RFI, RFP, RFQ & tender documents · Working
Invitation to bid
Also called: IFB
ELI5
A formal solicitation seeking priced bids, often for clearly specified work.
Used in conversation
“Which version of invitation to bid should the board treat as current?”
Pitch context
You will see “Invitation to bid” in operating plans, procurement packs, supplier reviews and supply-chain reports when the discussion reaches rfi, rfp, rfq & tender documents.
Why it matters: In rfi, rfp, rfq & tender documents, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Acquisition.gov — Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 15 — Contracting by NegotiationDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- UK Government — Groceries Supply Code of PracticeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16