Neighborhood Allies, through the Social Impact Design (SID) program, is seeking proposals from community organizations, local leaders, artists, designers, and small businesses in Pittsburgh’s underserved neighborhoods. We want to work together on projects that improve everyday life and help local communities grow through designs shaped by the people who live there. 

This program is especially suited for those committed to active community engagement and preserving the cultural, historical, and social fabric of their neighborhoods. Applicants must be open to participating in a co-design process where they collaborate closely with community members. 

Anyone interested in architectural design services that are not looking for community input should inquire about services through our Centralized Real Estate Accelerator program.  

PROJECT GOALS AND FOCUS AREAS 

Through this Call for Projects, we are looking to support community-led design efforts that bring positive changes to Pittsburgh’s underserved neighborhoods. Our key focus areas are: 

1. Empowering Underserved Communities:
   We aim to support projects that directly benefit marginalized communities by improving their quality of life and addressing their unique challenges through thoughtful and inclusive design. 
2. Co-Design and Placekeeping:
   We encourage active community participation throughout the design process to ensure that local voices shape the outcome. Projects should also work to preserve the cultural, historical, and social identity of the neighborhoods they serve. 
3. Advancing Economic Growth through Equity:
   Our goal is to promote projects that stimulate local economic development while prioritizing inclusivity, ensuring that design practices address systemic inequities and create opportunities for historically underserved groups. 

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Proposals are invited from:

• Community Organizations: Non-profits and community groups focused on neighborhood improvement. 
• Local Leaders & Artists: Individuals committed to using creative approaches to address community needs. 
• Designers: Professionals and firms interested in equity-centered design consultation and increased community outreach on projects in historically disinvested communities. 
• Small Businesses: Businesses in need of design services that are open to a co-design process. 

SUBMISSION PROCESS 

To submit your project proposal, please complete this form by 11:59PM on October 6, 2024. 

We will not respond to phone calls or emails.  

EVALUATION CRITERIA 

Proposals will be evaluated based on: 

• Impact on the Community: Projects should improve quality of life, foster equity, and promote economic growth in Pittsburgh’s underserved neighborhoods. 
• Potential for through community engagement: We will assess the project’s potential for a successful co-design process, focusing on how it can actively involve and empower community members throughout the design and development stages. 
• Feasibility and Sustainability: The practicality of the project plan, its potential to positively affect the community, and its likelihood of receiving funding and being sustainable long-term will be taken into consideration. 
• Innovation and Creativity: Projects that demonstrate innovative and creative approaches to community-driven design will be given special consideration. 

Please note: This is a highly competitive process. We aim to select at least one pro bono project in this cycle, with the possibility of considering additional projects in 2025. 

KEY DATES 

• Call Issued: September 6, 2024 
• Proposal Submission Deadline: October 6, 2024 
• Proposal Review Period: October 7-21, 2024 
• Award Notification: October 25, 2024 

QUESTIONS 

Please direct all questions to tamara@neighborhoodallies.org subject line “QUESTION: CALL FOR PROJECTS” by September 20, 2024. Responses to all questions will be shared on September 26, 2024.