Using a Cooperative Contract: What to Check First
A cooperative contract can be an efficient way to purchase goods or services, but it is not automatically available for every VCU need.
Send the contract details to Procurement Services before relying on a cooperative contract.
Why cooperative contracts can help
Cooperative contracts may provide access to competitively established pricing and negotiated terms while reducing the administrative effort needed to conduct a new solicitation.
They may result from joint solicitations, piggybacking arrangements, or third-party cooperative purchasing organizations.
Check these before using one
- The contract was awarded through a competitive process.
- The scope covers the goods or services VCU needs.
- VCU is eligible to use the contract under its cooperative language.
- The contractor authorizes VCU’s use of the agreement, when required.
- A bridge agreement or VCU-specific document is in place, if needed.
- The purchase complies with applicable laws, regulations, and institutional requirements.
What cooperative language means
Cooperative language identifies the entities that may use a resulting contract.
Some contracts are limited to specific public bodies or government entities. Others may more broadly be available to higher education institutions, affiliated entities, or cooperative purchasing organizations.
A contract appearing in a cooperative portfolio does not, by itself, confirm that VCU may use it.
Where to start your search
Depending on the product or service, potential cooperative-contract resources may include:
- Higher education resources: VASCUPP and VHEPC
- Commonwealth resources: Virginia Statewide Contracts and VITA contracts
- National and regional cooperatives: E&I, OMNIA, Sourcewell, Equalis Group, NASPO, NPPGov, TIPS, AEPA, Choice Partners, and others
📌 Need help? Send the cooperative contract name, contractor name, and proposed scope to [email protected] for review.
Categories Procurement Services