Grant Writer

The Township of West Orange is actively seeking proposals for comprehensive Grant Writer Services, utilizing a Fair and Open Process in accordance with N.J.S.A 19:44A-20.4 et seq. The chosen independent contractor or firm will be responsible for providing expert professional consultations to identify and secure County, State, Federal, corporate, and private aid funds pertinent to the Township's diverse needs. The extensive scope of work encompasses meticulous research, strategic planning, precise preparation, timely submission, and diligent follow-up on all identified grant applications and programs. Furthermore, the successful vendor will be expected to maintain continuous communication and collaboration with Township Department Heads and their respective staff, offering guidance and assistance throughout every stage of the grant application and submission processes. A critical performance requirement mandates the acquisition of "New Grants" annually, totaling at least the vendor's annual compensation, specifically excluding recurring or entitlement-based grants. Prospective individuals or firms vying for these Grant Writing and Consulting Services must satisfy stringent qualification criteria. A minimum of five years of documented experience in providing grant consulting and writing services specifically for municipal entities within the State of New Jersey is mandatory. Bidders must demonstrate that they possess adequate staffing and resources to effectively execute the entire scope of services outlined in this Request for Proposals (RFP). Each proposer is required to furnish a detailed description of their business organization, including its ownership structure, organizational framework, and the duration of its operation under current management. Additionally, proposals must include a list of all similar engagements undertaken in the past two calendar years, complete with verifiable contact information for references. It is explicitly stated that a pre-bid conference is not a requirement for this solicitation. Detailed submission instructions require sealed proposals to be clearly marked "Submission of RFP for Grant Writing Services" and delivered to the Municipal Building, 66 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07052. The definitive submission deadline is November 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at which time all proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers. Bidders must submit one original and one electronic copy on a CD or USB drive. Compliance with New Jersey statutes is paramount, including Contract Compliance and Equal Employment Opportunities (N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27) and possession of a current New Jersey Business Registration Certificate (P.L. 2004, N.J.S.A. 52:25-24.2). Furthermore, contractors are responsible for understanding and adhering to Pay-to-Play disclosure requirements (N.J.S.A. 19:44-20.13) for aggregate contracts exceeding $50,000 in a calendar year. While not explicitly requiring bid security for this specific service, the general instructions to bidders include provisions for a bid guarantee (10% of total bid, not exceeding $20,000) and a 100% performance bond. All inquiries regarding this RFP should be directed to Panayiota Reynolds, Purchasing Agent, via email at preynolds@westorange.org UNLOCK or phone at (973) 325-4056.