The Department of Human Services (DHS) seeks an agency to produce an overall messaging and ad buying strategy for all prevention/diversion services and community resource programs under the Office of...

The City of Philadelphia Department of Human Services is soliciting proposals for comprehensive advertising services to develop messaging and media buying strategy for prevention/diversion programs and community resources, with proposals due August 4, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Philadelphia time and questions due July 23, 2026. The City encourages Local Business Entity (LBE) certification and Local Impact status, treating these as positive evaluation factors; applicants must complete the Local Business Entity Certification demonstrating Philadelphia business operations, valid Commercial Activity License, and staffed office within the city, or alternatively commit to employing city residents and performing work within the city.

The scope encompasses integrated digital and traditional marketing strategy, including design and collateral creation, content writing, social media planning and buying, and campaign optimization across digital, broadcast, print, and outdoor channels. The agency must deliver equitable geographic distribution of advertising, A/B testing capabilities, crisis response advertising readiness, and comprehensive performance reporting.

The maximum contract value is $99,000, structured as fixed price or hourly rate. The contract term begins on or about August 25, 2026, with the City retaining the option to extend with up to three additional one-year terms at its sole discretion. The City anticipates applicant interviews the week of August 11, 2026, with selection August 18, 2026.

All contractors must maintain active Business Income and Receipts Tax and Commercial Activity License accounts, obtain Philadelphia Tax and Regulatory Status and Clearance, comply with the 21st Century Minimum Wage and Benefits Ordinance, carry General Liability insurance of $1 million minimum and Professional Liability insurance, and meet applicable HIPAA requirements. Proposals must include acknowledgment of Transparency in Business disclosure obligations. Evaluation criteria prioritize superior ability to meet requirements, prior experience, quality and efficiency of solution, skill and reputation, benefit to small and local business development, and cost.