Request for proposals: Best Complete Streets Policies report graphic designer

Smart Growth America (SGA) is seeking an experienced individual or firm to provide design and graphic support for the 2025 edition of our Best Complete Streets Policies report. Proposals should be submitted to Dustin Robertson at [email protected] by 03/19/25 at 11:59 PM ET.

Project Goals and Scope of Services

Smart Growth America is currently drafting the 2025 edition of the Best Complete Streets Policies report, which examines the state of policies within the Complete Streets movement. The selected applicant will be responsible for the design and layout of the completed PDF report, which should align with SGA branding and overall aesthetic. The selected applicant will also create graphics and illustrations to visualize key elements of the report including but not limited to maps, depiction of scores and rankings, and illustrations of key findings. to be incorporated in the report. These graphics will be used to support the written data and analysis and developed in partnership with the lead authors.

Desired product

Smart Growth America will work with the selected contractor to produce a report similar to previous reports (e.g., 2023 Best Complete Streets Policies report, From Policy to Practice). The report and illustrations will be primarily viewed online in a PDF and should include any alt-text or other ADA accessibility best practices for images. The final deliverable will include:

  • The layout and formatting for report of approximately 20-30 pages of unformatted text
  • Design of a cover illustration
  • Graphics to illustrate key findings

Coordination with Smart Growth America

Smart Growth America will host a kick-off call with the selected contractor to discuss the specific nature of the graphics and illustrations and direction for the design and layout of the report. The contractor will also receive an embargoed copy of the forthcoming Best Complete Streets Policies report and related data. SGA will also provide photographs and other materials as requested and as they are available.

Budget

Up to $10,000 is budgeted for this contract. Cost will be considered as part of the proposal assessment. We do not anticipate travel or other reimbursements for this contract. The budget should be itemized and note the number of rounds of review included with the cost Budget should include a cost for the project as described above as well as an hourly rate for any additional graphics that may be needed.

Application requirements

Proposals should be succinct and include the following:

  • A short letter up to one page describing your qualifications, approach, and interest in the project.
  • A proposed budget for the project.
  • 2-3 samples of recent work relevant to this project’s scope with references for each sample provided.

Please submit proposals to Senior Program Manager Dustin Robertson ([email protected]), by 03/19/25 at 11:59 PM ET.

Desired qualifications

SGA is seeking a diverse pool of proposals. Black, Indigenous, and people of color-led companies are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants will be selected based on the following desired criteria:

  • A proven ability to effectively implement graphic design and cohesive layout in documents/reports.
  • A proven ability to develop visually compelling illustrations to convey technical information.
  • Experience in crafting or supporting data-driven reports with visual components.
  • Familiarity with and knowledge of topics, themes, and audiences related to Smart Growth America and its work.

Timing

Proposals are due on 03/19/25 by 11:59 PM ET. SGA will make a selection by 04/11/25. Work will begin soon afterward. All work must be completed by 06/01/25.

About Smart Growth America

Smart Growth America (SGA) is a national non-profit organization that is dedicated to advancing equitable, sustainable land use, development, and transportation. The organization empowers communities through technical assistance, advocacy, and thought leadership to create livable places, healthy people, and shared prosperity. We work with elected officials at all levels, real estate developers, chambers of commerce, transportation, and urban planning professionals, and residents to improve everyday life for people across the country through better development.

About the National Complete Streets Coalition

The National Complete Streets Coalition, a program of Smart Growth America, is a non-profit, non-partisan alliance of public organizations, professionals, and advocates committed to the development and implementation of Complete Streets policies and practices.

Complete Streets