Downtown Programming

The City of Madison Office of Business Resources is requesting proposals for Downtown Programming services for 2027 under RFP 15056, with proposals due August 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The City maintains a local preference purchasing policy and encourages proposals from businesses owned by women, people of color, and small businesses.

The scope encompasses creative, inclusive, and welcoming activities and events spanning multiple months that encourage residents, employees, students, and visitors to spend time in Downtown Madison Sunday through Friday. Eligible programming includes arts and cultural activities, business and seasonal activations, community festivals, creative placemaking, educational workshops, family-friendly activities, fitness and wellness events, live music and performance series, and pop-up markets. Programming cannot include one-time events, private property activities, or Saturday-only events. The selected proposer will manage program development and implementation, event and activity management, marketing and outreach, and performance measurement.

The total budget is $56,000. Eligible expenses include administration services (up to 20% of total contract cost), artist and performance fees, permits and fees, rentals, supplies, and other specified expenses.

Evaluation is weighted as follows: alignment with City goals (20 points), creativity and quality of activities (20 points), organizational capacity and experience (25 points), budget and cost effectiveness (30 points), and local vendor preference (5 points).

Contractors with 15 or more employees and $50,000 or more in annual aggregate contracts with the City must file an Affirmative Action Plan and comply with the City's nondiscrimination and equitable hiring requirements. All contractors must provide proof of Commercial General Liability insurance ($1 million minimum) and Workers' Compensation insurance.

Questions are due July 22, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time, with answers posted by July 29, 2026. Proposals must be submitted electronically to bids@cityofmadison.com with "RFP 15056-0-2026-TJ" in the subject line. The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, cancel the RFP, make partial awards, and negotiate with finalists.