Small Purchase Procedures and Thresholds

Delaware State University (DSU) follows the State of Delaware procurement guidelines for all State-funded expenditures, including Minor Capital Improvements.  Minor Capital Improvement projects include renovations, minor reconstruction, and/or equipment with a life expectancy of ten years or more and a total cost not to exceed $500,000. 

The State Purchasing and Contracting Advisory Council established thresholds that trigger formal bidding procedures in the areas of Material and Non-Professional Services, Public Works, and Professional Services. State agencies are only required to use the formal bidding procedures when a purchase is made in an amount that exceeds the threshold limit.

The basis for DSU’s procurement requirements are in 29 Del. C. § 6902(1), in that, “Agency” shall include…Delaware State University.  As such, DSU must follow the procurement provisions of Chapter 69.  DSU is NOT a “Covered” Agency and therefore is not required to use state contracts, but must follow the procurement rules. 

The Small Purchase Procedures and Thresholds established by the State Purchasing and Contracting Advisory Council must be followed.  The Council is established in accordance with 29 Del. C. § 6913.  The Delaware Code only authorizes Government Support Services to enter into any cooperative purchasing with one or more public procurement units within the State or within another state; 29 Del C. § 6933.  No other Agency may enter into a cooperative.

In the case of Material and Non-Professional Services, the dollar amount is a yearly cumulative limit.  Public Works and Professional Services are on a contract by contract basis.

If you have any questions regarding these purchasing requirements, please contact Delaware State University, Purchasing Department.