Introduction:
Simon Fraser University invites responses from qualified non-profit child-care operators interested in providing child-care services in a new university-owned facility located near Central City Surrey, BC. This Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) is for information-gathering purposes only. It will help the University understand community needs, design considerations, and operator requirements before construction begins in 2027 and before any formal procurement process (such as an RFP) is issued.
1.2 Background
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is developing a child-care facility located near Central City, Surrey, British Columbia within an urban tower complex on the 8th floor which is expected to open in late 2030. The facility will provide approximately 40–50 licensed spaces.
The facility will be subject to all applicable City of Surrey zoning, building, and child-care licensing requirements. While respondents are not required to confirm compliance at this stage, familiarity with the City of Surrey Child Care Design Guidelines (2023) and Fraser Health licensing processes is encouraged.
SFU aims to design a childcare facility that reflects best practices in early learning, supports faculty, staff, and students with accessible child-care options, and strengthens community connections in the Surrey region.
Through this RFEOI, the University seeks early input from experienced operators to ensure the layout, design, and operations reflect real-world child-care best practices and community priorities.
For additional information please see attached Appendix ‘C’ file. The drawings and renderings are at the concept design level and are expected to change significantly
1.3 RFEOI Objectives
Through this Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI), Simon Fraser University (SFU) seeks to:
- Identify qualified non-profit child-care operators interested in partnering on the new university-owned facility in Surrey, British Columbia.
- Gather input on operational needs, program models, and design considerations to ensure the facility meets community and regulatory requirements. Be available to participate in the design and construction process of the new childcare facility as early as January 2026.
- Understand licensing, staffing, and facility readiness challenges that may affect implementation or timing.
- Inform the development of future procurement documents, such as a Request for Proposals (RFP). It is SFU’s intention to enter into an agreement with one legal entity only, should a future procurement process (such as an RFP) be conducted.
