How do I contact city departments and or buyers to introduce my company?
All sales visits will require an appointment during normal business hours.
May I receive or send a bid package by fax?
Only Informal bid responses under $50,000 may be submitted by fax.
Who originates the requirement for an Invitation to Bid or Request for Proposal?
Normally the using agency submits a requisition to Procurement Services for a specific requirement.
How are small purchases handled?
City agencies have been delegated authority for small purchases up to and including $5,000.
For purchases of $5,000 and under, a non-competitive decentralized Purchase Order (PD) is used.
For purchases over $5,000 and up to and including 49,999 three written quotes are required, with one quote being from a
minority business.
Does the Purchasing Department buy for all City offices?
The Department of Procurement Services has the responsibility to purchase or lease all supplies, materials, equipment, and
contractual services for the use of the City and its Agencies, as needed.
We do not procure services or commodities for Richmond City Schools.
Does the city give bid results over the telephone?
Check our Bids and Proposals website for bid results.
Is preferential treatment granted to emerging small businesses and/or minority business enterprises?
It is the policy of the City of Richmond to increase the number of minorities who participate meaningfully in all City
contracts.
To this end, the City uses goals and encourages good faith efforts by all parties who engage in governmental contracting. We are strongly
committed to the utilization of minority firms/individuals for all goods and services.
We provide all firms equal access to the procurement process, regardless of race or nationality.
The Office of Minority Business Development assists firms in doing
business with us.
What project dollar amount requires a formal bid?
All goods, services, insurance and construction estimated to cost more than $50,000 will be subject to a formal bid or
request for proposals.
Will the city send a bid package by overnight mail to a vendor?
Yes, but the Vendor must provide an account number to obtain this service.
When are non-renewable contracts rebid?
It is our normal practice to rebid about three months prior to the expiration of the current contract.
How long will my firm remain on the City's bidder mailing list?
If you are an active vendor, you will remain on the list.
Who is the purchasing agent for the city?
The Director of Procurement Services for the City of Richmond is the purchasing agent.
How does the city advertise solicitations?
Any solicitations over $50,000 are subject to the following advertising requirements:
How do I get information regarding previous contracts?
You may request information from Procurement Services through the Freedom of
Information Act.
