GEAR UP Achieve seeks educational programming partners for Alabama students

Auburn University’s GEAR UP Achieve initiative is inviting qualified contractors and vendors to submit proposals for educational programming designed to empower Alabama’s ninth-grade students, their families, teachers and communities. The Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued on Oct. 16, with submissions due by Nov. 14. The program is targeting services to start in January 2026.

GEAR UP Achieve is committed to increasing the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. The program seeks partners who can deliver impactful services across seven regions and multiple schools, with contracts valued at $75,000 or below.

“We’re excited to partner with organizations that share our commitment to student success,” said Erika Rucker, interim director of GEAR UP Achieve. “Our goal is to provide meaningful opportunities and support that help students and families navigate the path to college and beyond. Every proposal we receive is a chance to make a real difference in our communities.”

Proposals should align with GEAR UP Achieve’s core goals:

• Providing access to rigorous coursework that prepares students for college.
• Assisting students in completing critical steps for postsecondary education.
• Implementing advising programs to support college aspirations.
• Increasing awareness of funding opportunities and helping families navigate financial aid.

Services may include character development, mentoring, literacy and math tutoring, STEM/STEAM workshops, coding and innovation, college awareness preparation, teacher professional development, financial aid advising, family engagement, career trades certifications, ACT test prep, FAFSA and dual enrollment workshops, college tours and fairs, and health and wellness workshops.

“GEAR UP Achieve is more than a program — it’s a movement to ensure every student has the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need to reach their full potential,” Rucker said. “We look forward to seeing innovative ideas and proven strategies from our partners.”

Interested organizations should submit:

• Company/Organization name and contact information
• Description of services offered
• Experience and qualifications
• Proposed budget (not to exceed $75,000)
• References from previous clients
• Documentation of any commitment to match funding

Proposals will be evaluated on alignment with GEAR UP Achieve goals, quality and relevance of services, data tracking and sharing timelines, provider experience, cost-effectiveness, and positive references or past performance with GEAR UP programs. The full RFP can be accessed here: RFP link.

Submissions should be emailed to gearup@auburn.edu by November 14, 2025.