The Philadelphia Department of Commerce’s Taking Care of Business Program seeks qualified non-profit applicants to provide regularly scheduled sidewalk litter removal within neighborhood commercial corridors. Organizations can additionally propose to undertake activities such as power washing and tree care that supplement their cleaning activities.
This opportunity will begin on July 1, 2027, and end on June 30, 2028, with the possibility for up to four renewals. Both current program participants and new applicants are encouraged to apply.
Current participation in the program does not guarantee continued participation. All organizations interested in participating must submit a proposal based on the RFP requirements.
All identified TCB areas are open for proposals during this RFP. Applicants should review the full application documentation for more information.
Program details
The TCB program funds nonprofit organizations to sweep sidewalks within commercial corridors and work with the City to address block-by block cleanliness issues like illegal dumping hotspots.
Some participating nonprofit organizations employ their own cleaning ambassadors to sweep sidewalks, while others subcontract with local cleaning companies. In most cases, cleaning ambassadors are hired from within the neighborhoods they serve.
All Cleaning Ambassadors are paid an amount equal to or greater than the minimum wage dictated by the City of Philadelphia’s 21st Century Wage requirement and participate in free workforce training, which can help them attain higher employment within their organization or beyond.
Application timeline
In-person briefing: November 12, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the OIC Center (1231 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19122). All potential applicants are highly encouraged to attend and will be required to sign in on site. Sign in to the briefing in advance.
Questions about the RFP? All questions must be submitted by November 24, 2026, the latest by emailing samuel.hall@phila.gov. Questions and answers will be posted on eContract Philly on November 30, 2026
Proposal deadline: December 18, 2026, at 5 p.m.
How to submit a proposal
Applicants must complete application through eContract Philly before the deadline to be considered for this contract opportunity. Proposals are due by December 18 at 5 p.m.
Applicants are encouraged to allow sufficient time to complete the application process to become familiar with the requirements of the eContract Philly interface, upload all required documents, and resolve any technical issues prior to the submission deadline. An Applicant’s proposed scope of work must detail how they will meet the service requirements or achieve the deliverables.
To access the opportunity:
- Visit eContract Philly.
- Select “New Contract Opportunities” from the menu on the left.
- Search for opportunity number: 21261019154520.
Questions about eContract Philly? Email eContractPhilly@phila.gov.
Other questions about this opportunity? Email samuel.hall@phila.gov and phltcb@phila.gov.
