How to bid on the FY27 Housing Ambassador Request for Expression of Interest from NYC HPD

What NYC HPD is buying and why it matters

The NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) is looking for community-based organizations to become Housing Ambassadors. These organizations will educate and help people seeking affordable housing with the application process. They will also connect clients with free financial counseling services through Ariva's Ready to Rent program. This initiative is important for supporting New Yorkers looking for affordable housing.

This Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) is part of the Ready to Rent program, which is a joint effort between HPD and the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). It aims to strengthen the capacity of housing organizations and social service providers.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

A pre-submission conference call is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET. HPD will answer questions about the program during this call. A written summary of the discussion will be provided afterward.

Questions about the funding can be submitted via email until Monday, August 3, 2026, at 5:00 pm ET. Responses to this Request for Expressions of Interest are due by Friday, August 14, 2026, at 2:00 pm ET. All submissions must be received by this deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for qualified community-based organizations (CBOs) that have experience or interest in providing education and assistance related to affordable housing. Organizations that can connect clients with financial counseling services, particularly those focused on housing readiness, will find this RFEI relevant. The category for this work is education and community services.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the RFEI, you can find it on NYC's Current Solicitations open-data list. Search for this solicitation by its PIN or title. The RFEI document provides a detailed description of the program, eligibility criteria, and application requirements.

To view documents or submit your response, you will need to search the PIN on City Record Online or register a free vendor account in PASSPort. Ensure your response is submitted through the correct portal before the August 14, 2026, 2:00 pm ET deadline.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review the RFEI document to understand all program details, eligibility criteria, and submission requirements. Pay close attention to the scope of services expected from Housing Ambassadors, including both direct assistance to housing seekers and connecting clients to financial counseling.

Participate in the pre-submission conference call on July 30, 2026. This is an important opportunity to clarify any questions you have directly with HPD. If you have specific questions, submit them by the August 3, 2026, deadline to ensure you receive official responses. Highlight your organization's experience in community outreach, housing assistance, and client education in your response.