Doing Business with the University of Florida

Each year, the University of Florida spends millions of dollars purchasing of goods and services to support the various functions here at the university. It is extremely important to us that we get the best possible value when obtaining these goods and services. We believe this can be achieved when there is free, open and inclusive competition. As a result, we are continually looking for and reaching out to identify quality suppliers that are available to provide goods and services and engage them in our procurement process.

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Eligibility Criteria for Registering as a UF Small Business

Eligibility varies by industry and is based on factors like number of employees and revenue.
More information is available on the Eligibility Criteria page

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Supplier Visits

All supplier visits to departments and academic units are by appointment only. Appointments are made during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm). Be prepared to discuss your company’s qualifications, capabilities, references, products and/or services.

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Getting Started

Currently, suppliers are only entered in the system once they have established a working relationship with a University of Florida department. Once this is done, you can complete the University of Florida Supplier Application.  Be sure to include you any appropriate certifications (i.e. small, minority, women, etc.)  If you have any questions about your supplier application, please email addsupplier@ufl.edu. If you are interested in contacting UF departments directly, view our Vendor Resource Guide.

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The Bidding Process

In accordance with the University’s Purchasing Regulation, the University conducts an open, competitive bidding process. Depending on the dollar value, and the scope of work of the order, the bidding process may take the form of an Informal Bid or quotes, a Formal Bid, a Request for Proposals (RFP) or an Invitation to Negotiate (ITN).

Informal Bids or Quotes are used for procurements with a dollar value up to $75,000. Informal Bids and quotes may be solicited verbally (eg. by phone) or in writing (eg. by e-mail, mail or fax).

Formal Bids / Proposals / ITNs are used for procurements activities with a dollar value over $75,000. Formal bids, proposals and ITNs remain sealed until the scheduled public opening.

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Supplier Selection

Selection of reputable and reliable suppliers is the responsibility of Procurement. Small business suppliers who have not previously done business with the University of Florida or have questions about engaging the institution are advised to contact us at sbsd@admin.ufl.edu, to schedule an appointment. The University of Florida endeavors to conduct its business in a fair and most equitable manner. Purchases may be made on the basis of various factors, including but not limited to quality, service, delivery, and price.

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