Request for quotation (RFQ)
For simple, standard goods or services, often of modest value. Suppliers send a price for a precise list; the contract usually goes to the lowest compliant offer.
Invitation to bid (ITB, IFB or RFB)
For larger purchases of goods or works, with detailed specifications. The bid must first comply with every requirement; among compliant bids, the lowest evaluated price usually wins.
Request for proposals (RFP)
For services or consultancy where quality matters: studies, evaluations, training, technical assistance. Technical proposals are scored, then combined with price using a weighting given in the documents.
Expression of interest (EOI)
A first step without prices: the buyer looks for qualified candidates to draw up a shortlist. Only shortlisted candidates then receive the full documents (often an RFP). Highlight your references and team.
Today, Humanitarian Tenders lists 1,102 open tenders, including 401 invitations to bid (ITB), 313 expressions of interest (EOI), 49 requests for quotation (RFQ) and 43 requests for proposals (RFP).
Frequently asked questions
Does an expression of interest commit me to anything?
No. It is used for shortlisting. If you are shortlisted, you receive the full documents and decide whether to bid.
Which notice type is most accessible for a small company?
Requests for quotation (RFQ) and small consultancies: requirements and values are more modest, which helps build references.
These guides describe the most common practices. Each buyer has its own rules: the rules in the tender documents always prevail.