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Trusted Connector Services

The MEDC is seeking proposals from one or more bidders to provide Trusted Connector services that identify, engage, and make referrals for hard-to-reach Michigan entrepreneurs and small businesses into Michigan’s statewide small business support ecosystem.


Background

This is a competitively bid RFP housed within the Small Business Services business unit, with an anticipated program allocation of up to $2,000,000 in total, with a maximum of $200,000 awarded to any single bidder.

Michigan has built a broad and increasingly sophisticated small business support ecosystem, with resources spanning business counseling, capital access, technology and innovation, market development, mentorship, and other forms of technical assistance. Yet the existence of resources does not ensure equitable or effective access. Many entrepreneurs outside traditional innovation networks, particularly those in underserved, economically or geographically isolated communities, may be less likely to enter the ecosystem through established economic development channels or may struggle to identify and navigate the resources most relevant to their needs.

Trusted Connectors address this access and navigation gap by meeting entrepreneurs through organizations, relationships, and networks they already know and trust. These locally and culturally connected intermediaries provide high-touch outreach, help identify business needs, increase awareness of available opportunities, make informed referrals to specialized providers, and remain engaged through the connection to help ensure entrepreneurs reach the appropriate resource.

Timeline

  • October 5, 2026: RFP release
  • October 14, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.: Questions from potential bidders are due via email to [email protected]. Please note: The MEDC will not respond to questions that are not received by the above date and time. In addition, questions that are phoned, faxed or sent through regular mail will not be accepted.
  • October 21, 2026, by close of business: Responses to all qualifying questions will be posted on this webpage.
  • November 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.: Electronic versions sent separately of each of your Technical Proposal and Price Proposals due to the MEDC via email at [email protected]. Proposals will not be accepted via U.S. Mail or any other delivery method.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Questions regarding the RFP should be sent to: [email protected].

RFP Details

Click here to download and view the full details of the RFP.