What is a requirement for using a National Cooperative Contract?

Using a National Cooperative Contract requires price savings to be evident because the primary purpose of these contracts is to leverage purchasing power across multiple entities. National cooperative purchasing allows jurisdictions, such as local governments and schools, to obtain discounts and better pricing through group buying. Ensuring that there are tangible savings reinforces the rationale for participating in a cooperative arrangement, as these entities are usually seeking to maximize value while minimizing costs for taxpayers.

When price savings are demonstrable, it supports the decision to utilize the cooperative contract over conducting separate solicitations, which may not yield the same level of savings. This is central to the effectiveness and attractiveness of using national cooperative contracts in the public sector.