The NYC Catalyst Fund II Request for Applications (RFA) is an initiative launched by the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) to partner with investment fund managers who align with its economic and impact objectives. NYCEDC, a nonprofit organization acting on behalf of the City of New York, is allocating $25 million to this program, with individual commitments of up to $5 million per selected Investment Fund. The Catalyst Fund II continues NYCEDC’s broader mission of fostering economic growth, supporting job creation, and driving inclusive innovation throughout New York City.
Fund Managers are invited to apply if they are raising capital for Investment Funds that exhibit a strong financial return strategy while also aligning with at least one of three priority impact areas: diverse entrepreneurship, economic mobility, and innovation sectors. For diverse entrepreneurship, applicants must show a focus on underrepresented founders. For economic mobility, strategies might include small business finance, education, and workforce development. Innovation sectors refer to high-growth industries vital to the city’s future economic resilience.
Fund Managers will be selected based on several factors, including team qualifications, investment and impact strategy, financial structure, and historical performance. All applicants must demonstrate a credible track record, a competitive return profile, and operational readiness. Each Investment Fund must also commit to investing at least five times the Catalyst Fund’s contribution into companies or projects based in NYC, ensuring local impact. Applicants must maintain a physical presence in NYC, either through a city-based office or senior staff located in the city.
The program remains open for rolling submissions until January 2, 2029, or until funds are fully allocated. Key submission deadlines are scheduled quarterly through this period. The first round is due January 30, 2026, with subsequent rounds closing at the end of each quarter. Each submission must be uploaded electronically as a single zip file via the designated online portal, and the Chrome browser is recommended for compatibility. Proposals must comply with detailed formatting and component requirements as outlined in the RFA.
Questions may be submitted during designated windows, beginning with the first inquiry deadline of January 2, 2026. Responses will be published bi-weekly following each question deadline. All proposals are evaluated on a rolling basis, meaning earlier submissions may receive priority in the review process. NYCEDC also encourages applications from certified Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) and promotes equitable participation in its economic development initiatives.
For inquiries about the RFA content, applicants should contact NYCCF@edc.nyc. Technical questions regarding submission logistics should be directed to RFPRequest@edc.nyc. Detailed terms and requirements are available in the RFA issued December 8, 2025.
Funds must clearly articulate NYC alignment and meet all Material Terms and Conditions to avoid disqualification.
