Communications RFP Issued By Clean Fuels Ohio
Clean Fuels Ohio (CFO) is requesting proposals from communications firms to provide ongoing support for communication efforts with external partners for 2022.
About CFO
Clean Fuels Ohio is a statewide, mission-driven nonprofit organization based in Columbus, Ohio. We work to advance cleaner and sustainable transportation fuels and vehicle technologies that improve air quality and health, reduce pollution and strengthen Ohio’s economy. As Ohio’s clean transportation leader, we educate consumers, governments and businesses of all types and sizes, and provide direct analysis and technical support. We work with partners to develop projects while supporting policy solutions to overcome market barriers to advanced and cleaner fuels and vehicle technologies. CFO is the largest among a network of 80 Clean Cities coalitions designated by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Scope of Services
CFO is looking for work in the following core areas related to the organization as well as its branded programmatic initiatives (Drive Electric Ohio, Ohio Green Fleets, etc.). The selected firm will focus on the following goals:
1. Earned Media Coverage and Relationships
a. Secure earned media coverage of CFO’s work and announcements
b. Organize press conferences, create press releases and media advisories, and place op-eds as needed
c. Facilitate and gain media presence at relevant events
d. Provide strategic advice and counsel on media tactics, outreach to and interactions with the press, and other relevant subjects
e. Ensure CFO’s mission, employees, and stakeholders are well represented in the media
2. Assistance in Development of Branded Informational & Marketing Collateral
a. Polishing information, data, and other content from CFO staff to make it aesthetically pleasing for our target audiences
b. Designing graphics for social media, our newsletter, and website that align with our current brand and projects
3. Tracking Media Metrics
a. Work with CFO staff to identify relevant metrics to assess the impact of CFO’s external communication efforts
b. Create a monthly report of identified metrics that can be used to track success of efforts and alignment with deliverables of various CFO projects
c. Provide guidance, best practices, and tips to Events & Communications Manager on social listening and tracking tools
Firms are encouraged to emphasize their organization’s capabilities with these topics and propose any projects they deem appropriate. Proposals that provide a price breakdown of each service are preferred but not required.
Status and Goals
CFO has a working relationship with a small number of media contacts in Ohio and has an established social media presence on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Our primary goal is to increase the amount of earned media coverage the organization receives and expand our relationships with key reporters and media agencies. Secondary and tertiary goals include tracking media metrics and refining the aesthetics of our branded content.
Time Frame
Please submit proposals no later than Thursday, March 31st, 2022. Proposals will be considered as they are received. Upon selection, CFO’s relationship with the chosen communications firm will begin immediately. The anticipated engagement will be at least three months and up to a full year.
Proposal Submission and Questions
Any questions and proposals for consideration should be sent to Rachel Baker, Events and Communications Manager (rbaker@cleanfuelsohio.org). As part of the process, CFO may conduct interviews with firms after the proposal submission deadline.
