Investigative Solutions Network-Maskwa (ISNM) seeks quotes for transportation providers to offer reliable and culturally respectful transportation services across Northwestern Ontario for the 2026 calendar year. These services are required to support temporary evacuation needs for Indigenous community evacuees affected by emergencies, such as floods and wildfires. The transportation provider should have scalable capacity, including both large and small vehicle options, and be prepared to activate services within 24 hours of notification.
Primary Locations:Thunder Bay, Fort Frances, Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout, Marathon
Requirements
We request quotes from transportation providers across Northwestern Ontario capable of safely transporting evacuees, accommodating medical and cultural needs, and offering flexible, scalable service options.
1. Service Locations: Preferred locations are urban and suburban centers in Northwestern Ontario, with easy access to major transportation routes, airports, and accommodation sites.
2. Capacity Requirements:
Capability to transport up to 450 evacuees at once, with scalable options for increased capacity if required.
Access to a fleet of large coach buses and smaller mini-buses to accommodate different group sizes and needs.
Scalability: The provider should demonstrate the ability to increase or decrease transportation capacity on short notice based on fluctuating evacuee numbers.
3. Activation and Response Time:
Rapid Activation: The contractor must be prepared to activate transportation services within 24 hours of receiving notification from ISN Maskwa.
Point of Contact: The provider must assign an English-speaking Point of Contact available 24/7 for coordination, customer service, and to address any logistical issues.
4. Medical, Cultural, and Accessibility Requirements:
Protective Seating: Provide protective seat covers for elderly evacuees and those with medical needs.
Medical, Cultural, and Religious Accommodations: Capability to adjust services within 24 hours to accommodate medical or cultural needs, including appropriate seating arrangements and support for Indigenous traditions.
5. Vehicle and Safety Standards:
Insurance: Providers must carry adequate liability insurance for all vehicles and drivers.
Vehicle Inspections: The contractor, in coordination with ISN Maskwa, will conduct pre- and post-use inspections to document the condition of all vehicles used, ensuring transparent records of any damages.
On-Time Performance: Providers must arrive within 30 minutes of scheduled pick-up times. ISN Maskwa will not incur charges if the provider is late, and alternative transportation costs will be the provider’s responsibility if the provider is a no-show.
6. Service Duties:
Airport Transfers: Transport evacuees between the airport and accommodation sites upon arrival and departure.
Daily Transportation: Provide daily transportation as directed by ISN Maskwa and the host community.
Event Transportation: Provide transportation to events and outings within 24 hours’ notice, as directed by ISN Maskwa and the community.
7. Trip Cancellation Policy:
ISN Maskwa will provide 12 hours' notice for any trip cancellations. No cancellation fees will apply within this timeframe.
8. Billing and Payment Terms:
Invoicing: Providers must submit invoices twice monthly (1st–15th and 16th–end of month), with invoices due within one week of each billing cycle.
Extended Payment Terms: Providers must be able to carry invoice costs for up to 120 days due to potential delays in federal fund processing.
