The Michigan Center for Adult College Success—an initiative of TalentFirst—is seeking proposals from qualified communications and public relations firms to partner with us in elevating our profile as a trusted expert in adult postsecondary education.
Our mission is to serve as the state’s primary resource for research, support, and best practices to increase adult enrollment and the completion of postsecondary credentials and degrees. We are looking for a strategic partner to help us establish a robust communications strategy, generate media coverage, and build meaningful connections with policymakers, employers, and postsecondary institutions across Michigan.
Scope of Work Overview
The selected firm will develop and execute a comprehensive communications and PR strategy. Key focus areas include:
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Strategic Communications Planning: Developing a detailed plan identifying key messages, target audiences, and channels.
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Media Relations: Securing coverage in major Michigan news outlets (especially Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing markets) and key national publications.
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Social Media & Content Creation: Managing online presence, producing newsletters, blogs, case studies, and designing reports/collateral.
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Stakeholder Engagement & Event Support: Fostering relationships with key partners and assisting with webinars, presentations, and events.
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Crisis Communications: Developing a plan to manage potential challenges.
Contract Term & Budget: This is a one-year contract (with the possibility of renewal) with a maximum budget of $90,000.
Important Dates
| Milestone | Date |
| RFP Issue Date | October 28, 2026 |
| Proposal Submission Deadline | November 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. EST |
| Proposal Review Period | November 16–20, 2026 |
| Vendor Selection | November 23, 2026 |
| Contract Execution | No later than November 25, 2026 |
How to Apply
Please download the full RFP document below for complete details on deliverables, proposal requirements, and evaluation criteria.
Proposals must be submitted electronically in PDF format to Jeremy Hendges, Executive Director, at j.hendges@talentfirst.net by the submission deadline.
Questions? Please contact Jeremy Hendges at j.hendges@talentfirst.net or 517-303-6026.
Submission Instructions
Submit bids electronically to Jeremy Hendges (j.hendges@talentfirst.net) by 5pm ET on Nov. 13,
2026
Contact Information
For any questions or further information, please contact:
Jeremy Hendges
Director, Michigan Center for Adult College Success
j.hendges@talentfirst.net
tel: 517.303.6026
