Almost 20 years ago, the Western Division of the IAFC worked with the IAFC and its Divisions to create their very own cooperative procurement program, making it easier to buy equipment departments want. The FireRescue GPO has been serving the industry ever since and now offers even more value to the fire service by becoming a part of Sourcewell, the largest government based cooperative in North America. FireRescue GPO and Sourcewell offer cooperative contracts for most of your procurement needs that usually meet or exceed your state and local procurement requirements. The fire service has unique procurement needs that may not be easily met with traditional “low-bid” solicitation processes. Using a nationally recognized government cooperative such as Sourcewell allows your department to meet your procurement requirements and save money in the process while purchasing the brands your firefighters rely on every day.
Sourcewell is a self-sustaining government organization providing cooperative purchasing solutions to over 50,000 actively participating public agencies across the United States and Canada. $4.6 billion is purchased annually by state and local governments through over 400 Sourcewell-awarded contracts. Public safety specific contracts include fire apparatus, firefighting equipment (including SCBA and turnout gear), wireless communications (including FirstNet and T-Mobile/Sprint), Body Armor, Ambulances, fleet vehicles, uniforms and much more.
There is no cost to participate. Purchases are made directly between you and your dealer or contracted supplier. Contract documentation and staff support are readily available through www.sourcewell-mn.gov. As an IAFC member, you are automatically enrolled with Sourcewell. You can check your Sourcewell account status or complete your registration today and start streamlining your procurement process. As an added bonus, when you use a FireRescue GPO/Sourcewell contract, revenue is used to support the International Association of Fire Chiefs and all of its U.S. Divisions.