Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund opens RFP for Strategic Program 6, bringing e-bikes to more Portlanders

News Article

The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) has opened a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Strategic Program 6, seeking partners to support a multi-million-dollar e-bike initiative that aims to expand sustainable transportation citywide.

PCEF is calling on qualified organizations to manage key program elements, including rebate administration, safety and training programs, and e-bike storage and charging solutions. A virtual information session for interested applicants will be held on Nov. 5 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., offering detailed guidance on each role and the application process.

The deadline to submit proposals is Dec. 6.

Five key roles will shape the program's implementation including:

1. a central program administrator,
2. a rebate processor,
3. a training administrator for e-bike mechanics,
4. a multifamily storage and charging pilot administrator, and
5. an evaluator to measure program outcomes.

Eligible applicants-including nonprofits, businesses, and government organizations-can apply for one or multiple roles in this $20 million, five-year initiative to expand Portland's sustainable transportation options.

Strategic Program 6 prioritizes equitable access to e-bikes, offering rebates to income-qualified households for e-bike purchases at Portland-based retailers. This includes higher rebates for cargo and adaptive e-bikes, as well as additional funding for essential bike-safety equipment. Additionally, the program will create a job pathway for 50 e-bike mechanics, ensuring that Portland has the technical support needed to sustain the growing e-bike network. This program is one of many initiatives under the Climate Investment Plan, PCEF's five-year roadmap to guide investment in community-led projects that reduce climate emissions and cultivate shared prosperity.

By expanding access to e-bikes, this program aims to cut transportation emissions while increasing sustainable mobility options for all Portlanders. To learn more about the request for proposals and participate in the Nov. 5 help session, visit the Strategic Program 6 website.