RFP-PRFRC-StrategicPlan_REV81425

Description

Revision 1 – 8/14/25 Request for Proposals (RFP) Strategic Planning Services Paint Rock Forest Research Center Release Date: Response Deadline: Point of Contact: 8/6/25 8/29/25, 11:59 CT 9/5/25, 11:59pm Will McGarity, Stick Architecture LLC Introduction The Paint Rock Forest Research Center (PRFRC), located in Jackson County, Alabama, invites qualified consulting firms or individuals to submit proposals to lead a comprehensive strategic planning process. This plan will provide clear, actionable guidance to support PRFRC's continued growth in the areas of research, education, conservation, communications, infrastructure, and economic impact. This effort is funded in part by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and is designed to advance ARC Investment Goal 4 by strengthening the regional economy through investment in natural assets and biodiversity-based tourism and education. Background The Paint Rock Forest Research Center was established to advance ecological and biodiversity research within the Paint Rock River Valley—one of North America’s most biologically rich landscapes. The Center maintains partnerships with leading universities, research institutes, and conservation agencies, and supports dozens of researchers and interns annually. PRFRC has recently completed a 150-acre forest dynamics census in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institute's Forest Geo network, and is actively expanding its scope of work to include cave, aquatic, avian, and genetic biodiversity research. Large landscape planning and utilisation is critical to our mission. Given the growth of its programs and partnerships, PRFRC now seeks to develop a 5- to 10-year strategic plan that aligns its infrastructure, operations, communications, staffing and landscape with a bold vision for the future. Project Objectives The selected consultant will: ● Facilitate an inclusive, participatory planning process with board, staff, and stakeholders. ● Produce a comprehensive strategic plan, including vision, mission, goals, and implementation roadmap. ● Identify opportunities for sustainable growth in programs, facilities, and community impact. ● Recommend staffing and organizational capacity solutions. ● Develop strategies for communications, partnership development, and revenue generation.