diversify markets, and measuring improvements in financial and business acumen among farm operators. The period of performance concludes by December 1, 2026, with an expectation that all work and deliverables meet accepted industry standards as detailed in the Statement of Work (Exhibit A), which will be specified post-award based on the Contractor’s proposal. Proposals will be evaluated on a weighted system totaling 120 points, emphasizing expertise and knowledge of Oregon’s agricultural landscape (40 points), producer engagement and training approaches (30 points), and methods for measuring business outcomes (30 points), with cost accounting for 20 points. Award is made through a trade-off process prioritizing overall best value, not solely lowest price. Key contract personnel—including Amy Gilroy (Development Manager) and Heather Hawes (Procurement Specialist)—are identified as essential, with strict requirements regarding substitutions and subcontracting approvals. The contract mandates strict compliance with Oregon state laws, non-discrimination policies, pay equity, and insurance conditions including naming the state as an additional insured. Deliverables will be inspected and accepted at the ODA’s Salem office, where the agency retains final acceptance authority and the contractor must correct deficiencies at its own cost within a defined timeframe. Financial administration requires invoice submission to the Accounts Payable office, with payments contingent on appropriations. Offerors must submit proposals electronically via OregonBuys by May 11, 2026, including specific certifications, cost breakdowns, reference checks, and outreach plans as detailed in multiple attachments. Overall, this contract seeks a highly qualified partner to provide targeted technical assistance services that contribute to the viability and resilience of farm businesses across Oregon.