Invitation for bid
A bidding method used in the construction industry to solicit a competitive bid from a vendor on a fixed price contract, advertised publicly with sealed bids to ensure competitiveness.
An invitation for bid is a formal request issued to potential contractors to submit proposals for a project. It includes project details and requirements, initiating the competitive bidding process that ensures the selection of qualified and competitive contractors.
Used in a sentence
The invitation for bid was sent out to select contractors to start the bidding process.
Synonyms/variation
IFB
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Vet Contractors with Confidence: A Guide to Smart Bidder Selection
Selecting the right bidder is one of the most consequential decisions a construction team makes — yet it often happens under tight deadlines, with limited visibility into the long-term implications. While lowest-cost selection remains a standard practice across much of the industry, particularly in public and hard-bid environments, it rarely guarantees the best outcome. Leading […]

The Construction Bid Interview & Follow-up: Closing the Deal
During construction project bidding, the interview is often the last part of the request for proposal (RFP) process and one of the most influential. For teams that advance to the shortlist, the interview is the final opportunity to make a strong impression — and an important step in turning a pursuit into a project. This […]

Construction º£½Ç´óÉñ Development: Tracking and Winning the Right Opportunities
Construction business development isn’t just a response to deadlines: It’s a long-term strategy rooted in focus, visibility and timing. Delays, funding gaps and market pressure have made it harder to predict which pursuits will move forward and which will disappear after award. At the same time, clients expect more from their GC partners: earlier involvement, […]

Qualifications-Based Selection: Prioritizing Expertise over Initial Cost
For large or complex construction projects, owners and public agencies often use qualifications-based selection (QBS) to prioritize experience and capability over merely selecting the lowest bid. QBS involves owners choosing architectural and construction firms that are most qualified for the work based on their relevant experience, track record of success and proposed approach to the […]
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