NIGP 96169: Reverse Auctions

NIGP 96169 Reverse Auctions, an Item code, captures state and local procurement of auction-based competitive bidding platforms and services that facilitate price discovery and supplier selection through real-time bidding mechanisms. Based on recent solicitations, state and local governments use this code to procure rental and service contracts across diverse infrastructure categories—from irrigation system improvements to odor control equipment—where competitive pressure drives cost efficiency and supplier performance accountability. The issuing bodies span municipal water and parks departments, with Austin Water and the City of DeBary, Florida representing recent activity. The scope of work centers on the procurement mechanism itself rather than a single commodity class; solicitations typically specify best-value or sealed-bid award methodologies with transparent pricing and performance standards that allow multiple vendors to compete on both cost and qualifications.

Recent opportunities show geographic activity concentrated in Texas and Florida. The City of Austin, Texas issued IFB 2200CSH1058 on March 16, 2026, for rental of activated carbon-based air treatment units with odor control services across multiple wastewater treatment facilities, with sealed bids due April 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. CT, reflecting a twenty-four-month initial term with optional renewals and best-value award criteria. The City of DeBary, Florida posted Solicitation 0315 on April 13, 2026, for irrigation system improvements at Rob Sullivan Park with a competitive bid process, a 45-calendar-day completion timeline, and an Engineer's estimated cost of $90,000. Both solicitations mandate pre-bid meetings, require comprehensive insurance and qualified personnel, and include set-aside or discount provisions—Austin Water offering local and small business discounts up to five percent and wage-theft compliance requirements, while DeBary specified no explicit set-asides.