Process
Incumbent
The supplier currently holding a contract that is being re-competed.
Incumbents hold real advantages: operational knowledge, established relationships, demonstrated performance and no transition risk. Award notices and contract history make it straightforward to identify who the incumbent is before deciding whether to bid.
Displacing one usually requires more than a lower price. Buyers weigh the disruption of transition, so a credible challenge normally has to show either a materially different approach or a specific weakness the buyer already recognises.
The most reliable time to displace an incumbent is when requirements have changed enough that its advantage no longer transfers.
Related terms
See this term in a real tender
Search current federal opportunities and read a live notice with this definition in mind.
This definition describes general Canadian federal practice and is not legal advice. Always confirm requirements against the official solicitation.