Going Global with the United Nations Procurement System

Did you know that the United Nations (UN) represents a global market of over $18.6 billion annually for all types of goods and services? The United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM) provides an excellent springboard to introduce your goods and services to an international audience.

Bringing together UN procurement staff and the vendor community, the UNGM acts as a single portal to introduce your products and services to many UN organizations, countries, and regions. It allows you to keep abreast of upcoming tender notices and acts as an important procurement tool to shortlist suppliers for competitive bidding.

UNGM vendors are selected based on economic concerns and environmental and social interests with sustainability often playing a factor. Tenders generally require three years in business, international capacity, and financial standing to honor a contract. To compete successfully, you are encouraged to show interest by pursuing opportunities and requesting debriefs within 10 days of receiving any letters of regret.

The federal government is here to assist you with your UN procurements. You may wish to apply concurrently for support from the Advocacy Center at the U.S. Department of Commerce, which helps ensure your sales of U.S. products and services have the best chance to compete abroad.

Another great resource is the U.S. Export Assistance Center in New York City, which can direct you to training, provide one-on-one counseling, and assist in introductions as appropriate.

UN contracting may be a step forward in expanding your international competitiveness by providing an avenue to reach the global marketplace. Potential new customers could be waiting for you.

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