Except as otherwise provided in the Purchasing Policy, most purchases committing the university to an expenditure of $150,000 or more require competitive bids. Where competitive bids are called for, a minimum of fifteen (15) days shall elapse between the time bids are advertised or sent and the time of their due date. Exceptions to this would be sole source purchases which must be justified in writing and have approval of the Chief Business Officer or designee.
Purchases over $250,000
In the event that the commitment exceeds $250,000 a written report is sent to the Regents. Commitments greater than $400,000 must be approved by the Regents prior to the issuance of a purchase order.
Purchases under $150,000
Purchases under $150,000 are also processed on a competitive basis, although in an informal manner - by verbal or written requests for quotations. Quotes should be attached to the purchase requisition in eSHOP for review.
Obtaining Quotes
It is required that you obtain a minimum of three quotations for purchases over $10,000. Verbal quotations are acceptable for small purchases, e.g.: purchases under $10,000. Quotes should be attached to the purchase requisition in eSHOP for review. Purchase Orders are required for purchases of $10,000 and above.
- UNO has a Purchasing Card program. This tax exempt card program can be used for small dollar (<$4,999) purchases of commodities from vendors/suppliers.