UNDP Procurement - UN Development Programme Tenders

Overview

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network operating in over 170 countries. Its procurement portal at procurement.undp.org is the central hub for purchasing goods, services, and civil works needed by UNDP country offices and programs globally. Unlike grants, UNDP procurement is a commercial relationship where UNDP pays for services or supplies. The portal lists Invitations to Bid (ITBs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Request for Quotations (RFQs), and Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) covering technical consulting, IT, construction, vehicles, equipment, training, and much more.

What You Can Find Here

Invitations to Bid (ITBs) for supply contracts for equipment, vehicles, and materials
Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for professional and consulting services
Request for Quotations (RFQs) for smaller value goods and services
Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) - framework agreements for recurring supply and service needs
Expression of Interest calls for pre-qualification of suppliers
Procurement notices from UNDP headquarters and 170+ country offices worldwide
Supplier registration portal for getting on UNDP vendor rosters

Who Should Use This

Consulting firms providing advisory, technical, or research services to international development programs
IT and technology companies supplying software, hardware, and digital systems to UN programs
Construction and civil works companies for infrastructure projects in developing countries
Supply companies providing vehicles, equipment, medical supplies, or training materials
NGOs and research institutions competing for UNDP service contracts in their areas of expertise

How to Get Started

Step 1: Visit procurement.undp.org to search active procurement notices by country, category, or deadline
Step 2: Create a free vendor account on the UN Global Marketplace (ungm.org) for registration across UN system
Step 3: Download the full solicitation document (ITB or RFP) to understand requirements, technical specifications, and evaluation criteria
Step 4: Prepare your bid or proposal strictly following the UNDP format and submit by the stated deadline
Step 5: If awarded, sign the UNDP General Terms and Conditions before beginning work

Things to Check Before Applying

UNDP procurement is purchasing of goods and services - it is different from grants or project funding
UNDP uses the UN Global Marketplace (ungm.org) for vendor registration - register there first
UNDP procurement follows UN procurement rules including competitive bidding requirements and integrity standards
Late submissions are not accepted - ensure technical and financial bids are submitted on time
RFPs evaluate both technical quality and price - price alone does not win UNDP contracts

Frequently Asked Questions

Is UNDP procurement the same as a grant?

No. UNDP procurement is a commercial transaction where UNDP pays for goods or services. UNDP grants are separate and issued by UNDP program offices for project implementation by NGOs and government partners.

How do I register as a UNDP vendor?

Register on the UN Global Marketplace (ungm.org) which serves as the vendor registration system across UN agencies. Once registered, your profile is visible to UNDP and other UN procurement offices.

Can small businesses bid on UNDP contracts?

Yes. UNDP issues contracts of all sizes and specifically tries to involve local suppliers in country office procurement. Smaller RFQs and service contracts are often accessible to small and local firms.

What currencies are UNDP contracts paid in?

UNDP contracts are typically paid in US dollars, though some country office contracts may use local currency. Check the specific contract terms.

How transparent is UNDP procurement?

UNDP publishes all tenders above certain thresholds publicly on its procurement portal and ungm.org. Award decisions and contract values are also published for transparency.