Marketing and Communication Services RFP

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is seeking qualified vendors to provide comprehensive marketing and communications services, including media purchasing, advertising, brand awareness initiatives, and support to increase student applications. The contract will cover the university’s six locally governed institutions and may be extended to other state agencies. Proposals must be submitted in sealed envelopes (or email) by October 15, 2026, with a separate technical and financial component. Vendors must submit a single point of contact by August 26, 2026 and may ask written questions through September 9, 2026. The award process includes technical evaluation, oral presentations (mandatory), and financial scoring. The anticipated contract term spans five years, with optional services outlined through year 5. • Scope: Media buying, advertising, brand strategy, campaign management, and related communications support. • Mandatory deliverables: Technical proposal (no pricing) and separate financial proposal. • Key dates: Issue 8/12/2026, Q&A 9/9/2026, Intent 9/30/2026, Proposal 10/15/2026, Oral presentations (date TBD). • Evaluation criteria: Qualifications (30 pts), Technical approach (50 pts), Financial proposal (30 pts). • Required compliance: Minority/women‑owned participation, nondiscrimination, accessibility standards, insurance, licensure, and financial stability.