Request for Proposals: Public Relations Services

February 12th, 2025 in General News

Title: Public Relations Services for Pick Ellijay, GA

Issued by: Pick Ellijay, a division of the Gilmer County Chamber

Issue Date: 2/10/2025

RFP Number: M0006

Introduction and Background Pick Ellijay, a prominent division of the Gilmer Chamber, is the designated Destination Marketing Organization for Ellijay, East Ellijay, and Gilmer County, Georgia. Known for its ample access to natural resources and agricultural experiences, Ellijay is quickly becoming a favorite vacation spot for travelers within the region. The Gilmer Chamber seeks to contract the services of a Public Relations firm to help position Ellijay as a top destination within the Southern Appalachians.

Scope of Work Gilmer Chamber anticipates the following services to be included in the scope of work, although this list is not exhaustive and may be subject to negotiation:

  • Strategic Planning: Development of a comprehensive PR strategy aligned with Pick Ellijay’s goals, including target audience identification, key message development, and channel selection.
  • Media Relations: Building and maintaining relationships with media contacts, pitching stories, securing media placements (print, online, broadcast), and managing media inquiries.
  • Influencer Marketing: As needed, selecting and contracting influencers to enhance campaigns.
  • Measurement and Reporting: Tracking and analyzing PR campaign performance, providing regular reports on key metrics, and demonstrating ROI.
  • Content Creation: As needed, developing compelling content for various platforms, including press releases, blog posts, articles, website copy, social media content, and marketing collateral.

Proposal Requirements

Agencies are requested to submit proposals that include the following information:

  • Company Overview: Information about the Agency, including its history, mission, size, areas of expertise, and client portfolio.
  • Understanding of Client Needs: Demonstrate an understanding of Pick Ellijay’s mission, target audience, and communication objectives.
  • Proposed Strategy: Outline a proposed PR strategy that addresses Pick Ellijay’s needs and objectives, including key messages, target audiences, channels, and tactics.
  • Team and Qualifications: Introduce the team that would be dedicated to Pick Ellijay’s account, highlighting their experience and qualifications.
  • Case Studies: Provide examples of successful PR campaigns implemented for similar clients.
  • Pricing and Budget: Detail the Agency’s fee structure, including retainer fees, project fees, hourly rates, and any other associated costs.
  • Timeline: Propose a timeline for implementation of the PR plan.
  • References: Provide contact information for at least three client references.

Duration The contract would be expected to begin no later than 5/1/2025 and would last for a duration of one full year.

Budget The total budget for this project is estimated to be between $30,000 and $40,000, encompassing all production-related costs. A detailed cost breakdown is to be included in the proposal.

Evaluation Criteria Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Understanding of Client Needs (20%)
  • Proposed Strategy and Approach (30%)
  • Experience and Qualifications (25%)
  • Pricing and Value (15%)
  • Overall Presentation and Clarity (10%)

Proposal Submission Proposals must be submitted by March 14, 2025, to Marketing Director Caitlin Neal, via email at caitlinn@gilmerchamber.com. Please direct any questions or requests to this email.

email caitlin

Other Information

  • The Gilmer Chamber reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.
  • The Gilmer Chamber is not obligated to award a contract to the lowest bidder.
  • This RFP does not constitute a binding offer.

We look forward to receiving your proposals.