Bid guide
How to bid on the S.M.A.R.T. Contracts Initiative RFI from the City of Philadelphia
What the City of Philadelphia is buying
The City of Philadelphia is asking for information about a proposed S.M.A.R.T. Contracts Initiative. This initiative aims to create a new way to structure and manage certain public works contracts. The goal is to increase opportunities for small and local businesses.
This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a direct bid for work. Your input will help the City design the initiative and may lead to a future Request for Proposals (RFP). Firms in the construction and public works sector should consider responding to help shape future contracting methods.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This RFI was published on July 13, 2026. The deadline for submitting your information is August 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. All responses must be submitted by this time.
After the deadline, the City of Philadelphia will review all submitted information to inform the development of the S.M.A.R.T. Contracts Initiative and a potential future RFP.
Who this opportunity suits
This RFI is suitable for businesses involved in construction and public works, especially small and local businesses in the Philadelphia area. Firms with experience in public works contracting and those interested in new contracting methods should consider responding.
The City is specifically looking for input that can help expand opportunities for small and local businesses, aligning with their economic opportunity goals.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full documents for Solicitation B2727548, you need to go to the PHLContracts procurement portal. The bid's detail page is public and does not require a sign-in to view the documents.
To submit your information electronically, you will need to register a free vendor account on the PHLContracts portal. If you do not wish to register, follow the specific submission directions provided within the bid documents. Ensure your response is submitted before the August 12, 2026, 5:00 PM ET deadline. For questions, contact Janira Barroso at [email protected].
Tips for preparing a competitive response
When responding to an RFI, focus on providing clear, concise, and relevant information. Since this RFI is about an alternative method for structuring contracts, highlight your firm's experience with innovative contracting approaches or your insights into how contracting opportunities for small and local businesses can be expanded.
Clearly articulate any challenges you foresee with current public works contracting methods and offer practical solutions. Even though this is not a bid for work, a well-thought-out response can establish your firm as a knowledgeable and valuable resource for the City of Philadelphia in future initiatives.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from City of Philadelphia; the original posting controls.