What Is an Invitation for Bid (IFB)?
An invitation for bids (IFB) is the solicitation used in sealed bidding. Bids are opened at a set time and judged on price and price-related factors.
IFB (invitation for bids) in plain English
In sealed bidding, each company submits a sealed bid by the deadline. The agency opens the bids at the time and place stated in the IFB and evaluates them without discussions, so your bid has to be complete and correct the first time.
Questions about an IFB must be in writing. Oral explanations given before award aren't binding, and answers that matter go to every bidder as an amendment.
Because there's no negotiation, IFBs suit work the agency can describe clearly and completely.
Related terms
- RFP (request for proposals): A request for proposals (RFP) is the solicitation for a negotiated contract, where the agency can weigh price against your approach and past performance.
- RFQ (request for quotations): A request for quotations (RFQ) is a solicitation asking businesses for price quotes. It's common on smaller and simpler federal purchases.
- Solicitation: A solicitation is an agency's official request for bids, quotes or proposals. It describes the work, the terms, how to respond and how offers are judged.
Put it to work
Looking for another term? Browse the full glossary or the government contracting glossary guide.