Mission & Values
The Purchasing & Procurement Department is responsible for acquiring quality goods and services for the City in a manner that is fair, transparent, and fiscally responsible. Our mission is to support City departments and the public by ensuring that all purchasing activities comply with applicable laws, promote open and competitive markets, and uphold the highest ethical standards.
Our Committement
- Transparency and accountability in all procurement activities
- Fair and open competition
- Responsible stewardship of public funds
- Ethical conduct and compliance with governing laws
- Providing equal access to business opportunities
Our Responsibilities
- Manages the competitive solicitation process for goods, services, and construction
- Establishes and enforces purchasing policies and procedures
- Ensures compliance with City ordinances and state and federal procurement laws
- Provides guidance and support to City departments on purchasing matters
- Maintains official procurement records and contract documentation
Bids, RFPs & Solicitations
Vendors
The City welcomes businesses of all sizes and encourages vendors to participate in the procurement process. Our goal is to provide a fair, open, and competitive environment for all suppliers seeking to do business with the City.
How to Become a Vendor
Vendors are required to complete the City’s vendor registration process after being awarded a contract.
To do business with the City, vendors must complete the following steps:
- Register as a vendor through the City’s vendor portal.
- Submit required documentation, which may include a W-9, business license, proof of insurance, and applicable certifications
- Review and comply with the City’s purchasing policies, terms, and conditions
Vendor Resources
The City provides resources to help vendors successfully navigate the procurement process, including:
Policies, Compliance & Resources
Purchasing Policies & Procedures
The City’s purchasing policies and procedures establish consistent standards for acquiring goods and services. These policies define procurement methods, approval authorities, spending thresholds, and requirements for competitive bidding.
Legal Framework
All purchasing activities are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, including:
- City ordinances and resolutions
- State procurement statutes and administrative rules
- Federal procurement requirements, when applicable
Vendors and City departments are responsible for understanding and complying with these requirements throughout the procurement process.
Ethics, Transparency & Compliance
The City is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards in public procurement. Safeguards are in place to promote fairness, prevent conflicts of interest, and protect the integrity of the purchasing process.
Forms & Documents
This section serves as a central repository for commonly used purchasing and contract-related forms, which may include:
Vendors are encouraged to use the most current versions of all forms and documents and to contact the Purchasing & Procurement Department with questions regarding requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
All active bid opportunities, including Invitations to Bid (ITBs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), are posted on the City’s official procurement or bid portal. Vendors must register on the portal to view documents, receive updates, and submit responses electronically.
No. Late bids or proposals cannot be accepted under any circumstances. Submission deadlines are strictly enforced to ensure fairness and transparency. Vendors are encouraged to submit responses well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical or delivery issues.
Each solicitation identifies a designated Purchasing contact person. All questions must be directed to that individual and submitted in the manner specified in the solicitation documents. Contacting other City staff regarding an active solicitation may result in disqualification.
Need Assistance?
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST
RFPMart City Hall
2nd Floor
123 Main Street
Austin, TX 78759