Little 5 Points Retail Recruitment & Economic Development Initiative REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

Little 5 Points Business Improvement District: Retail Recruitment & Business Attraction Strategy

Issue Date: 6/25/26

Proposal Due Date: 7/30/26

Project Budget: $10,000 – $25,000

Contact: lauren@l5pcid.com

Introduction

The Little 5 Points Business Improvement District (BID) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to develop and implement a district-wide Retail Recruitment and Business Attraction Strategy.

Little 5 Points is one of Atlanta's most iconic commercial districts, known for its independent businesses, arts and culture, music venues, restaurants, and distinctive neighborhood character. The district also includes office space and multifamily property as well as several key undeveloped tracts of property. The BID seeks to strengthen the district's economic vitality by attracting businesses that complement and enhance the existing commercial ecosystem.

The BID is interested in identifying qualified consultants, economic development firms, retail recruitment specialists, or commercial real estate advisory teams capable of creating a proactive business recruitment program focused on long-term district success.

Project Goals

The selected consultant will assist the BID in:

  • Marketing Little 5 Points as a destination for retailers, restaurants, entertainment operators, and experiential businesses.

  • Reducing commercial vacancies throughout the district.

  • Attracting businesses that align with the identity and character of Little 5 Points.

  • Increasing foot traffic and economic activity.

  • Supporting property owners and existing merchants.

  • Strengthening property values and sales tax generation.

  • Creating tools and strategies that can be utilized by the BID on an ongoing basis.

Scope of Services

The selected consultant shall provide services that may include, but are not limited to:

Market Analysis

  • Assessment of current market conditions.

  • Evaluation of existing tenant mix.

  • Vacancy analysis.

  • Competitive analysis of comparable districts.

  • Identification of opportunities and challenges within the district.

Target Business Recruitment Strategy

Develop recommendations for target business categories, including:

  • Independent retailers

  • Chef-driven restaurants

  • Entertainment operators

  • Experiential retail concepts

  • Creative businesses

  • Arts and cultural uses

  • Specialty food and beverage operators

  • Other uses that support the district vision

Business Recruitment Materials

Develop professional recruitment materials, including:

"Why Little 5 Points?" Package

A business recruitment package highlighting:

  • Demographics

  • Trade area characteristics

  • Traffic counts

  • Consumer spending data

  • District amenities

  • Cultural assets

  • Success stories

Leasing Materials

  • District-wide availability brochure

  • Property inventory summary

  • Marketing materials for prospective businesses

Marketing & Outreach Strategy

Develop recommendations for:

  • Retail recruitment website

  • Social media campaigns

  • Commercial real estate outreach

  • Industry publication advertising

  • Targeted marketing campaigns

  • Conference participation opportunities

Broker Outreach Program

Develop and implement outreach efforts to:

  • Atlanta-area commercial brokers

  • Retail tenant representatives

  • Restaurant site selectors

  • Economic development organizations

  • Commercial real estate professionals

Business Prospect Identification

Develop a list of target businesses and operators that would be strong candidates for recruitment to Little 5 Points.

The BID expects identification of potential prospects within targeted categories and recommendations regarding outreach strategy.

Deliverables

At a minimum, proposals should include the following deliverables:

  1. Market Analysis Report

  2. Retail Recruitment Strategy

  3. "Why Little 5 Points?" Recruitment Package

  4. District Leasing Brochure

  5. Broker Outreach Plan

  6. Target Business Prospect List

  7. Marketing and Communications Recommendations

  8. Final Presentation to the BID Board

Optional deliverables may include:

  • Recruitment website development

  • Ongoing recruitment support

  • Conference representation

  • Direct business outreach services

Consultant Qualifications

Proposers should demonstrate experience in one or more of the following:

  • Economic development

  • Retail recruitment

  • Downtown development

  • Commercial real estate

  • Business attraction strategies

  • Placemaking initiatives

  • Main Street or BID consulting

Preference may be given to firms with experience working with:

  • Business Improvement Districts

  • Community Improvement Districts

  • Downtown Development Authorities

  • Municipalities

  • Urban commercial districts

Proposal Requirements

Proposals should include:

  • Firm overview

  • Relevant experience

  • Team qualifications

  • Similar project examples

  • Proposed scope and methodology

  • Schedule

  • Deliverables

  • Fee proposal

  • References

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals may be evaluated based upon:

  • Relevant experience

  • Understanding of Little 5 Points

  • Proposed methodology

  • Creativity and innovation

  • Qualifications of project team

  • Cost effectiveness

  • Ability to achieve measurable outcomes

Desired Outcomes

The BID seeks a consultant that can help attract businesses that strengthen the identity of Little 5 Points while supporting long-term economic growth.

Success will not be measured solely by vacancy reduction but by the recruitment of businesses that contribute to the district's unique culture, increase foot traffic, support existing merchants, and enhance the overall vitality of the Little 5 Points business community.

The Little 5 Points BID reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to negotiate scope, fees, and deliverables with the selected consultant.