The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation (DSCI) seeks a qualified third‑party administrator to operate the Maryland Member Assistance Fund, a financial assistance program for members of state‑supported service programs (Service Year Option, Maryland Corps, AmeriCorps, etc.). The contractor will manage the entire lifecycle: online application portal setup, intake, eligibility review, applicant communications, fund disbursement (electronic and check), confidential record‑keeping, and regular reporting. The contract is a fixed‑price, small‑procurement award not to exceed $100,000 for administration services (the actual assistance funds, estimated $60,000, are pass‑through and not revenue). The term is one year with possible renewal subject to performance and funding.
• Administer up to ~200 assistance applications in the first year.
• Operate a secure, mobile‑friendly online portal and maintain confidential applicant data.
• Review applications, verify eligibility, make funding determinations per DSCI criteria.
• Disburse approved funds (target 2‑5 business days for electronic payments, 7‑14 days for mailed checks).
• Provide monthly activity reports, trend analysis, and an annual program summary.
• Participate in optional virtual pre‑bid conference (Oct 21, 2026) and submit questions by Oct 23, 2026.
• Contract value capped at $100,000 for admin fees; assistance funds (~$60,000) are reimbursed separately.
• One‑year term, with renewal possible if funding and performance allow.