Q: How much money has CPB set aside for this project?
A: CPB has not set a specific dollar amount for this project. CPB is interested in developing an effective and efficient service that will be self-sustaining. The services that will be provided should have strong potential to be supported by Native public radio system.
Q: Will CPB extend the deadline for proposals beyond January 9, 2006.
A: CPB does not plan to extend the application deadline.
Q: Is there a Native preference in this RFP?
A: CPB does not have a Native preference policy. CPB is seeking proposals from organizations and/or individuals with a proven background, experience, and demonstrated ability in working with the Native public radio system.
Q: What is the Public Radio Satellite System Content Depot?
A: Information about the Public Radio Satellite System is available at: www.prss.org. A full description of the Content Depot Service of the Public Radio Satellite System is available at: www.prss.org/contentdepot/.
Q: Are all the Native public radio stations prepared to receive programming via the Content Depot?
A: Most of the stations have indicated that they are prepared for the Content Depot distribution platform. The issue of stations requiring technical assistance with Content Depot will be handled separately from this RFP.
Q: Where is there information about the Native American public radio stations?
A: A listing of the stations along with other information, including maps, is available on the website for the Center for Native American Public Radio: www.cnapr.org.
Q: What programs will the service distribute?
A: The programs currently being distributed, and the current schedule, are shown at: www.airos.org. CPB does not have a requirement that specific programs be carried, but expects the service to carry programming that serves the Native radio stations. The successful applicant will need to work out distribution arrangements with producers.
Q: What would constitute a detailed business plan in the context of the RFP?
A: A full-blown business plan is not required; however, applicants should provide enough detail and explanation so that CPB can evaluate the feasibility of the proposed budget. The business plan elements that should be included in the proposal are (1) a detailed five-year budget and (2) a budget narrative providing explanations and assumptions for major revenue and expense line items. Also, in-kind line items should be clearly indicated.
Q: How much detail is required for the staffing plan?
A: The proposal should include a brief job description for each position proposed.
Q: Should information about partnerships, collaborations and subcontracts be included in the proposal?
A: Some proposals may include partnerships, collaborations, and/or subcontracts. While CPB will contract directly with a single vendor, information about key partners and subcontractors should be included in the proposal. CPB will be looking for appropriateness of the partner’s role, and how the partnership contributes to efficiently achieving the mission of the project.
Q: May we expand on the scope of services that are requested in the RFP?
A: The RFP specified a limited set of services in order to keep costs to a minimum. The proposal may include additional services of value to stations and/or producers; however, applicant must indicate how and who will pay for these expanded services.
Q: What sorts of references are required? Will letters of support be useful?
A: The best references will be firms or individuals who have relevant experience with the applicant. Letters of support should also help inform CPB about the applicant’s relevant experience.