REDC 2026 Transformational Regional Initiatives, Request for Proposals

ESD is seeking competitive proposals in order to select one (1) firm and/or team (“Consultant”) per eligible region on a “best value” basis to provide planning services for the Regional Economic Development Councils. Eligible regions include the Capital Region, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Mid-Hudson, North Country, and Western New York region. In 2026, each of the eligible REDC regions will develop an ACHIEVE proposal to compete for a portion of the annual $150 million in funding that is part of the REDC Initiative. ESD will select one (1) consultant per region who will work with the REDC and ESD to create their annual report and prepare an implementation plan for the REDCs ACHIEVE initiative. The preparation of the REDCs ACHIEVE proposal will require the consultants to assist in the selection of the regional initiative, facilitate discussions among relevant stakeholders, assist in the development of the implementation plan, work to identify and facilitate potential projects, provide data analysis on the potential impacts to the region and state if the initiative is awarded funding, prepare presentation materials, and other considerations as identified by the REDC and ESD. Business enterprises awarded an identical or substantially similar procurement contract within the past five years: HR&A Camoin Kyanite Partners Patterns for Progress Highland Planning Center for Regional Strategies (CRS) Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB) SDVOB Goal: 6.00% Minority / Women Business Enterprise contracting goals (MWBE) Total MWBE Goals: 30.00%