Doing Business with Highlands County
Highlands County welcomes the opportunity to work with businesses that provide the goods and services needed to support County operations and serve our community. Whether you are a new vendor or an established business, this page will help you navigate the County’s procurement process and find business opportunities.
How County Purchasing Works
The Procurement Division facilitates purchasing activities in accordance with applicable County policies and procedures and federal, state, and local laws. County departments purchase millions of dollars in equipment, operating supplies, services, and construction services each year.
Procurement staff assist with purchases valued over $2,500, while County departments may purchase goods and services valued under $2,500 through a decentralized purchasing process, in accordance with applicable requirements.
Depending on the purchase, the County may use competitive solicitations, cooperative purchasing agreements, existing contracts, or other authorized purchasing methods. Sole-source and emergency procurements may also be used when permitted and properly justified under applicable requirements.
Purchasing Thresholds
County purchases are subject to different purchasing methods based on the estimated purchase amount and applicable requirements. The following table provides a general overview of the purchasing thresholds and methods.
| Purchase Amount | General Purchasing Method |
|---|---|
| $2,500 and under | No quotes required, or County Purchasing Card (P-Card) may be used, subject to applicable requirements. |
| $2,500.01–$10,000 | Obtain two informal quotes directly from vendors. |
| $10,000.01–$50,000 | Obtain three informal quotes directly from vendors or use a Formal Written Quote (FWQ), as applicable. |
| $50,000.01 or more | Formal sealed solicitation, such as an Invitation to Bid (ITB), Request for Proposal (RFP), or Request for Qualifications (RFQ), as applicable. |
Understanding Solicitations
Highlands County uses various solicitation methods depending on the goods or services needed and applicable purchasing requirements. Understanding these methods can help vendors identify opportunities and prepare complete, responsive submissions.
Visit the Understanding Solicitations page to learn about the different solicitation types, what to expect during the process, and tips for preparing and submitting a response.
Visit the Solicitations page to view the County’s active opportunities.
Finding Opportunities and Vendor Registration
Highlands County uses Bidnet Direct to advertise solicitations and provide access to solicitation documents. Businesses are encouraged to register for a free account and identify the products and services they offer to help find relevant opportunities.
Bidnet Direct offers additional fee-based services; however, vendors are not required to purchase a subscription to view or download Highlands County solicitation documents.
Visit the Vendor Registration page for registration information and instructions.