RFP Proposal for City of Seattle's Public Utilities Department
Technical Assistance Programs
January 3, 2025

RFP Proposal for City of Seattle's Public Utilities Department

This case study outlines the proposal developed for the City of Seattle's Public Utilities Department, focusing on enhancing inclusivity and diversity within their operations.

Focus

Proposal writing to respond to an RFP regarding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) practices for City of Seattle staff



‍Services Provided

RFP review, proposal writing, collating content from multiple team members and subcontractors, proposal graphic design, completion of forms, and final submission



Challenge

Be Possible LLC needed a compelling proposal to secure the contract extension as it was up for public bid. The RFP required detailed responses to specific questions, a strategic approach to DEIB practices, an attractive presentation format, and comprehensive team bio/resumes. The proposal had to demonstrate Be Possible's continued value in promoting DEIB within SPU, highlighting their impact on both internal staff and the public.

Our Approach

Launch Industries was engaged to manage the entire proposal process. Our approach included the following steps:

Step 1. Assessment and Strategy:

Reviewed the RFP to understand requirements and ensure Be Possible's qualifications matched.

Developed a strategic response plan highlighting Be Possible's past successes and future plans for DEIB initiatives at SPU.

Step 2. Content Creation:

Crafted detailed and persuasive responses to RFP questions, emphasizing Be Possible's expertise and previous achievements.

Structured the proposal to clearly outline the methodologies and expected outcomes of the DEIB programs.

Step 3. Budget Support:

Working closely with Be Possible leadership, identified costs associated with delivering the program as envisioned by the Be Possible leadership, ensuring a quality experience for the client as well as a profitable experience for the contractor.

Step 3. Design and Presentation:

Designed an attractive and professional proposal document, ensuring readability and engagement.

Included visual elements ranging from organization charts to budget charts and branded template to bio/resume “Meet the Team” packet to graphically enhance the narrative and support key points.

Step 4. Team Bio/Resumes:

Compiled comprehensive and tailored biographies and resumes for the Be Possible team, showcasing their qualifications and experience in DEIB.  All team information laid out and presented in an attractive “Meet the Team” packet.

Outcomes

This client was awarded a $250,000 contract.

Conclusion

The proposal submitted to the City of Seattle's Public Utilities department was well-received, leading to the successful extension of Be Possible's contract. This contract extension enables Be Possible to continue their important work in advancing DEIB practices within SPU, impacting over 1,000 employees. This not only benefits the internal staff by fostering an inclusive work environment, but also positively impacts SPU customers and the wider Seattle community.