Grand Rapids, MI – The Michigan Center for Adult College Success today announced the release of three
Requests for Proposals (RFPs) aimed at strengthening Michigan’s understanding of, and support for, adult learners pursuing postsecondary education. Together, the projects will enhance data storytelling, improve program transparency, and identify and amplify best practices across the state.
“Michigan’s adult learners are at the heart of our state’s talent strategy,” said Jeremy Hendges, Director of the Center. “These RFPs reflect our continued commitment to evidence-based decision making and inclusive program design as we work toward the state’s Sixty by 30 goal.”
The three open RFPs include:
1. Adult Learner Research, Reporting, and Best Practice Documentation
This comprehensive research contract will deliver an updated landscape analysis of adult postsecondary participation, support narrative development for the Michigan Reconnect annual report, and produce a set of short-form best practice profiles from across Michigan and the nation. The goal is to better communicate the realities of adult learners and uplift programs that are achieving measurable success.
2. Michigan Reconnect Data Dashboards and Power BI Training
This project seeks a qualified contractor to develop interactive Power BI dashboards that visualize key Reconnect program outcomes—such as enrollment, retention, and completion—while disaggregating data by demographics and geography. The vendor will also provide technical documentation and training to support internal capacity and long-term sustainability.
3. Evaluation of Michigan Reconnect Enrollment Barriers
Building on prior surveys, this mixed-methods evaluation will explore the most common and consequential barriers that prevent eligible adults from enrolling in or persisting through the
Michigan Reconnect program. Findings will directly inform policy and program improvements to better meet adult learners’ needs.
Each RFP includes clear deliverables, timelines, and budgets. Proposal submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. ET on August 19, 2025, with contracts expected to be awarded no later than September 17.
Interested organizations may submit proposals for one or more of the projects. The Center welcomes responses from research firms, nonprofit organizations, postsecondary institutions, and qualified independent consultants.
Complete RFP documents are available at https://mcacs.talentfirst.net/news/ or by contacting:
Jeremy Hendges
Director, Michigan Center for Adult College Success
Email: j.hendges@talentfirst.net
Phone: 517.303.6026
For more information on the Michigan Center for Adult College Success and its ongoing work to support adult learners across the state, visit https://mcacs.talentfirst.net.