Micro-Retail Pilot Program

The City of Tacoma Community and Economic Development department is soliciting proposals for a Micro-Retail Marketplace Pilot Program under solicitation number ED26-0222F. This three-year initiative has an estimated budget of 500,000 dollars and is funded by federal Community Development Block Grant funds. The primary objective is to expand economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents by establishing a shared retail space. The selected contractor will be responsible for securing and managing a commercial location, recruiting and managing participating businesses, providing technical assistance and business development support, and creating a financial model to ensure long-term sustainability and a pathway for businesses to transition to independent spaces. Proposals are due by November 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time and must be submitted via email to sendbid@tacoma.gov or delivered in person. Submittals are limited to 20 total pages and will be evaluated by a Selection Advisory Committee based on a 100-point scale, with a strong emphasis on financial feasibility, cost reasonableness, and the credibility of the sustainability strategy. Awardees must comply with various federal and local regulations, including CDBG national objectives, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and Washington State paid sick leave and prevailing wage laws. Contractors are also required to maintain a unique entity identifier or SAM registration and provide a Certificate of Insurance prior to contract execution.