EPB purchases a wide range of products and services — from construction materials, electrical equipment, and IT systems to professional services, office supplies, and facility maintenance. Check our extensive list here.

While the majority of EPB’s purchases are for new items, there are instances where refurbished products may be considered. This typically applies when the item is difficult to source, offers significant cost savings, or is no longer in production. All refurbished items must meet our quality and performance standards before approval.

Yes. EPB’s Small Business Supplier Connection is focused on creating opportunities for local, small, and underutilized businesses to participate in our procurement process. We are committed to building meaningful relationships with a broad range of suppliers and encouraging economic impact across our community.

To become a vendor, please register in our Supplier Portal. Be sure to upload your W-9 and any promotional materials when prompted. Once submitted, our Purchasing team will review your information and reach out with next steps if there’s a fit for upcoming opportunities. Due to the high volume of vendor introductions we receive, response times may vary. We appreciate your patience as we work to thoughtfully engage potential suppliers.

Introductory calls are typically 15–20-minute virtual meetings held via Microsoft Teams. These sessions provide an opportunity for you to introduce your company and highlight how your products or services align with EPB’s needs. While not required, we recommend preparing a brief presentation that includes an overview of your business offerings, capabilities, relevant licenses and certifications, team structure, safety protocols, training and development practices, and estimated pricing (if applicable).

EPB hosts an annual Business Connect Summit along with other outreach events throughout the year, often in collaboration with our business development partners. To stay informed about upcoming opportunities, please email our Purchasing Team at purchasing@epb.net and request to be added to our Business Connections Quarterly Newsletter.

Open bids and RFPs are posted on our Competitive Sealed Bids and Requests website. You may also find our opportunities in the Chattanooga Times Free Press and other media sources.

Each solicitation includes a designated buyer who will serve as your primary point of contact. To ensure a fair and transparent process, all communications related to that opportunity must be submitted in writing directly to the assigned buyer. Communication with other EPB staff regarding the solicitation may result in disqualification. For general inquiries, please contact our Purchasing Team at purchasing@epb.net.

Awards are based on a combination of factors, including price, quality, service capabilities, experience, and alignment with EPB’s operational goals.

You will receive confirmation of your submission from the designated buyer. Following the solicitation’s closing date, EPB will begin a thorough evaluation process. If your proposal is selected for further consideration, you will be contacted to discuss next steps and any additional requirements.

You can update your business contact details, address, or certifications by logging into your vendor profile or by contacting our Purchasing Department at purchasing@epb.net.

If you’ve lost or forgotten your supplier portal login credentials, please email our Purchasing Team at purchasing@epb.net. We’ll be happy to send you a secure link to reset your login and regain access.

Most surplus items are sold through public auction on govdeals.com. EPB does have a bid process for recycling CPE Electronic Equipment and Scrap metals.

Most surplus items are made available to the public through online auctions at GovDeals.com. Additionally, EPB utilizes a bid process for the recycling of CPE electronic equipment and scrap metals. Interested parties are encouraged to monitor the site or reach out for information on upcoming opportunities.

Substitutions must be pre-approved by EPB before delivery. Unapproved substitutions may be rejected. If a specified item is unavailable or discontinued, suppliers should notify EPB immediately with recommended alternatives and supporting documentation.