Procurement Framework

Procurement Policies for Goods, Works, and Non-Consulting Services

If you are looking to supply goods, carry out civil works, or provide non-consulting services in IDB-financed projects, this is the policy that applies to you. This document outlines the rules and procedures under IDB loans and technical cooperations.

Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants

If you are an individual consultant or part of a consulting firm interested in working on IDB-financed projects, these are the policies you need to know.

This document explains the rules and procedures the IDB follows when selecting and hiring consultants for loan and technical-cooperation operations.

Standard Bidding Documents

Our standard bidding documents (SBDs) are key tools designed to support both executing agencies and potential bidders throughout the procurement process. Each SBD is tailored to a specific type of procurement — goods, works, or services — and includes clear instructions, standardized provisions, and templates.

These documents promote consistency and ensure that all processes comply with the core principles of IDB-financed operations: value for money, economy, transparency, and efficiency. By using the SBDs, agencies and suppliers can navigate procurement with greater clarity, fairness, and confidence.

When the procurement plan specifies an international competitive bidding (ICB) process for goods, works, or consulting services, the use of SBDs is mandatory. In some countries, national SBDs — agreed upon with the IDB — are used instead. Currently, this applies to Colombia, Honduras, Jamaica, and Mexico.

Technical Guidance

This section provides practical guidance to support the effective implementation of IDB procurement policies. It includes technical notes and guidelines for executing agencies and stakeholders involved in IDB-financed operations. These resources offer step-by-step instructions, best practices, and strategic recommendations on key topics, helping to ensure transparency, efficiency, and sustainability throughout the procurement process.

Protest Technical Guideline  

This technical guideline outlines the procedures that executing agencies must follow when addressing protests related to procurement processes conducted under the IDB’s Policies for the Procurement of Goods and Works and the Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants.

It is important to note that this guideline does not limit the rights of bidders to pursue legal action in accordance with applicable national laws.

OP-273-12 Open-Source Software Technical Note      

This technical note covers the critical aspects of open-source software (OSS) procurement, including general procurement principles and best practices aligned with the policies for the procurement of goods, works, non-consulting services, and consulting services financed by the IDB.

Guidelines on Green Procurement      

This document provides guidance for borrowing countries and IDB staff on integrating environmental sustainability into procurement processes for IDB-funded projects. It outlines how to apply green procurement practices — those that minimize negative impacts on the environment, human health, and safety — throughout the project cycle. Based on international standards and best practices, the guidelines aim to help promote more sustainable outcomes, while enhancing efficiency and generating environmental and financial benefits.

Financial Management Documents

The financial management framework for all operations financed by the IDB aims to ensure that "the proceeds of any loan made, guaranteed, or participated in by the Bank are used only for the purposes for which the loan was granted, with due attention to considerations of economy and efficiency,” as stated in the establishing agreement of the IDB.

OP-273-12 Financial Management Guidelines for IDB-Financed Projects      

Disbursement Handbook      

Audited Financial Reports and External Audit Management Handbook