This is a Request for Proposals (RFP) from the State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) for a Coordinator and Liaison for the State of Hawaii office in Taipei. The contractor will be responsible for identifying and pursuing opportunities to enhance economic development and international engagement between Hawaii and Taiwan. Key responsibilities include acting as the state's primary point of contact in Taiwan, advancing Hawaii's priorities in economic development, trade, investment, education, international relations, and cultural exchange, and engaging with public and private sector partners. The contract term is 24 months with an option for a 12-month extension. Proposals are due by 4:00 PM HST on June 5, 2026. Questions regarding the solicitation are due by May 20, 2026, with the state's response by May 22, 2026. The proposal must include an overall strategy, timeline, and plan, as well as details on experience and capabilities. The maximum contract cost is $99,**** for two years. Insurance requirements include commercial general liability and automobile liability. No performance or payment bond is required.
The contract start date is July 1, 2026, and the initial term of the contract is twenty-four months.
All payments under this contract shall be made on a monthly basis based on the contractor's submission of a monthly activity and financial report.
The award will be made to the responsive and responsible offeror whose proposal is determined to be the most advantageous to the state based on the evaluation criteria: cost of services (20 points), experience, capability, and proficiency (45 points), and proposal and implementation strategy (35 points).
The contractor must have at least six years of experience in managing international operations and executing strategic programs, experience representing a government or similar entity in international markets, and proven ability to engage with stakeholders and build relationships in Hawaii and Taiwan.
Failure to comply with the conditions regarding wages, hours, and working conditions of employees supplying services shall result in cancellation of the contract.
A protest shall be submitted in writing within five working days after the aggrieved person knows or should have known of the facts giving rise thereto, provided that a protest based upon the content of the solicitation shall be submitted in writing prior to the date set for receipt of offers.
The total contract cost is not to exceed $99,**** for 2 years.