Public Relations Firm Services Small Purchase

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is a self-supporting and mission-driven state agency dedicated to financing the creation and preservation of affordable housing in Illinois. Established in 1967, IHDA has delivered over $29 billion in financing to facilitate the purchase, development, or rehabilitation of homes for low- and middle-income households. The agency seeks to enhance its communication and media efforts through the selection of a strategic Public Relations firm that can provide strong strategies and insights for campaigns across various communication channels. Work Details The selected Public Relations Firm will be responsible for: 1. Developing strategies and insights for campaigns that enhance IHDA's earned media direction across all communication channels including print, TV, radio, and social media. 2. Establishing working relationships with U.S. media and key personalities to elevate IHDA as an affordable housing expert. 3. Identifying industry trends to generate coverage for IHDA. 4. Promoting Illinois’ value for developers seeking affordable housing projects through media messaging. 5. Securing targeted broadcast opportunities for IHDA’s key programs. 6. Developing leadership reach through speaking engagements and panel discussions. 7. Providing spokesperson training and ongoing media coaching for IHDA leadership and team members. 8. Developing key messaging frameworks and securing media coverage in local, regional, and national outlets. 9. Meeting with IHDA leadership to understand core business operations. 10. Supporting crisis communications as needed. 11. Providing weekly status reports on project progress and media coverage metrics. 12. Following IHDA procedures regarding media releases. Period of Performance The contract will have an initial term of one (1) year, with a maximum total term not exceeding ten (10) years including renewals. Place of Performance Services will primarily be performed in the Chicago metro area. Bidder Requirements Vendors must meet the following requirements: 1. At least two years of experience in niche industries like real estate or government within the last five years. 2. Existing media relationships in the Chicago market with examples of past earned media stories. 3. Experience working with executive-level leadership in public relations. 4. A physical office located in the Chicago metro area. 5. At least three full-time employees dedicated to this engagement.