Procurement Frequently Asked Questions

Are there workshops for doing business with the City of Kansas City?
Yes. There are free monthly pre-certification workshops conducted by the Procurement Services Division and Human Relations Department that cover MBE/WBE/SLBE certification and supplier registration. The MWDBE certification workshop is held on the last Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m., on the 4th floor in City Hall in the Human Relations Department. The SLBE certification workshop is held on the first Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m., on the 4th floor in City Hall in the Human Relations Department.

For more information or to register for either workshop, please call 816-513-1836.

To register online for MWDBE or SLBE application, go to the MWDBE Directory, click on Login (right side) to apply online. Existing MWDBE and SLBE’s can renew their certification as well once an account has been set up.

Can I register online to become a Vendor/Supplier?
Complete the Procurement Supplier Vendor Application, save, and e-mail to brian.hernandez@kcmo.org or call him at 816-513-0809 (office), or 816-335-5864 (mobile). He is the Supplier Relations Coordinator in the Procurement Services Division.

Does the City of Kansas City have a mobile application for instant access for Bids/RFPs?

• iOS users – go to App Search and type in KCMO online contract ad search.
• Android users – go to Play Store, click Apps, type in KCMO online contract ad search.

How does the City issue Invitations for Bid (IFBs) and Request for Proposals (RFPs)?
IFBs and RFPs are issued through postings on both DemandStar and the Online Contract Advertising Search (select from the drop down box to find different types of bidding opportunities).

If you would like to know more about new bidding opportunities, follow us on Twitter @KCMOProcurement.

What types of contracts are issued by the Procurement Services Division?
The Procurement Services Division issues Service Contracts, Design Professional Contracts, Small Construction Contracts, Cooperative Agreements, Facility Repair, Commodity, and Small Local Business Enterprise contracts..

Are there goals for MWDBE firms on City contracts?
Yes. There are MWDBE goal requirements for Professional Services and other services when the estimated cost shall exceed $117,000; and for Constructions contracts when the estimated cost shall exceed $300,000. For MWDBE certification, contact the Human Relations Department at 816-513-1836.

Can I add new scopes of service or goods to my vendor profile at any time?
Yes. To update your profile, contact Brian Hernandez, the Supplier Relations Coordinator, at 816-513-0809 with address, e-mail, contact name, and commodity code changes. To upgrade your M/WBE/SLBE profile please contact the Human Relations Department at 816-513-1810.

How can MWDBE/SLBE firms be proactive in seeking business opportunities with the City of Kansas City?
It is important to attend pre-bid meetings to network and market your company to the Prime Contractors, check the City’s Online Contract Advertising Search application for upcoming bid opportunities, and utilize the services offered by the Supplier Relations Coordinator and the Senior Buyers in the Procurement Services Division. We are here to help you!

May I view an existing contract in my area?
Yes. You can request a copy of the contract from the Procurement Services Division at 816-513-0850.

Where can all Construction Projects and Professional Design projects be found and how can I be notified when these projects are being issued?
Contractors can sign up at kcmoplanroom.org to receive notification for all construction contracts. Professional & Architecture Design Projects are located at kcmo.gov/bids. For assistance, contact Brian Hernandez, Supplier Relations Coordinator, at 816-513-0809 (office), 816-335-5864 (mobile) or e-mail to brian.hernandez@kcmo.org.

What services does KC BizCare include?

• Business specific checklists of the steps necessary to open for business.
• Information & referrals to City departments, agencies & partnering organizations involved in regulation/assistance to business.
• Advocacy between businesses & City departments to coordinate business-related ability to grow.
• Public access to City computers, allow customers to look up property & zoning information, access records, etc.
• Guidance & assistance for businesses in understanding & navigating the City’s regulatory licensing, permitting and approval process.

What is KC BizCare’s contact information?
Contact KC BizCare at kcmo.gov/bizcare, kcbizcare@kcmo.org or 816-513-2492.