DNSSAB and NDHC are requesting responses to this RFP, seeking concepts and potential affordable housing development opportunities to increase the housing stock for low-income individuals and families within the District. Within this RFP, Proponents are requested to present potential affordable housing development opportunities that would satisfy Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (“CMHC's”) Rapid Housing Initiative (“RHI”) requirements and timelines.

Successful Proponents will be invited to engage with DNSSAB and/or NDHC to proceed with development planning for their proposed project and seek funding under the RHI Project Stream. DNSSAB and NDHC are seeking Proponents with project proposals that demonstrate readiness to proceed with development and that comply with the RHI Project Stream requirements.

The Government of Canada, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (“CMHC”), has launched the Rapid Housing Initiative (“RHI”). The RHI is a $1 billion program to address urgent housing needs of vulnerable Canadians, especially in the context of Covid-19, through the rapid construction of affordable housing. The $500 million “Project Stream” of the RHI is to be accessed through CMHC via a competitive application process. Project Stream funds can be accessed by provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous governing bodies and organizations, as well as non-profit organizations. There are extensive project and proponent eligibility requirements under the RHI. The application deadline for the Project Stream is December 31, 2020 and all funds are to be allocated to projects with agreements in place by March 31, 2021. Projects must be completed within 12 months and all projects receiving RHI funding must be completed with occupancy permits issued by March 31, 2022.