STATE OF MONTANA

MASTER MEDIA AND MARKETING:  SPB-RFP-2026-0600EH

What is the Master Media & Marketing contract?
The Master Media & Marketing contract establishes a qualified pool of pre-approved vendors that state agencies can use for marketing, advertising, public outreach, branding, creative development, media buying, video production, public relations, website development, and related communications services without issuing a full statewide procurement for every project.

Do we have to conduct a separate RFP to use a vendor on this contract?
Not necessarily. The Master Contract is designed to streamline procurement. Depending on the project’s scope, budget, and agency requirements, agencies may be able to directly engage an awarded vendor or conduct a secondary competitive process among contract holders.

Do all projects under the Master Media & Marketing contract require a competitive bid process?
Not always. Vendors on the Master Media & Marketing contract have already been competitively evaluated and approved through a statewide procurement process. Depending on project size, funding source, and agency requirements, agencies may be able to engage a qualified vendor directly or conduct a secondary solicitation among contract holders.

The contract helps reduce procurement timelines and administrative burden while maintaining compliance with state purchasing requirements. Agency staff should consult their procurement officer to determine the appropriate procurement method for their specific project.

What types of services can be purchased through this contract?
Services may include strategic communications planning, marketing campaigns, public awareness initiatives, branding, graphic design, website design and development, video production, media planning and buying, social media, public relations, stakeholder engagement, event marketing, and other communications-related services.

How do we determine which awarded vendor is the best fit for our project?
Agencies should evaluate vendors based on relevant experience, subject matter expertise, project approach, team capabilities, capacity, understanding of the target audience, and demonstrated success with similar public-sector initiatives.

Can agencies work with the same vendor on multiple projects?
Yes. Agencies may engage a vendor for multiple projects, provided the work complies with contract terms, agency procurement requirements, and available funding.

How are project costs determined?
Project pricing is typically established through a project-specific scope of work. The agency and vendor define deliverables, timelines, staffing requirements, and costs before work begins, providing transparency and budget control. Have a project in mind? Request a quote.

Can vendors help with federally funded outreach and communications projects?
Yes. Many vendors on the contract support projects funded through federal grants and programs. Agencies should communicate any federal requirements, reporting obligations, accessibility standards, or compliance requirements during project planning.

What should agencies prepare before contacting a vendor?
A clear project objective, target audience, timeline, budget range, key stakeholders, and desired outcomes will help vendors develop accurate recommendations and scopes of work. Even if every detail isn’t finalized, having a defined challenge or goal is helpful.

Can a vendor assist with strategy before creative work begins?
Absolutely. Many agencies engage vendors early to help define goals, audiences, messaging, communication strategies, and measurement plans before creative development or media placement begins.