Request for proposals | NJ PBS | October 2026
NJ PBS seeks a qualified contractor to develop and manage underwriting and sponsorship accounts for its noncommercial television service and digital platforms. The work includes prospecting, account service, compliant proposals, renewals, fulfillment coordination, and accurate revenue reporting.
1. Solicitation details
Issuing / contracting entity: NJ PBS
RFP number and release date: RFP #001NJPBS, released Oct. 27, 2026
Questions deadline: 4:30 p.m. ET, Oct. 30, 2026
Proposal deadline: 4:30 p.m. ET, Nov. 3, 2026
Submission method: Via email to Ashlee Smith, smithas@montclair.edu
Initial term and start date: Six-month term to start, renewable to annual
Approved budget or cap: Commission capped at 15% and proposed monthly retainers must draw against commission. Annual retainer fees capped at $36,000.
2. Background and sales authority
NJ PBS provides public television programming and services in New Jersey. Montclair State University is the programming and services operator; the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority holds the broadcast licenses. The contract must identify the client, contracting party, and approval roles accurately.
3. Proposal response
Submit a technical proposal and proposed fee schedule. Include NCE television sales experience, if any; three relevant references; named staff and capacity; a market and renewal plan; compliance and approval workflow; first-30-day plan; CRM/report examples; conflicts; required station support; and all exceptions. Use nonconfidential examples only. Quote all fees in U.S. dollars. Assume no expenses.
4. Broadcast copy and sponsor review
Broadcast acknowledgments must comply with 47 U.S.C. § 399B, 47 CFR § 73.621, sponsorship-identification requirements, and station policy. The contractor must train its staff and route every sponsor and creative submission for approval before use.
5. Approval and editorial independence
NJ PBS and its FCC licensee retain their respective approval and regulatory responsibilities. The contractor acts as a sales representative and gains no programming or editorial authority.
The contractor must not offer or imply sponsor control over reporting, guests, viewpoints, program selection, or editorial decisions. Only an authorized signatory may bind the issuing organization. No material may air or publish until the designated station approver approves it in writing. NJ PBS may reject, revise, suspend, or remove material or accounts at its sole discretion.
This RFP does not authorize work or create a contract.
6. Contracting
The selected bidder will enter into a contract with NJ PBS at Montclair State University and must accept the University’s standard terms and conditions.