80126D0002-Challenged Based Procurement - Venture Forward: New Opportunities & Services for NYC Street Vendors

The New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) is seeking program partners to identify and pilot immediately accessible interventions that create equitable tools to navigate the current street vending regulatory environment and facilitate the expansion of existing opportunities and creation of new opportunities to support the economic stability of street vendors seeking legal work. The goal is to support the economic stability of street vendors while balancing the needs of stakeholders that intersect with the street vending ecosystem. Proposers should demonstrate proven experience in program development and management, familiarity with relevant issues areas surrounding street vending, and/or relationships with relevant organizations and programs in New York City that interact with street vendors. • The program should provide equitable tools to navigate the regulatory environment • The program should facilitate the expansion of existing opportunities and creation of new opportunities • The program should demonstrate a clear understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing street vendors • The program should outline proposed services and articulate the feasibility and sustainability of the program • The program should explain how it will effectively outreach to specific populations and market the program Some key points to consider: * The abundance of informal vending across the five boroughs creates sidewalk congestion, improper trash and grease disposal, and perceived competition with brick-and-mortar businesses and licensed vendors. * The program should address vendors’ need for lawful earnings and create paths that build on their existing skills and experiences. * The program should provide opportunities to transition to lawful economic opportunities, increasing participants' stability and providing a base for economic advancement.