Public Solicitations

Public Solicitations

There are two types of competitive bids, and one type of information request used at the University of South Florida:  

Invitation to Bid (ITB): A process that is best used when contracting for a commodity that must comply to a strict set of specifications. This type of bid award is predominately based on the lowest qualified bid. 
 
Invitation to Negotiate (ITN): A flexible procurement process that is used when highly specialized and or variable services or products are required.  Negotiations offer an opportunity for selected Supplier(s) to discuss their responses with an evaluation committee. The goal of this comprehensive process is for identification of  solution that offers the best value to the University. Only representatives of the participating Suppliers who are authorized to negotiate and make agreements shall be involved in negotiations.  
 
Request for Information (RFI): Used to collect information on the capabilities of suppliers in response to a need. This is a decisional support step for USF that may ultimately lead to the development of an ITN or ITB.  
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For Suppliers: 

Interested participating in a solicitation event? Please see our Solicitation Instructions for Suppliers page. Current opportunities can be viewed on the Public Solicitation Portal. Please e-mail the event contact for an invitation to view the event details.  

For general information about becoming a supplier, please visit our For Suppliers page.  
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For Departments

If you are considering any project that may require a Public Solicitation (ITN or ITB) because the total cost of purchase exceeds $150,000.00 or, the commodity/service is difficult to source please submit a Sourcing Request Form.

Sourcing Request Form

 
For a list of commodities and contractual services that are not subject to the Public Solicitation process see Purchasing Exemptions.

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For Evaluation Committee

How do I review supplier responses to a Public Solicitation Event?