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Glossary · United States

Request for proposals (RFP)

A request for proposals (RFP) is a solicitation that asks suppliers to explain how they would do the work and at what price.

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Definition

A request for proposals (RFP) is a solicitation that asks suppliers to explain how they would do the work and at what price. The buyer scores proposals against criteria stated in the RFP, such as technical approach, experience and price, and may hold discussions before choosing the best value.

In federal contracting, RFPs are used for negotiated procurement under FAR Part 15. State and local governments use RFPs for services and technology where quality matters as much as price.

How it differs

  1. 01

    vs. Invitation for bids (IFB / ITB)

    An IFB awards on price to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder with no discussions; an RFP weighs non-price factors and allows negotiation. What is IFB?

  2. 02

    vs. Request for quotation (RFQ)

    An RFQ asks for a price on a defined need; an RFP asks for an approach as well as a price. What is RFQ?

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Related terms

Questions

What does RFP mean in procurement?

A request for proposals (RFP) is a solicitation that asks suppliers to explain how they would do the work and at what price. The buyer scores proposals against criteria stated in the RFP, such as technical approach, experience and price, and may hold discussions before choosing the best value.

What is the difference between RFP and IFB?

An IFB awards on price to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder with no discussions; an RFP weighs non-price factors and allows negotiation.

What is the difference between RFP and RFQ?

An RFQ asks for a price on a defined need; an RFP asks for an approach as well as a price.

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