Procurement (Non-AFP Projects): Frequently Asked Questions

1. My company wants to do work for Infrastructure Ontario, how does procurement work?  
2. What is the Vendor Performance Program?  
3. Where can I learn more about Contractor Security Screening?
   

Q 1. Want to do work for Infrastructure Ontario, how does procurement work?
IO is subject to the terms of Ontario's trade agreements and must follow the requirements of those agreements with respect to its procurement activities.
Ontario's trade agreements (OTA) prescribe a set of prohibited measures, tendering procedures, specific exemptions and reporting requirements that must be adhered to by IO. Goods and services must be acquired through a process that is open and transparent, ensures the best value for the funds expended to meet the specific needs, and promotes fair and equitable dealings with the private sector. The OTA requires that IO publicly tender:

• goods at a procurement value in excess of $25,000.00
• services, consulting and construction related procurements with a procurement value in excess of $100,000.00.

Infrastructure Ontario is committed to an open, fair and competitive procurement process. IO procures primarily in two ways:

• Via public open procurement using www.merx.com and/or www.biddingo.com  
• From a vendor of record list

For general procurement questions or for questions regarding pre-qualification, contact: procurement@infrastructureontario.ca  

Q 2. What is the Vendor Performance Program?

Vendor Performance Program (the “Program”) is an important component of the IO procurement/contract management framework. The purpose of the Program is to monitor performance of vendors within IO’s supply chain in order to ensure the responsible management of IO contracts and enhancement of the value of public sector real estate and services.

The Program establishes a standard methodology for evaluation of vendors’ past performance as a criterion in assessing a vendors’ bid on future IO work. A Vendor's performance is evaluated against the specific requirements of a contract or deliverable after the services and/or products are delivered. The Program sets out clear expectations and benchmarks that encourage vendor responsibility and accountability and a business culture of continuous improvement that benefit both vendors and IO. 

Q 3. What is Contractor Security Screening?

Infrastructure Ontario (IO) is required to comply with the Ministry of Government Services screening program which means that contractors, consultants, and service providers doing work for IO may be required to undergo the security screening process. The screening process is initiated directly with IO and/or through an IO service provider such as CBRE. 

Learn more about the Contractor Security Screening program.