Identify Contract Opportunities
Use the Wichita Procurement Portal to find open bid opportunities posted by City of Wichita departments.
Click here to learn about other organizations in the Wichita area that post bid opportunities.
Learn about EBE Certification & Benefits
What is EBE Certification?
The City of Wichita is committed to ensuring equal opportunity, promoting diversity and enhancing economic opportunities for Emerging and Disadvantaged businesses. The City's vision is to enhance opportunities for qualified Emerging and Disadvantaged businesses by increasing their representation and utilization (measured by the amount of dollars spent) in the competitive base of contractors from which the City regularly purchases goods and services. Additionally, the City is committed to ensuring that all suppliers have equal access to the City’s purchasing opportunities.
EBE certification is valid for 3 years. More information on EBE certification can be found here.
What are the Benefits of EBE Certification?
There are 3 benefits to becoming EBE Certified:
1. EBE Certified Businesses receive net 10 day payment terms. The City of Wichita's general payment terms to vendors is net 30 days. City staff strive to pay all EBE Certified Businesses within net 10 days on City purchase orders and contracts for goods and services rendered. Providing this short payment term helps maintain cash flow to better manage and grow the business.
2. 5% RFP Scoring. The City of Wichita utilizes Request for Proposals (RFP) for professional services. The RFP process emphasizes qualifications, skills, expertise, experience, work schedule and price. EBE Certified Businesses and/or Subcontracting/Joint Ventures will receive a minimum of 5% of the scoring on all City RFP evaluation criteria. Proposals utilizing federal funds have separate rules for DBE participation.
3. Listing on the EBE Directory. EBE Certified Businesses will be listed on a directory on the city website so that the general public may easily find and use EBE certified businesses.
Types of Solicitations
Informal Bids
For purchases less than $50,000
Formal Bids
For purchases exceeding $50,000+
Request for Proposals (RFP)
For professional, consultant, design/build services, and selected products
Open a Business Bank Account
Open a Business Bank Account
For legal and financial reasons, it’s important to separate your personal and business expenses and open a business bank account.
Why should I open a separate bank account for my business?
There are many reasons why it is important to open a business bank account. Opening a separate account can help protect your personal finances from business-related expenses. In order to get paid by the City, you will need a business bank account. Additionally, many loan applications and other certifications require you to have a business bank account.
How do I open a business bank account?
The Small Business Administration (SBA) website is a great resource for learning more about opening a business bank account. Visit the SBA’s guide to opening a bank account for your business here.
Other Local Resources
Visit our Resource Library for more information.