REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

 
 

Request for Proposals: Website Redesign Project

NAMI Chicago is seeking a creative and experienced marketing and communications partner to lead a full redesign of our website, built on Squarespace. This project will focus on improving user experience, streamlining content, strengthening our brand identity, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The selected partner will support visual design, content refinement, technical optimization, and site development.

  • Deadline to Submit: Monday, August 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM CST

  • Project Timeline: August – November 2025

  • Budget Range: $45,000 – $60,000

  • Platform: Squarespace

Download the full RFP [here].
Questions and submissions can be directed to Elena Ivanova at elena@namichicago.org.

Q&A Session

We will be hosting a virtual Q&A session for interested firms on Tuesday, August 5 at 10:00 AM CST. This session is an opportunity to ask clarifying questions about the RFP process, scope, and timeline.

To receive the call details, please email Elena Ivanova at elena@namichicago.org with the subject line “RFP Q&A Session.”

 
 

Website Redesign RFP – Frequently Asked Question 
August 1, 2025 
 

  1. Why was Squarespace selected as the preferred platform? Do proposals have to use Squarespace? 

    Our current website is built on Squarespace, and our preference to stay on that platform is primarily due to cost-efficiency, ease of use, and long-term internal maintenance. However, we are open to other CMS options if you believe a different platform would provide significant long-term value while staying within the project’s budget and timeline. 

    What we’re not looking for is a highly customized solution that requires ongoing developer support. Our goal is to enhance functionality while keeping the site easy to maintain in-house.

  2. Will I be disqualified if I don’t propose a Squarespace solution? 

    No. Proposals that use platforms other than Squarespace will be considered as long as they align with the goals of the project and include a thoughtful justification. 

    If you propose a different platform, please include a clear rationale, expected benefits, and any implications for cost, timeline, and long-term sustainability. 

  3. What if I already submitted a Squarespace-based proposal? 

    There is no need to revise your proposal unless you choose to. Squarespace-based proposals remain fully eligible for consideration. 

  4. Does the Design & Brand Refresh include new colors or a new logo? 

    No, our primary colors and logo will remain the same. We do have a brand guide, but many of our program areas need additional support to reflect that identity. The goal of the refresh is to bring greater consistency and cohesion across the site — using typography, iconography, visual elements, and tone — so that our visual brand comes to life across all key program areas. 

  5. Will NAMI Chicago provide the website content, or should we plan for hands-on content and SEO support? 

    Our team will provide the majority of the content. We want to maintain control of the messaging and tone, but we’re absolutely looking for a thought partner who can help refine that content and provide guidance on SEO best practices. 

  6. Is the November launch date firm? Are there key moments to consider? 

    The November launch date is firm. We're planning a major marketing campaign for the holidays, along with our annual appeal, and want the website up and running by then. We’re flexible with post-launch items like testing, troubleshooting, and delivery of the website manual. Those can be completed in December, if needed. 

  7. Are there specific third-party integrations currently in use and are they functioning well or are you looking to set those up from scratch? 

    Yes, we currently use several third-party integrations on our Squarespace site, including DonorDrive, Mailchimp, and Five9. These are live and functioning, but there’s definitely room for improvement in how they’re integrated and presented. If we move to a new platform, we’d want to ensure these tools are carried over and optimized within the new environment. 

  8. What are you looking for in a creative partner? 

    We’re looking for a partner who brings both technical expertise and a deep understanding of our audience, which is individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, often during times of distress. It's also essential that the design and branding feel aligned with our mission and values. We want our website to be both functional and grounded in empathy, helping people feel supported and understood.