Request for Proposal (RFP): Accelerated Entrepreneurial Training Curriculum for the Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator

Issued By: Tacoma Pierce County Chamber 
Date Issued: 1/15/2025 
Proposal Due Date: 2/14/2025​

Overview 
 
The Tacoma Pierce County Chamber is seeking proposals to design an accelerated cohort-based entrepreneurial training curriculum tailored for individuals and teams in the manufacturing sector. This program aims to equip participants with the tools and strategies needed to innovate, scale, and thrive in the manufacturing sector. The target participants: startups, businesses looking to scale beyond home incubation, and small to medium size businesses looking to scale capacity and workforce.  
 
The accelerated cohort model will focus on fostering collaboration, peer learning, and rapid application of concepts in a structured yet intensive timeline. ​

Scope of Work 
 
The selected vendor will develop a training program that includes: 
1. Cohort-Based Structure: A collaborative learning environment designed for peer-to-peer engagement and knowledge-sharing. 
2. Accelerated Timeline: A compressed schedule (e.g., 6-12 weeks) with regular sessions to deliver impactful learning without long-term time commitments. 
3. Core Focus Areas: 
• Entrepreneurial fundamentals (e.g. business development, capitalization, marketing, accounting, administration). 
• Manufacturing-specific topics: lean operations, supply chain management, innovation, equipment acquisition, and quality control systems. 
• Integration of advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., automation, additive manufacturing, Industry 4.0). 
• Strategies for scaling and sustainability. 
4. Practical Applications: Hands-on activities, real-world case studies, and capstone projects tailored to participants’ manufacturing challenges. 
5. Support Materials: Development of digital and print resources, including slide decks, participant guides, facilitator manuals, and assessment tools. 
6. Delivery Method: Adaptable content for hybrid learning (in-person and online sessions) to maximize accessibility. ​

Deliverables 
 
• Cohort model framework, including session schedules and learning objectives. 
• Curriculum materials (presentations, exercises, case studies, and guides). 
• Facilitation guide for program leaders and mentors. 
• Program evaluation toolkit for participant feedback and program improvement. ​

Proposal Requirements 
 
Respondents must submit the following: 
1. Experience and Expertise: Overview of experience in entrepreneurial training and accelerated cohort-based program design. 
2. Proposed Approach: Description of how the program will address the needs of the manufacturing sector within the accelerated timeline. 
3. Work Plan and Timeline: Detailed timeline with milestones and deliverables. 
4. Budget: Itemized cost proposal for curriculum design and development. 
5. References: At least two relevant client references. ​

Evaluation Criteria 
 
Proposals will be assessed on: 
• Relevant experience and demonstrated expertise (30%) 
• Innovation and practicality of the proposed approach 20%) 
• Feasibility of the timeline (20%) 
• Cost-effectiveness (20%) 
• References and past performance (10%) ​

Submission Details 
 
Proposals must be submitted electronically by [February 14th by 5:00pm Pacific Time] to: 
[email protected] 
 
For inquiries, please contact: 
Ryan Spence  
[email protected] 
 
The Tacoma Pierce County Chamber reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or request additional clarifications. ​

SUBMIT PROPOSAL