**REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP):**Catering Services Provider Opportunity:
Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB)

Location: Merritt, BC & Surrounding Areas

Competition Closing Date: Open until Filled

Term: One (1) Year Agreement with Potential Extension

The Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) is seeking proposals from qualified caterers, food service providers, Indigenous-owned businesses, LNIB Members, and local vendors interested in becoming the preferred catering provider for recurring Chief & Council meetings, committee meetings, Band General Meetings, and organizational events.

This opportunity is ideal for caterers who are passionate about providing healthy, quality meals while supporting community relationships and showcasing local food options.

The successful proponent will become LNIB’s primary catering provider for regularly scheduled meetings and events unless otherwise specified.

About the Opportunity:
The selected caterer will provide meal services for recurring meetings including:

Chief & Council Meetings• Bi-weekly (every second Tuesday)

• Approximately 8–10 attendees

Band General Meetings• Monthly (last Monday of each month)

• Approximately 30 attendees

Finance & Audit Committee Meetings• Approximately once monthly

• 6–8 attendees

Lands Management Advisory Committee Meetings• Scheduled as required

• Attendance varies

Additional meetings and events may arise throughout the year.

**What We Are Looking For:**LNIB is seeking a caterer who can:
✔ Provide dependable drop-off catering services

✔ Deliver healthy and balanced meal options

✔ Accommodate dietary needs and restrictions

✔ Offer flexible menu planning

✔ Prioritize local ingredients and Indigenous foods where possible

✔ Support recurring scheduling requirements

✔ Maintain strong food safety standards

✔ Deliver professional and reliable service

**Dietary Requirements:**Applicants must be able to accommodate:
Mandatory Requirements

• Tree nut free considerations (severe allergy)
• Lactose-free options

Preferred Meal Options

• Poultry dishes
• Fish selections
• Vegetarian offerings
• Reduced red meat options
• Fresh and health-focused meals

**Service Locations:**Services may be required at:

• Lower Nicola Indian Band Administration Office
• Shulus Hall
• Rocky Pines (occasionally)
• Other LNIB facilities as required

**Preferred Qualifications:**Preference may be given to:

• LNIB Members
• Indigenous-owned businesses
• Local vendors and suppliers
• Caterers using local ingredients
• Businesses with experience supporting meetings, community events, or government functions
• Vendors with demonstrated food safety practices and certifications

**Proposal Submission Requirements:**Interested applicants should submit:

• Business profile and contact information
• Catering experience and qualifications
• Food Safe certification and applicable licenses
• Sample menus
• Pricing information
• Delivery capabilities
• References (minimum two preferred)
• Description of dietary accommodation abilities

Target meal pricing is anticipated to be approximately $24-30 per person, while maintaining quality and nutritional standards.

Applicants are requested to submit one complete proposal package in PDF format containing a Letter of Interest, Business Profile, Sample Menus, Pricing Information, Food Safe Documentation, References, and any additional supporting materials.

LNIB thanks all interested proponents for their interest; however, only those selected for further consideration may be contacted. LNIB reserves the right to accept, reject, or negotiate any proposal received.