Grand Rapids, MI – The Michigan Center for Adult College Success today announced the release of a Solicitation of Bids seeking qualified firms to provide event planning and logistical support as it hosts the inaugural Adult Learner Summit, set to take place in Detroit in February of 2026. Please click here to view the full solicitation.
The Center-hosted event will provide the opportunity for colleges and universities across the state to discuss innovative methods to boost adult learner enrollment, persistence, and completion efforts on their campuses. The summit will feature presentations from national experts and opportunities for participants to share the work they are doing at their own campuses to better serve adult learners. Additionally, the summit will feature MI-LEARN Design Lab participants and Innovation Investment Award recipients.
“We’ve seen innovative approaches to not just enrolling more adult learners in college in Michigan, but excellent strategies to see them through to completion of a degree or certificate,” said Jeremy Hendges, Director of the Michigan Center for Adult College Success. “For the first time, we want to bring everyone together in one place to share their strategies for success, encourage peer-to-peer learning, and tap national experts for further guidance.”
The Center will partner with the selected event planning firm to manage a project plan and logistical support leading up to the summit, as well as onsite coordination of the venue, vendors, and registration process.
Key components of the Solicitation for Bids include:
- Managing the event registration process and attendee communications
- Developing and maintaining a project plan with tasks, owners and deadlines
- Participating in regular project meetings with The Center team throughout December, January and February
- Design and production of Center-branded event materials, such as: programs, agendas, name badges, signage, etc.
- Staff management of registration, AV vendors and onsite troubleshooting for two-day event
Submission Deadline: 5:00 p.m. ET on December 9, 2025
Maximum Project Budget: $45,000 – including material costs (printing, signage, badges, staff travel costs)
The Center will evaluate proposals based on understanding of The Center’s work, experience with similar event organization and management, cost-effectiveness and detailed budget outline, and feasibility of the proposed timeline. A vendor will be selected no later than December 12, 2025, with contract execution completed by December 17, 2025.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit proposals electronically to:
Jeremy Hendges
Director, Michigan Center for Adult College Success
j.hendges@talentfirst.net
For additional information or questions, potential bidders may contact Hendges at 517-303-6026.
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About The Michigan Center for Adult College Success
The Michigan Center for Adult College Success is the state’s primary resource to improve the enrollment and completion of postsecondary education by adults. As an initiative of TalentFirst, The Center’s goal is to meet the statewide need for a skilled workforce. The Center collects research, shares best practices, funds innovative pilots and provides technical assistance. The Center partners with a wide range of educators, business leaders and policy makers toward a shared goal of helping more adults get the credentials they need to reach their full potential, so Michigan can thrive. Learn more: https://info.talentfirst.net/mcacs
About TalentFirst
TalentFirst is a premiere alliance of West Michigan CEOs who are joined by HR leaders, educators, workforce leaders, and policymakers to collaborate on an unmatched scale for the benefit of all who live and work in the region. As a data-driven organization, TalentFirst provides practical, proven resources, strategies, tactics, advocacy and accountability to improve the recruitment, development and retention of talent in West Michigan. Learn more at http://www.talentfirst.net/