February 2021: Bounty of North Dakota Opportunities
Are you looking for a new market sector to expand your business? Did you know each year there are thousands of opportunities listed through North Dakota’s State Procurement Bidding Opportunity website? These solicitations range from equipment to fuel to janitorial services to construction.
On the ND OMB website you can complete a Bidders List Application to receive notice of solicitations issued by North Dakota State agencies and universities. When you apply to become a bidder, you must list the commodity codes for the goods and services you sell. When state entities issue solicitations, they select the Bidders List based on these commodity codes. We’ve included a link if you need to search for your commodity codes.
North Dakota’s procurement team is under the North Dakota Office of Management and Budget lead by Sherry Neas, Division Director. She and her team manage and assist with all aspects of the procurement process in our state. Sherri said, “The State of North Dakota relies upon vendors to provide the goods, services, and information technology we need to accomplish our mission. Many state contracts are also used by North Dakota University System institutions, public schools, and political subdivisions. Getting on the State Bidders List is a great way to grow your business! Be sure to read solicitations carefully so your bid or proposals meet all requirements and deadlines.”
Why would you sell to a state government? Your business will gain government contracting experience, diversify sales, develop a niche, and establish a reputation. If you want a few tips on selling to a state or local government, APTAC provides their top tips on their website. GovTech’s number one tip to sell to state government: Get to know your market. Check out their additional tips. North Dakota PTAC’s tip: Understand North Dakota’s requirements, procurement process, and purchasing thresholds. We have also provided a breakdown of the purchasing thresholds.
If you are already registered with the Bidders List, check and update your company information. Is your company’s contact information current? What is missing, what needs updating? Check your company’s commodity codes list to be sure all the goods and services you sell are listed so you are notified when state solicitations are issued. North Dakota PTAC’s tip: Know your competitors; look for them on this section of the ND OMB website.
The State of North Dakota is always seeking businesses offering needed goods and services. Be ready to sell when the opportunity knocks on your business’s door.
As always, if you are not sure where to start or how to get organized, connect with the North Dakota Procurement Technical Assistance Center (ND PTAC). Our services are at no cost to businesses registered in the state of North Dakota. Register for our services.
Not from North Dakota? Find your closest PTAC on the APTAC website.