NASPO ValuePoint
NASPO ValuePoint is a cooperative purchasing program facilitated by the National Association of State Procurement Officials, with contracts led by individual state procurement offices.
What Is NASPO ValuePoint?
NASPO ValuePoint is a cooperative purchasing program run by the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO). Unlike Sourcewell or OMNIA Partners, which run their own solicitations, NASPO ValuePoint contracts are led by individual state procurement offices on behalf of participating states.
When a NASPO ValuePoint contract is awarded, agencies in participating states can use it. States that did not participate in the particular contract may not have access, making NASPO contracts more geographically limited than Sourcewell or OMNIA.
How NASPO ValuePoint Works
- A lead state volunteers to run the solicitation. For example, Utah might lead a solicitation for cloud computing services.
- The lead state issues a competitive RFP. The solicitation is designed for multi-state use, with input from participating states.
- Vendors are evaluated and awarded. The lead state evaluates proposals and awards contracts.
- Participating states adopt the contract. Each state that wants to use the contract signs a participating addendum, which may include state-specific terms.
- Agencies in participating states can purchase. State agencies, and often local entities and school districts, can order through the contract.
NASPO ValuePoint vs. Other Cooperatives
| Feature | NASPO ValuePoint | Sourcewell | OMNIA Partners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solicitation run by | Lead state | Sourcewell directly | Lead public agency |
| Coverage | Participating states only | All 50 states | All 50 states |
| Best for | State-level procurement | Broad SLED access | Public + private sector |
| State-specific terms | Yes (participating addendums) | National terms | National terms |
When to Use NASPO ValuePoint
- State agencies. Some state procurement offices prefer NASPO contracts because they were led by a fellow state.
- State-specific compliance. Participating addendums can include state-specific terms that address local requirements.
- Categories where NASPO leads. NASPO has strong contracts in IT, cloud, and telecommunications, categories where state procurement offices have deep expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NASPO ValuePoint?
NASPO ValuePoint is a cooperative purchasing program where contracts are led by individual state procurement offices and made available to agencies in participating states.
How is NASPO ValuePoint different from Sourcewell?
NASPO contracts are led by individual states and only available in participating states. Sourcewell runs its own solicitations and contracts are available in all 50 states.
Can local governments use NASPO ValuePoint contracts?
In many participating states, yes. State procurement laws typically authorize local entities to use NASPO contracts, but access depends on whether the state signed the participating addendum.
How do vendors get on a NASPO ValuePoint contract?
By responding to solicitations issued by lead states. Monitor the NASPO ValuePoint website for upcoming solicitations in your product category.
Is NASPO ValuePoint free for government agencies?
Yes. Agencies in participating states can use NASPO contracts at no cost. Administrative fees are built into vendor pricing.