3-Requests for Approved Equals.docx

This is a Requests for Approved Equals form issued by Broward County in Florida for use in conjunction with competitive solicitations and invitations to bid. The form enables vendors to request approval of substitute products or manufacturers that differ from those specified in a solicitation, provided the proposed alternatives meet all stated solicitation requirements. Vendors must complete the form with their company information, contact details, solicitation number and title, and a detailed description of the proposed product or manufacturer being offered as an approved equal. The form requires vendors to reference the specific page number and specification requirement from the original solicitation and to attach relevant product literature demonstrating compliance with solicitation requirements. Requests must be submitted by email to the County's Purchasing Agent by the deadline specified in the Special Instructions to Vendors section of the relevant solicitation. The County will issue its determination regarding approved equal status by addendum and reserves the right to decline review of incomplete requests.

The form is designed to support the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau Department's Informal Request for Proposals for IPW 2026 Consultant or Destination Management Company services. Vendors should note that the Purchasing Agent will review all requests for approved equals and communicate decisions through official addendum documentation. Submission through the electronic bidding system is not permitted for these requests. The County's approval process allows vendors flexibility in proposing alternative products that maintain compliance with the original solicitation specifications and requirements, streamlining the bid evaluation process while ensuring quality and performance standards are upheld.