What Happens After Tender Submission?

Tender Opening

After the submission deadline, the procuring entity conducts a tender opening. For public tenders, this usually happens immediately after closing. At this stage, bidder names and basic details are recorded. No evaluation or decisions are made during tender opening.

Compliance Check

The first evaluation stage focuses on compliance. The evaluation committee checks whether each bid meets all mandatory requirements such as:

• Required documents
• Valid signatures and stamps
• Bid security (where applicable)
• Correct submission format

Any bid that fails to meet mandatory requirements is disqualified at this stage.

Technical Evaluation

Bids that pass compliance checks move to technical evaluation. Here, evaluators assess the bidder’s ability to deliver the tender requirements, including:

• Relevant experience
• Technical capacity
• Qualified personnel
• Compliance with specifications

Only bids that meet the technical criteria proceed to the next stage.

Financial Evaluation

At the financial stage, prices submitted by technically compliant bidders are reviewed. Evaluators check:

• Accuracy of calculations
• Consistency of pricing
• Value for money

The lowest price does not always win; quality and sustainability are also considered.

Due Diligence (Where Applicable)

In some cases, the procuring entity may verify the information provided by bidders. This may involve confirming experience, inspecting facilities, or validating documents to ensure the bidder can deliver the contract.

Award Notification

Once evaluation is complete, the successful bidder is notified of the award. Unsuccessful bidders are also informed. For public tenders, a standstill or appeal period may apply before the contract is signed.

Contract Signing

After the notification period, the successful bidder is invited to sign the contract. Performance security or additional documents may be required before signing. Once the contract is signed, the tendering process officially ends.

Conclusion

Tender submission is only the beginning of the evaluation process. Understanding what happens after submission helps businesses manage expectations, respond to requests confidently, and prepare better for future tenders. Knowing these stages puts bidders in a stronger position, whether successful or not.