Deadline: 24-Jan-22
The Washington State Department of Commerce, hereafter called “COMMERCE,” is initiating a Request for Proposals (RFP) from industry-led consortia interested in participating in the first cohort of the Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program (ICAP). ICAP is an economic development strategy to strengthen industry ecosystems and accelerate economic development.
The intent of this second RFP is to select up to three additional clusters to join the first cohort. A key priority for this procurement is to increase ICAP’s geographical and industry representation. Prospective clusters in Central and Eastern Washington, the Kitsap Peninsula, and South West Washington are encouraged to apply.
Goals
Their goal is to support the first cohort through September 30, 2023 and expand the program over the coming decade to:
- Grow businesses
- Transform legacy companies
- Accelerate new start-ups and scale-ups
- Create high-value jobs throughout Washington
- Increase export opportunities
- Establish Washington as a global leader in key industry sectors
Objectives and Scope of Work
Organizations selected for ICAP will convene and manage an industry-led cluster centered on a single industry or sector. The cluster will engage in activities to:
- Identify and solve industry-level challenges that limit growth in the industry
- Drive innovation in the industry, such as joint research and development projects
- Identify and pursue market opportunities as a cluster
Funding Information
- COMMERCE intends to award 2-3 contracts to provide the services described in this RFP. Selected organizations will receive up to $500,000 each through a performance-based contract and will participate in COMMERCE’s cluster development program.
- COMMERCE has budgeted an amount not to exceed $1,500,000 for this project, up to $500,000 per organization.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum qualifications include:
- Licensed to do business in the State of Washington or submit a statement of commitment that it will become licensed in Washington within thirty (30) calendar days of being selected as an Apparently Successful Contractor.
For more information, visit Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises.
For more information, visit https://omwbe.wa.gov/bid-opportunities/innovation-cluster-accelerator-program-application-20