How and when are bids issued?

We issue solicitations when a purchase exceeds the direct buy limit.

How do I learn about bid notices?

You can be notified of bidding opportunities by email or you can view notices online.

• Sign up in Washington’s Electronic Business Solution (WEBS) to receive bid notices via email; (see WEBS instructions and search tips for more information)
• Visit the DES website to view bidding opportunities online

For more information, please contact:
Department of Enterprise Services
Contracts & Legal Services
1500 Jefferson St, 6th Floor
Olympia, WA 98504-1017
Tel: (360) 902-7400

How do I respond to a bid notice?

Preparation Tips

1. Ensure you read and understand the procurement document, all appendices, amendments, and other attachments.
2. Contact the Procurement Coordinator if you have questions.
3. Attend any pre-bid conferences or site visits.
4. Research previous bids and contracts.
5. Seek minority and women owned business enterprise participation.
6. Ensure your bid is completely filled out and signed in ink.
7. Include all required attachments and documentation.
8. Make sure you download the solicitation using WEBS to ensure notification of any amendments.  Vendors are responsible for checking webs and should do so frequently.
9. If required, you must sign and return a copy of each addenda before the bid opening.
10. Ensure your bid is properly addressed and delivered to our office before the date and time set for opening.

Determining Results

You may attend any bid opening. The only information that is disclosed at the bid opening is the name of the bidder and the time of receipt of the bid.  The winning bidder is not determined at the bid opening. After the opening date, the Procurement Coordinator will analyze the bids received to ensure they meet all terms and conditions and the bidder is capable of providing the goods and/or services required. The bids are measured against the stated award criteria and the bid that is most responsive to those criteria in accordance with the award formula will receive the award. After the announcement of the Apparent Successful Vendor, all bids are available for public review. Please contact the Procurement Coordinator if you would like to discuss the results.

Woman and/or Minority Certifications

Washington state encourages participation from minority and women owned businesses. For more information, call (866) 208-1064, or visit the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises web site.

Streamline the payment process

The Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM) maintains a central vendor file for Washington State agencies to use for processing vendor payments. This allows you, as a vendor, to receive payments from all participating state agencies by direct deposit, the State’s preferred method of payment.  If you currently do business with one or more state agencies and you do not already receive your payments by direct deposit, visit Receiving Payment from the State to sign up for payment as a statewide vendor.

Meet licensing requirements

• In-state vendors must be licensed with the Department of Licensing. Call (800) 451-7985 for more information.
• Out of state vendors should seek guidance from the Washington Department of Licensing for specific requirements.