Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
We have compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions. Should you have additional questions regarding doing business with Fairfax County, please do not hesitate to contact the Department of Purchasing and Supply Management’s Information Specialist at 703-324-3201, TTY 711.
Q: Who is the agency in charge of buying for the County?
A:The Department of Purchasing and Supply Management (DPSM) is the primary agency for the procurement of goods and services for the Fairfax County Government and Public Schools. The DPSM organization consists of:
Agency Management Branch which has total oversight and management of the
agency and also manages the County's Small and Minority Business
Enterprise Program, Administrative Branch responsible for all bid and
contract support function, as well as personnel and financial/budget
support activities, Purchasing Branch which is the primary section
responsible for procurement and other materials management activities,
and Systems and Customer Services Branch which is responsible for
computer systems operations sponsored by DPSM, Vendor registration, fixed
asset accountability, and activities related to auditing, customer
support and training agencies in materials management operations.
Information regarding these areas can be obtained by calling 703-
324-3201, TTY 711 or visiting our office at:
Department of Purchasing and Supply Management,
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 427
Fairfax, VA 22035
Business hours are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
A list of the DPSM contract administrators may be located here.
Q: Does the County have a set aside program for small and/or minority businesses?
A: No, the County does not have a set aside program. DPSM does, however, sponsor the Vendor Relations Division (SBE). The objective of this program is to undertake every effort to increase the opportunity for utilization of small and minority firms in all aspects of procurement. You should call Marvis Marshall, SBE Director, on 703- 324-3212, TTY 711 to obtain additional information on this assistance program.
Q: Who should I contact in the Department of Purchasing and Supply Management to discuss selling my products/services to the County?
A:The best person to discuss selling your products and/or services would be the buyer in charge of those commodities. Since we have different buyers and procure a large number of commodities and services, you should call our Vendor Assistance/Public Information Specialist on 703- 324-3201, TTY 711 indicate what products and/or services you sell and ask to speak to the appropriate buyer.
Q: How do register to receive a copy of future solicitations?
A:Complete guidance for Vendor Registration is found at "Selling To Us".
Q: Who do I contact to get a copy of a solicitation package?
A: The best way to receive a solicitation package is to register to receive Notices of Solicitations as discussed at "Selling to Us", or you may either:
1) View the list of Current Solicitations advertised solicitations available on this web site.
2) Call the “Bid Request Line” at 703- 324-3202, TTY 711 leave the solicitation number, your name and address, and a copy will be mailed to you.
3) Visit the Department of Purchasing and Supply Management and pick up a copy.
Department of Purchasing and Supply Management,
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 427
Fairfax, VA 22035
Business hours are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
Q: Is there information available about establishing my business in Fairfax County?
A:Yes, the Economic Development Authority (EDA) has a publication entitled "Doing Business in Fairfax County". To receive a copy, please contact, Karen Smaw, Manager, Small and Minority Business at 703- 790-0600, TTY 711.
Q: Who should I contact in the Department of Purchasing and Supply Management to find out information concerning current contracts such as the expiration date, incumbent vendor or contract administrator?
A: For information regarding the contract, the best person to contact is the contract administrator for the contract(s) in question.