Seattle's App-Based Workers Research

The City of Seattle is requesting proposals for mixed-methods research on app-based workers examining working conditions before and after implementation of the App-Based Worker Minimum Payment Ordinance, with proposals due July 20, 2026, and questions due July 6, 2026.

The scope requires qualitative and mixed-methods approaches including surveys, focus groups, interviews, and participant observation with app-based workers from diverse linguistic and employment backgrounds across service sectors (delivery, house services, moving, healthcare, shift work). The research must supplement quantitative data published in the Office of Labor Standards' April 2026 App-Based Worker data report and engage with specified subgroups in Attachment B. Data collection is due by July 2027, data analysis and report drafting by October 2027, and final report submission with all collected data by November 15, 2027. The consultant must conduct regular check-ins with the Office of Labor Standards team throughout implementation to incorporate feedback on survey design, interview questions, and analysis focus. The total contract compensation shall not exceed $130,000; cost proposals must be comprehensive and itemized with specific attention to language access planning and interpretation costs.

Minimum qualifications require at least three years of experience with qualitative or mixed-methods research and analysis as primary work scope and successful completion of one prior contract with a public or private agency for similar services. The contract term runs from October 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027, with a flat monthly rate plus reimbursement upon completion of specified deliverables. Payment is made within 30 calendar days of invoice receipt.

Evaluation criteria are experience and qualifications (40 points), proposed delivery of service (40 points), cost proposal (20 points), and potential interviews (20 points). The City reserves the right to negotiate with the highest-ranked proposer and may conduct interviews. A pre-submittal conference was held May 29, 2026 via Zoom. The procurement contact is Nena Beecham-Ali, Data Strategist, at ols_rfp@seattle.gov or (206) 684-8859. Consultants must obtain a Washington State Business License (UBI#) and a Seattle Business License if they have physical nexus in Seattle, and must comply with City ethics codes, equal benefits requirements, and public records disclosure obligations under Washington State Law.