RFP vs RFQ vs IFB: A Plain-English Guide to Government Solicitation Types

Three letters trip up nearly every first-time government bidder. RFP. RFQ. IFB. They look similar. They're not. Knowing which one you're reading determines how you respond — and whether you waste a week writing the wrong proposal.

What an IFB is — Invitation for Bid

An Invitation for Bid (IFB) is the simplest type of public solicitation. The agency knows exactly what it needs, and they're using price as the only differentiator. Award goes to the lowest qualified bidder. No narrative. No creative response. No technical evaluation. Submit a complete bid, meet the qualifications, name your price.

When you'll see an IFB

Commodity buys: office supplies, fleet vehicles, standardized goods. Construction with detailed plans where every contractor will price the same scope. Anywhere the agency has eliminated subjectivity from the procurement. If you're competing on price alone, that's an IFB.

What an RFP is — Request for Proposal

A Request for Proposal (RFP) is the most common solicitation for professional services and complex projects. The agency wants the best solution, not just the cheapest. They use best-value scoring: typically 60–70% technical merit plus 30–40% price. The lowest price doesn't always win — your story does.

How RFPs are scored

Each RFP includes an evaluation rubric (usually in Section 4 or 5). The rubric assigns points across categories: approach, past performance, key personnel, equity practices, and price. Your job is to make those points easy to award. Map every section of your response directly to the rubric.

What an RFQ is — Request for Quote

A Request for Quote (RFQ) sits between an IFB and an RFP. The agency knows what it needs (like an IFB), but it's a smaller dollar amount or a faster timeline. RFQs typically award based on price plus a minimal qualifications check. Often the easiest entry point for a first-time bidder.

Quick decoder — which is which

If you're unsure which type you're looking at, check the cover page and the evaluation section. IFB = price wins. RFP = best value with a scoring rubric. RFQ = fast, price-driven, often used for smaller buys or known specifications.