Holistic Essential Needs Survey

Background

The Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) is responsible for executing the policies of the Board of Higher Education and coordinating the public higher education system in Massachusetts. The DHE aims to create a system that provides opportunities for citizens to participate in educational programs and contribute to economic growth. This solicitation seeks a vendor to develop, test, and validate a holistic essential needs survey for public higher education students in Massachusetts, focusing on key areas such as housing, food, transportation, technology, behavioral and mental health, health care, and child care.

Work Details

The selected vendor will develop, pilot, validate, and administer a holistic survey instrument that captures information regarding students' essential needs across seven areas. The project includes: - Developing a survey instrument by May 29, 2026. - Conducting validation using Summer I students by June 18, 2026. - Delivering the final instrument to DHE by June 26, 2026. - Providing a final report by June 30, 2026. - Keeping specific accounting records and invoicing according to the work performed. Bidders must demonstrate expertise in developing similar surveys and provide examples of past large-scale surveys conducted.

Period of Performance

The contract period is from May 15, 2026, through June 30, 2026. There are options for annual renewal subject to appropriation until September 30, 2029.

Place of Performance

The contract will be performed within Massachusetts as it pertains to public higher education institutions.

Bidder Requirements

Bidders must have at least five years of legal operations in the United States and demonstrated experience in developing large-scale student surveys for higher education systems. A strong preference is given to vendors with experience related to essential needs. Proposals must include a detailed budget not exceeding $300,000 for FY26.