Program Management Services for the University District Business Improvement Area

The University District (U. District) is at the heart of one of Seattle’s most dynamic and thriving neighborhoods. Home to the University of Washington, the U. District is a hub of innovation, education, and community engagement. The area boasts a vibrant mix of small businesses, restaurants, cultural venues, and public spaces. The U. District is a neighborhood full of opportunities. It is where long-standing businesses coexist with new ventures, diverse cultures are celebrated, and a strong sense of community fosters collaboration and growth. The neighborhood’s walkable streets, community events, and ongoing improvements in urban design highlight its potential as one of Seattle’s premier destinations.

The U. District Business Improvement Area (U. District BIA) is dedicated to supporting this unique neighborhood's vitality, growth, and community goals. Through various programmatic efforts in areas like cleaning, public safety, urban vitality, events, marketing, and economic development, the BIA strives to enhance the quality of life for all residents, businesses, and visitors.

As mandated by Ordinance 126093, Council Bill 119779, the Office of Economic Development (OED) is required to follow a competitive process to select a Program Manager every five years. This process includes publishing the requests for proposals (RFP), outreach to viable candidates, and a selection process that evaluates candidates based on criteria designed to identify a qualified and effective Program Manager.

To fulfill this requirement, the City of Seattle is seeking an experienced organization to serve as the Program Manager for the U. District BIA. The Program Manager will be responsible for overseeing the BIA’s operations and implementing its programs to ensure alignment with the community’s vision and goals.

This RFP is focused on hiring an organization (“Program Manager”) to oversee the operations and programs of the U. District BIA. The City of Seattle, through the Office of Economic Development (OED), is seeking an organization to act as the Program Manager and ensure the successful implementation of the BIA’s work programs and priorities as outlined by the Advisory Board.