Request for Proposal for Technical Assistance Providers

Through the award of funding from the USDA Rural Cooperative Development Grant program, the Montana Cooperative Development Center (MCDC) is expanding the Montana Cooperative Technical Assistance Network. The individuals chosen will have backgrounds in economic development and will be contracted and trained to offer cooperative development assistance. The Montana Cooperative Development Center Inc. will administer the Network. To receive consideration for funding and training opportunities, proposals must be submitted to the MCDC no later than March 5, 2004. Accepted proposals will be announced no later than March 19, 2004. The Technical Assistance Network funding will run through September 30, 2004.

Funding will include up to $2,200.00 for contracted technical assistance services and up to $1,000.00 for cooperative development training and travel expenses associated with training approved by the Director.

Proposal should include a specific cooperative development start up project the provider will assist or an existing project considering the formation of a cooperative. It is preferred that the focus be on cooperative development in the applicant’s area. Also included should be how the technical assistance provider will market and educate on cooperatives in their area. The provider must agree to be the cooperative outreach arm in their area. The provider will host a first responder packet as well as additional information on the cooperative business structure and assist businesses and individuals requesting information.

Applications will be judged on the following:

1. Proposed area of coverage

2. An in-kind match of at least $3,200.00 over 6 months from personnel and travel expenses from non-federal sources

3. Demonstrated expertise and interest in cooperatives

4. Assessment of the applicant’s proposal

The applicant must clearly state that they understand their responsibilities to comply with Federal requirements and will be willing and able to execute documents related to acceptance of money received through federal, USDA, grants. Further, the applicant must meet all other requirements including the Equal Opportunity Agreement and certification regarding debarment, suspension, ineligibility and voluntary exclusion. If the award is made to the applicant, they must offer a response documenting their understanding of responsibilities, including, but not limited to:

1. Participation in biweekly calls

2. Quarterly Performance Reports and a Final Performance Report

Contact: Larry Hanson 444-3171

Please submit proposal to:

Montana Department of Agriculture

Montana Cooperative Development Center, Inc

P.O. Box 200201

Helena, MT 59602-0201

Gloria O’Rourke

MEDA – Montana Economic Developers Association

MEDS – Montana Economic Development Services

118 E. Seventh St.; Suite 2A

Anaconda, MT 59711

ph: 406.563.5259 fx: 406.563.5476

[email protected] http://www.medamembers.org