Maryland is reviewing its PR and community outreach account for its $4B college savings plans.

The College Savings Plans of Maryland encompass two so-called 529 plans, the Maryland Prepaid College Trust and the Maryland College Investment Plan, which is managed by T. Rowe Price. More than 177K beneficiaries are taking part with more than $4B invested in the plans.

Budget is expected to be just under $1.1M for fiscal 2015 with about 80% of the funds coming from T. Rowe Price and half slate for media buys.

Devaney & Associates is the incumbent.

The state released an RFP on February 26 covering eight categories of marketing and PR services and inviting firms to pitch particular segments or the entire pact. Up to two firms, with an office within two hours of Owings Mills, will be selected for the work.  

Proposal deadline is March 25 with a pre-bid conference set for March 10 in Owings Mills.

A one-year contract is planned to carry two option years. View the RFP (PDF).