This Request for Proposal (RFP) from the New York State Department of Economic Development (NYSED) seeks a qualified individual or firm to provide tourism representation services for Australia and New Zealand. The selected contractor will be responsible for travel trade representation, consumer marketing, strategic counsel, and operational support to promote New York State as a premier travel destination in these markets. Key activities include participation in trade shows, sales missions, consumer outreach, and media relations. The contract term is for up to five years, with an estimated annual budget of $250,000. Proposals are due by May 29, 2026. Mandatory qualifications include demonstrated knowledge of the Australia and New Zealand tourism industry, experience with the travel trade and press, and proven consumer marketing experience. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical merit, resources, and cost. The RFP also outlines requirements for proposal content, submission procedures, and contractual terms, including payment processes, intellectual property rights, and confidentiality.
The bid notice states that proposals must be submitted no later than May 29, 2026, by 5:00 p. m. U. S. Eastern Standard Time. Late proposals cannot be accepted.
The bid notice states that payment for contractors' services will be made in the ordinary course of state business upon receipt of duly authenticated invoices/vouchers, a list of tasks performed during the billing period, and upon receipt of reports and/or deliverables. The contractor shall invoice the department quarterly on the first day of each quarter.
The bid notice states that proposals will be evaluated based on technical evaluation (demonstrated experience, quality of approach/performance metrics, organizational capability), resources evaluation, and cost evaluation. The award will be made to the proposer offering the best value.
The bid notice outlines mandatory qualification requirements including demonstrated knowledge of the Australia and New Zealand tourism industry, at least 5 years of experience working with the Australia and New Zealand travel trade and press, proven experience in consumer marketing, demonstrated accomplishments in destination marketing, qualified staff, physical presence in Australia and/or New Zealand, and three business references.
The bid notice states that any interested party may file a protest, in writing, with the NYS Dept. of Economic Development within ten (10) business days from the date of the notice of the contract award, with exceptions for protests concerning terms and conditions of the solicitation.
The bid notice states that approximately US $250,000 per year is expected to be available for the contractor.
