Successful Bidder / Proponent / Respondent

Successful bidders, proponents, and respondents are similar (but not interchangeable) terms that are used to refer to suppliers that qualify during different solicitation processes. The term “successful bidder” refers to suppliers who meet all of the qualifications for an invitation to quote (ITQ) or invitation to tender (ITT) process, while providing the lowest-price for their offered goods or services. Typically, only one successful bidder is awarded the contract or a purchase order arrangement following the bidding process. The term “successful proponent” refers to suppliers who meet all of the qualifications for a request for proposal (RFP). More than one supplier may qualify as a successful proponent and subsequently awarded a contract for a single project. The term “successful respondent” refers to suppliers who meet all of the qualifications for a request for standing offer (RSO), request for qualifications (RFQ), or request for expression of interest (RFEI). Additional forms of solicitation may take with respondents following the confirmation of their qualification.