RFI, RFP, RFQ & tender documents · Core

Proposal

Also called: business proposal, sales proposal, supplier proposal

ELI5

A response explaining the supplier's approach, solution, value and terms.

Used in conversation

“Attach the latest proposal to the decision pack before the meeting.”

Pitch context

You will see “Proposal” 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 · 7

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. Small Business Administration — Write your business planSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
Y Combinator — YC Startup Library — fundraising and pitching resourcesSupporting source family · practitioner · checked 2026-08-16
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Small Business Capital Formation GlossarySupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
IFRS Foundation — IFRS GlossarySupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16