Business Services

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Business Services Department supports the business operations of the district including purchasing, accounts payable and receivable, financial accounting and reporting, payroll, and retirement. 

Purchasing

Purchasing provides services and materials for district staff and outside customers by securing quality products and services in accordance with Board Policies in an efficient and timely manner. 

Thank you for your interest in doing business with Grand Rapids Public Schools! Follow the steps below to connect your business with GRPS and our Bid opportunities.

Step 1: Understand the Competitive Bid Process

GRPS Polices & Rules

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to work with reliable vendors who support our schools and operations.Board Policy 3610 andBoard Policy 3660 listed under our Fiscal Management Section 3000 should be used as a guide for doing business with the district.

Board Policy 3690-R highlights our local first purchasing preference. Review this policy for information on local first qualifications.

Competitive Bid Amount

According to the revised Michigan School Code, the State of Michigan annually designates a base amount above which school districts must obtain competitive bids. The Competitive Bid base amount is $30,512.00 (FY2025) effective October 10, 2024.  

Tips to be successful in the Public Sector

1. Thoroughly read, and follow, instructions to bidders
2. Submit a complete bid or proposal response
3. Be competitive
4. Be on time (late bids are NOT accepted)

Step 2: Create a Vendor Profile

Vendors interested in doing business with GRPS are encouraged to create a vendor profile on MITN Purchasing Group, Sigma Vendor Self Services, or Bonfire, our centralized bid portals that provides broader access to new opportunities throughout our region.

Step 3: View Open GRPS Request for Proposals (RFP)

Request for Proposals

Facilities Commissioning Services for Construction/Renovation of Multiple Sites

Scope of Work: Grand Rapids Public Schools seeks professional Commissioning Agent (Cx) expertise to give design input and execute its construction projects at:

• Ken-O-Sha Park Elementary
• Riverside Montessori
• New Aberdeen Elementary

Deadline: All proposals are due on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 11:00 am, at the GRPS Facilities Building, 900 Union Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. 

View the RFP for Facilities Commissioning Services for Construction/Renovation of Multiple Sites here

Aberdeen Elementary Schematic Design

Aberdeen Elementary Cost Estimate

Ken-O-Sha Park Elementary Plan and Initial Scope

Riverside Montessori Schematic Design

Attachment A1: Project Overview/Objectives

Attachment A2: Scope of Services

Attachment D1: Detailed Proposal Form