2026 Request for Proposals – Outside NYC

The SUNY Charter Schools Institute (the “Institute”) announces the release of the 2026 SUNY Request for Proposals (RFP) to open new charter schools in New York State. The Institute anticipates holding one RFP round in 2026 open to applicants proposing to open new charter schools outside of New York City. Applicant groups must schedule an introductory Zoom or phone call with Institute staff and notify the Institute of their intention to apply via email to [email protected] by 5 pm on January 15, 2026.

The New York Charter Schools Act of 1998 (the “Act”) requires New York’s charter authorizers to solicit applications to establish new charter schools by way of a Request for Proposals process. The statute also mandates that SUNY issue a draft RFP for public comments prior to issuing the RFP. The Institute posted the draft 2026 RFP for public comment on October 16, 2025. No public comments were submitted during the review period. The Institute looks forward to receiving notice of applicant group’s intention to apply.

Note: Visit the Institute’s 2026 Request for Proposals page for the application and review timeline, key milestones and updates, and redacted proposals for each applicant after submission.

Keegan Prue, the SUNY Charter Schools Institute’s Managing Director for Strategy and Communications, joins the podcast to break down the 2026 Request for Proposals (RFP) for new charter schools. He explores the new provisions to this year’s RFP, explains the rationale behind the updates, and offers insights into the proposal review process. Keegan also shares practical advice for applicants looking to position themselves for success.