Monetary thresholds:
- $50,000- $100,000 for Goods and Services (non-IT)
- $50,000- $500,000 for IT Goods and Services
- $250,000 for California registered Small Businesses (SB), Micro Businesses (MB), or Disabled Veterans Business Enterprises (DVBE)
The Informal Proposal Checklist (PDF) contains more information on monetary thresholds.
An informal solicitation requires a written Scope of Work (SoW) before contacting any vendors. The requesting department is responsible for drafting the specifications. How to Write a Scope of Work (PDF)
Please make sure to describe the product specifications in a generic way. When writing a specification, do not write specifications/requirements in such a restrictive way as to limit the bidding to a sole source or brand.
If a brand is identified as an example in the specifications, make sure to include “or equal” wording.
All vendors need to be sent the exact same SoW. If you make changes to the SoW, please make sure you communicate these changes to all vendors in writing.
Generally, at least three quotes or proposals are required. The SB/DVBE option only requires two quotes or proposals.
Related Forms
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