Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are published as needed by DHHS program and service areas to seek assistance with the provision of a variety of services to NH citizens.  Some services can be provided more efficiently by agencies and organizations external to DHHS through a contractual agreement.  DHHS provides administrative and operational oversight and the actual program or services are delivered by the external agency.  An RFP is the first step to secure a provider for services under these circumstances.

RFPs are published on the DHHS website and in statewide newspapers and are usually sent to eligible agencies maintained on DHHS mailing lists.  Agencies that would like to receive notice of RFPs related to a specific DHHS program or service area should contact the specific program or service to request to be added to their RFP mailing list.

Once the closing date for an RFP occurs, a review committee evaluates the degree to which the proposals submitted for consideration meet specific criteria including submission deadline date and time.  The review committee makes its recommendation to the DHHS Director for that program or service area who, in turn, makes the final decision regarding which agency or organization will be awarded a contract.  The Director notifies the tentatively selected bidder of the choice as well as notifying non-selected bidders.  A contract is prepared by the awarding program or service area with participation by the selected bidder.  Once mutual agreement is reached regarding terms and conditions, the contract is finalized and a request for approval of the contract is submitted to the Governor and Executive Council.