Request For Proposals for Economic Development Strategy

The City of Santa Cruz is seeking a consultant to develop an Economic Development Strategy that aligns with the City Council Work Plan, General Plan, and other relevant plans and policies. The strategy should focus on the work of the Business Services division and include goals and initiatives that might be bolstered by the support of the Office's other divisions. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing the existing ED Strategy, evaluating the best approach, and developing the next Strategy. The scope of work includes conducting meetings with stakeholders, preparing a draft Economic Development Strategy, and finalizing the Strategy based on feedback from staff and City Council. Some key areas of focus for the Strategy include: • Business District Activation – retail attraction, placemaking, and activation • Targeted Industries – cluster analysis, workforce analysis, real estate needs assessment • Small Businesses – permit streamlining, technical services, marketing and promotions • Tourism and Hospitality • Housing, Infrastructure Development, and Asset Management The City is looking for a consultant with a proven track record of producing high-quality economic development strategies and reports in a timely manner. The consultant should have excellent communication skills and be able to provide economic and workforce data pulled from a variety of sources specific to the City of Santa Cruz.