RFI Youth Connector Web Application to Connect Youth with City and Community Programs

Work Requested:
The City of Seattle is seeking information regarding the development of a Youth Connector Web Application. The purpose of this application is to connect youth with city and community programs. The envisioned web application should:

• Provide a centralized platform where youth can easily discover and access over 150 City-operated or City-funded programs.
• Offer opportunities for youth to connect with arts, recreation, mentorship, paid internships, safe spaces, discounts, and benefits.
• Address the current underutilization of programs by improving discoverability and relevance for youth.
• Incorporate user-friendly features that align with how youth currently seek information (e.g., integration with or promotion through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram).

Who is Requesting:
This request is issued by the City of Seattle, specifically through the City's Innovation and Performance Team.

Background:
The City of Seattle invests over $206 million annually across 15 departments to support youth through more than 150 programs. Despite this significant investment, only about 40% of these programs are highly utilized. Many youth remain unaware of available opportunities, often experiencing anxiety and disconnectedness.

In 2025, the Innovation and Performance Team conducted a research sprint, engaging with over 400 Seattle youth to identify barriers to accessing these supports. Key findings include:

• Most teens learn about programs through school or parents, excluding those not in school or without a trusted adult.
• Online searches for programs are often frustrating and time-consuming, making it difficult for youth to find relevant opportunities.
• Youth primarily get information from social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, while government outreach often does not meet them where they are.

Contract Requirements:
Respondents should provide information and ideas for the design and development of a web application that:

• Improves access and discoverability of City and community youth programs.
• Is user-friendly and tailored to the ways youth access information.
• Addresses the gaps identified in the research sprint.

Instructions on Submission:
Interested parties are invited to submit their responses to this Request for Information (RFI) as outlined in the solicitation. Submissions should address the requirements and incorporate insights from the research findings.