NDSTEM Initiator

Request for Proposals

North Dakota STEM Ecosystem
STEM Initiative Support, Fundraising, Grant Management, and Administration
Contract Period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
Maximum Contract Amount: $40,000 

  1. Introduction

The North Dakota STEM Ecosystem (NDSE) is a statewide network committed to strengthening STEM learning and workforce pathways for all learners. STEM Ecosystems are community-based collaborations that transform how students learn and connect to future opportunities. They bring together cross-sector partners—schools, afterschool programs, colleges, businesses, community organizations, and government agencies—to create powerful STEM learning experiences. 

In alignment with these principles, NDSE coordinates diverse stakeholders to expand access to high-quality STEM programs, enhance alignment with workforce needs, and support innovation across the state. 

NDSE is seeking proposals from qualified individuals or organizations to provide comprehensive support for statewide STEM initiatives. The selected contractor will lead fundraising efforts, manage grants, coordinate communications, provide administrative support, and deliver strategic services that strengthen STEM education and workforce pathways across North Dakota. 

NDSE intends to award a contract for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with the option to extend the contract based on performance, need, and funding availability. 

The maximum contract value is $40,000. 

  1. Scope of Work

The contractor will be responsible for the following functions: 

  1. Fundraising and Sustainability
  • Develop and implement a fundraising plan to secure dollars that sustain NDSE operations, staffing, and ongoing statewide STEM initiatives. 
  • Pursue corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, sponsorships, and other funding sources. 
  • Provide regular progress updates on fundraising goals. 
  1. Grant Writing and Grant Administration
  • Identify and pursue grant opportunities aligned with NDSE’s mission. 
  • Prepare grant applications, budgets, and required supporting documentation. 
  • Administer awarded grants, including tracking, reporting, and compliance. 
  • Develop, manage, and monitor STEM Initiative Grants, which may include student competition support, statewide programs, and innovation projects. 
  1. Administrative Support for the NDSE Board
  • Assist with scheduling, agenda development, minutes, and record keeping. 
  • Support Board committees and strategic work groups. 
  • Provide timely communication and document management for Board operations. 
  1. Industry Engagement and Consulting
  • Serve as a liaison to industry partners to identify needs, opportunities, and areas for collaboration. 
  • Offer consulting and coordination to strengthen workforce-aligned STEM programming statewide. 
  1. Communications and Public Relations
  • Manage NDSE communications, including press releases, announcements, newsletters, and outreach. 
  • Oversee website content, updates, and functionality. 
  • Maintain and grow social media presence to increase overall engagement and visibility. 
  1. Data and Resource Management
  • Develop and maintain a STEM Initiative Database containing program, partner, and participant information. 
  • Create and manage a North Dakota Student STEM Organization Asset Map, cataloging student clubs, competitions, extracurriculars, and regional opportunities. 

 

  1. Contractor Qualifications

Proposals should demonstrate the following qualifications: 

  • Experience in fundraising, grant writing, and grant administration. 
  • Knowledge of STEM education, workforce development, or related fields. 
  • Strong communication, marketing, and public relations capabilities. 
  • Experience in nonprofit administration, project management, or organizational coordination. 
  • Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage multiple concurrent tasks. 
  • Familiarity with North Dakota’s education and workforce landscape is preferred. 

 

  1. Proposal Requirements

All proposals must include the following: 

  1. Cover Letter summarizing interest and qualifications. 
  1. Technical Proposal describing the approach to completing the Scope of Work. 
  1. Work Plan and Timeline for delivering services within the contract period. 
  1. Qualifications and Experience, including résumés or organizational profile. 
  1. Three Professional References with contact information. 
  1. Cost Proposal not to exceed $40,000, detailing the budget structure (hourly rate, flat rate, etc.). 
  1. Conflict of Interest Statement, if applicable. 

 

  1. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on: 

  • Demonstrated experience and qualifications 
  • Quality and clarity of the proposed approach 
  • Capacity to deliver required services 
  • Cost-effectiveness and alignment with available funding 
  • Understanding of North Dakota’s STEM needs and priorities 
  • Past performance or references 
  1. Contract Terms
  • Contract Period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027 
  • Maximum Contract Amount: $40,000 
  • Contract extensions may be considered based on performance, funding availability, and Board approval. 
  • Contractor will operate as an independent contractor. 
  • Deliverables and reporting schedules will be finalized in the contract document. 
  1. Submission Instructions

Proposals must be submitted electronically to:

Wayde Sick (wasick@nd.gov) ND Dept of Career and Technical Education by March 15, 2026.

Late or incomplete proposals may not be considered. 

  1. Questions

Questions regarding this RFP may be directed to: Wayde Sick