How to bid on NYC Groceries Operator(s) for NYC Economic Development Corporation

What the agency is buying

The NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) is seeking one or more grocery store operators, or qualified teams, to run up to five new N.Y.C. Groceries stores. There will be one store in each of New York City's five boroughs. Successful operators will be responsible for all aspects of grocery store operations, including product sourcing, merchandising, customer service, and staffing. NYCEDC prefers firms with experience in opening grocery stores quickly.

Key dates and deadlines

The Request for Proposals (RFP) was published on July 27, 2026. An optional virtual information session is scheduled for August 5, 2026, at 9:00 AM ET; RSVP by August 3, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Optional site visits will be held on August 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET in the Bronx and August 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET in Manhattan; RSVP for site visits by August 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.

Questions about the RFP are due by September 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Technical questions about downloading and submitting proposals can be sent until October 16, 2026. All proposals must be submitted by October 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is ideal for experienced grocery store operators or other retail food businesses, either independently or as part of a team. Firms should demonstrate a strong ability to manage all operational aspects of a grocery store, from sourcing to customer service. Preference will be given to those who can show a track record of opening stores efficiently. Certified Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents, click the 'View original source' link to open the notice on NYC's City Record Online. The full notice contains details on the PIN, pre-bid information, and instructions for obtaining the RFP documents. Direct any questions to the agency contact listed in the notice.

Proposals must be submitted electronically. Follow the specific instructions in the RFP for electronic submission. Ensure your response is uploaded as a .zip file, named with your company name and the RFP title, before the deadline of October 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.

Tips for a competitive response

Carefully review the RFP to understand all requirements and evaluation criteria. Since experience operating grocery stores and the quality of the proposal are key factors, highlight your firm's relevant experience, especially in quick store openings. Provide concrete examples of past successes in sourcing, merchandising, customer service, and staffing.

Pay close attention to the submission guidelines and deadlines. Ensure all required forms and documents are completed accurately and submitted on time. If you are a certified M/WBE, make sure this is clearly indicated in your proposal, as NYCEDC strongly encourages M/WBE participation.