Federal Advocacy Services

Background

First 5 California (F5CA) is inviting proposals from qualified organizations to provide federal advocacy services that align with its mission of promoting the healthy development and well-being of children from prenatal to age five and their families across California. The selected contractor will act as a strategic partner, providing essential services such as federal legislative and budget monitoring, policy analysis, relationship-building with California's congressional delegation and relevant federal agencies, development of advocacy materials, and strategic counsel aimed at advancing early childhood policies. This initiative is crucial for elevating California's early childhood priorities in federal processes and supporting the goals outlined in F5CA's Strategic Plan and Policy Agenda.

Work Details

The contractor will be responsible for: 1. Direct Federal Advocacy and Policy Engagement: Engaging with Members of Congress, U.S. Senators, congressional committees, the White House, federal agencies, and policy staff to communicate F5CA’s priorities. 2. Federal Legislative and Budget Monitoring and Analysis: Tracking federal legislation, appropriations, budget proposals, hearings, and administrative actions impacting children prenatal to age five and their families while providing policy analysis to inform advocacy strategies. 3. Policy Development and Advocacy Materials: Preparing federal policy briefs, legislative analyses, position letters, testimony materials, talking points, and briefing documents for engagement with federal policymakers. 4. Reporting and Strategic Counsel: Providing regular written reports on legislative developments and offering strategic guidance regarding emerging opportunities, risks, and advocacy strategies.

Period of Performance

The anticipated term of this Agreement will be approximately three (3) years with a start date upon approval by the Department of General Services (DGS), expected in summer 2026.

Place of Performance

The services will be performed primarily in Washington D.C., engaging with federal representatives on behalf of First 5 California.

Bidder Requirements

Bidders must comply with the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation requirement of at least three percent (3%) of the total bid value. Additionally, bidders are encouraged to leverage existing relationships with organizations that have aligned missions.