RFP- Retail Strategy Partner: Neighborhood Storefronts Project at 1175 Cambridge Street, Unit #1

Background
The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) is seeking proposals from qualified firms or individuals to serve as the CRA's Retail Strategy Partner. The goal is to assist in launching and sustaining a 4,500 square foot affordable retail space along with approximately 2,100 square feet of accessory basement space at Unit 1 of 1175 Cambridge Street in Inman Square. This initiative is part of the Neighborhood Storefronts Project (NSP), which aims to provide flexible lease terms for independently-owned retail businesses, preserving the local character of Cambridge’s retail districts and expanding economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

Work Details
The Retail Strategy Partner will be responsible for various phases of work:

**Pre-Launch Phase:**
- Conduct market research to identify desired retail business types.
- Prepare a tenancy strategy including targeted mix of store types, lease agreements, and recommended rents.
- Develop a marketing and branding strategy to build awareness among potential tenants.
- Collaborate with the CRA and architect on project design.

**Launch Phase:**
- Manage tenant outreach and procurement for an estimated five retail spaces.
- Facilitate lease execution for retail spaces aligned with a grand opening event.
- Execute pre-opening marketing campaigns including web pages and social media outreach.
- Organize a grand opening celebration.

**Sustain Phase (up to two years post-launch):**
- Provide ongoing technical support to small businesses or connect them with third-party resources.
- Manage tenant re-procurement as needed to maintain a complementary mix of tenants.
- Advise on wealth-building models for tenants.

Period of Performance
The contract is anticipated to span up to three years, with significant activities occurring during the Pre-Launch and Launch phases followed by two years of support during the Sustain phase.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed at Unit 1 of 1175 Cambridge Street, Inman Square, Cambridge, MA.

Bidder Requirements
Proposers must demonstrate experience in leasing retail spaces to independent retailers and promoting or branding retail space within the past five years. The CRA encourages submissions from Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) or Women Business Enterprises (WBE).