Specifications include, but are not limited to: The Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission (CVRPC) is requesting proposals from qualified individuals or firms well-versed in co-operative principles and engagement to provide an internal readiness assessment for a 1,060-member food co-operative. The co-operative is presently in the process of developing a strategic plan for expansion and financial feasibility. Internal readiness is one out of four components in the grant project. The scope of this request for bid only pertains to internal readiness and no other portion of the project. A bid submission to this request does not preclude an individual or firm from submitting proposals to other requests for bids associated with this project. 1) Working with an advisory committee of Co-op members, staff and other stakeholders, conduct a self-assessment and an assessment of the Co-op using tools such as surveys and small group discussions to uncover operational hurdles to project implementation and increase the Co-op’s capacity to undergo change. The purpose of these assessments is to help: a. understand the challenges faced by the Co-op; b. understand internal accountability; c. clarify Board, member, and staff roles and responsibilities; d. outline a project management plan. 2) Utilizing the results of the design and financial feasibility studies, develop and implement a communication plan with the help of the advisory committee and Co-op Board to ensure that the Co-op membership is fully engaged in the process in order to reach a decision on the best option to proceed. 3) Work with Board members to conduct a test campaign to determine a feasible member loan/giving goal, identify key donors, validate the project, determine the strategic focus of any campaign, and help with communication plans. 4) Assist the Co-op Board with facilitating a vote by membership to reach a decision on the best option to proceed. 5) Meet with the advisory committee and Co-op Board regularly to provide progress updates on deliverables.
