California RFPs
A solicitation asking vendors to propose how they would solve a complex requirement — evaluation considers price plus technical approach.
What is Request for Proposal (RFP)?
RFPs (Requests for Proposal) are the most common procurement solicitation type for professional services, IT systems, consulting engagements, and complex construction. Agencies issue RFPs when the requirement is well-defined but the solution is not, and they evaluate competing proposals on both price and non-price factors (technical approach, past performance, staffing plan). Federal RFPs follow FAR Part 15 (Negotiated Procurement). State and local agencies have analogous procurement codes.