1. Supplier Related Questions:

How do I become a registered supplier with the City of Houston?
You will need to fill out an Online Supplier Application in order to become a recognized supplier with the City of Houston. It is important to note that once you become a recognized supplier, you are not guaranteed City business. It is your responsibility to seek bid/proposal opportunities from the City of Houston. This registration is used within our accounting system to uniquely identify each supplier we do business with. If you have registered within the past three years, you do not need to re-apply. Here are the instructions on how to become a registered supplier with the City of Houston:

  1. Click on the City Suppliers located under the Related Links area on the site and proceed as follows
  2. Supplier Registeration Information instructions sheet appears. Please read this screen carefully before you proceed with your registration
  3. Fill out a Supplier Registration Form and Submit it online. Please fill out as much information as you can. When you get to the Commodity Code search, make sure you select all the ones that apply. You always have the choice of leaving that section blank if you so desire
  4. Fill out an IRS W-9 Form online and then print it. This form needs to have a signature. You can submit the form by mail, fax or in person
  5. At this time, your registration is complete
  6. If you need to update or revise any of your commodity codes, please contact the Supplier Assistance Desk at 713.247.1740 to modify your commodity list. Do not submit another registration form.

How do I update my information on your system?
The City of Houston, Strategic Purchasing Division Supplier's Desk will not accept over the phone any change requests. To protect you and protect the integrity of our system, all change requests must be submitted in writing on a company letterhead with a signature. For your convenience, you may either fax, mail or hand deliver your request to the address listed below.

2. MWDBE Related Questions:

What is MWDBE and why should I be concerned about it?
MWDBE refers to minority, women-owned and disadvantaged business enterprise. City policy, as adopted by the City Council, requires a "good faith effort" to sub-contract for goods and services to certified MWDBE firms, in order to encourage their development and growth. Currently, MWDBE goals are 17% for Construction Projects; 11%, Purchasing; and 24%, Professional Services.

How do I get information about MWDBE?
Contact the Affirmative Action Office at 713.837.9000. The Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Division of the Mayors Office conducts a weekly workshop on MWDBE policies, for anyone interested, at 2 p.m. Thursdays at their offices, at 611 Walker 20th floor. General information about MWDBE policies is available at our office.

How do I find potential MWDBE sub-contractors?
A pre-bid or pre-proposal conference conducted by the assigned buyer allows for your guidance to find out who is interested in bidding or proposing on a particular contract. Also, you can contact the assigned buyer directly or view the Affirmative Action Directory for a complete listing of MWDBE firms.

How do I become a Certified MWDBE Supplier?
You will need to apply for certification with the Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Division. Once your certification is approved by Affirmative Action, you will be listed in the MWDBE Directory as a Certified MWDBE Supplier. This process takes about four weeks to complete.

3. General Concern Related Questions:

How do I change my address?
You will need to mail or fax a letter addressed to the City Purchasing Agent, on your company letterhead requesting that your address be changed. Be sure to reference your supplier number, new address and telephone number on your request.

Where do I park when visiting your offices?
There is limited metered parking available on McKinney and Walker Streets and behind the City Hall Annex (900 Bagby - enter from Walker Street). To park in the Tranquility Parking Garage, enter on Rusk Street (between Smith & Bagby).

Do you validate Parking?
No, we do not validate parking tickets.