Solicitation types
Request for Quotation
Also known as: RFQ
A short-form solicitation for straightforward, usually lower-value goods or services, decided largely on price.
A Request for Quotation is the lightest competitive process. The buyer names what it needs, suppliers return a price, and the buyer selects. Documentation is minimal and turnaround is short — sometimes days rather than weeks.
RFQs are worth attention for new suppliers precisely because the response cost is low. They are a realistic way to establish a track record with a public buyer without committing the effort a full RFP demands, and past performance on small contracts is legitimate experience to cite later.
In practice
An agency needs 200 office chairs of a specified model delivered to one location. It issues an RFQ; suppliers respond with a unit price and delivery date.
Related terms
See this term in a real tender
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This definition describes general Canadian federal practice and is not legal advice. Always confirm requirements against the official solicitation.