BSU/NTC Thresholds for Goods/Materials

(Note: Thresholds for services can be found under Contracts & Services Thresholds.)

For your convenience, below is a summary of BSU/NTC purchasing limits and requirements at each level. Remember in all purchasing activities, you are a steward of state funds and it is your responsibility to use those funds appropriately, finding the best pricing available.

$0—$10,000

One firm quote (written, fax, e-mail or telephone) acceptable up to $10,000, including shipping, handling and/or freight. Quote must include name and telephone number of person giving quote and the date of the quote. Note: Website and/or catalog pricing will also be accepted up to $10,000 including shipping/handling/freight. However, you are strongly encouraged to contact the vendor for a price quote because often you will get an educational discount (especially as the size of the order increases). Please note quotes must include an amount for applicable shipping/handling/freight or a statement indicating none will be charged.

$10,000—$25,000

A minimum of one firm written quote (original, fax or e-mail acceptable–No telephone or website quotes) acceptable up to $25,000, including shipping/handling/freight. It is preferable to get two quotes to make sure you are getting the best possible price. Quotes must include name and telephone number of person giving quote and the date of the quote. Please note quotes must include an amount for applicable shipping/handling/freight or a statement indicating none will be charged. A sealed bid process through the Purchasing Office may also be requested.

$25,000—$50,000

Submit a minimum of two written, signed and dated quotes for review and decision on how to proceed (with quotes or by sealed bid), if no state contract is available for BSU/NTC use. Please note quotes must include an amount for applicable shipping/handling/freight or a statement indicating none will be charged.

$50,000 and Above

A public Sealed Bid Process is required unless a state contract is available for BSU/NTC use. Notice must be published in the State Register or other appropriate venue. Contact the Director of Business Services for assistance.

0—$100,000 Purchase Under a State or Other Approved Contract

If purchasing under a state or another approved contract, no other pricing is required.

0—$100,000 “Sole Source” Purchases

Please complete the BSU-NTC Sole Source Purchase Request and fully explain orders that you claim to be “sole source”. Do not make your purchase until the sole source request is approved.

Over $100,000

Approval from MinnState is required. Contact the Director of Business Services for assistance to request MnSCU/MinnState approval.