School divisions are publicly funded organizations and considered a member of the MASH sector (Municipalities, Academic, Schools and Hospitals) and as such is subject to the New West Partnership Trade Agreement (NWPTA) and the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA). To ensure compliance with these agreements, all procurement must follow the standards as set out in the NWPTA and CFTA.
Trade agreements (along with government directives and policies) generally require public sector purchasers to conduct open, competitive procurement processes. This requirement arises if the estimated value of the goods or services to be purchased exceeds certain value thresholds.
Group Purchasing Organizations (GPO) work to aggregate volume and raise the purchasing power of each participating entity. Through GPOs, entities can often benefit from best value, while also reducing time spent on procurement processes and establishing contracts. Vendors benefit from the large volume and efficient competitive bid process that come with multiple awards to a single contract. Through these outcomes, the group purchasing model can offer incentives for both entities and suppliers alike.
The SSBA has identified two Canadian Group Purchasing Organizations (GPO) to assist its members in the procurement of certain goods and services. Members have the option of engaging with these GPOs to obtain preferred pricing in compliance with trade agreements. These GPOs are free to use with no contracts or minimum purchases.
If your school division intends to purchase from any GPO programs, the CFTA (Clause 7) requires you to publish a declaration of intent to participate in a buying group. It is recommended that your school division’s declaration be posted on the public notice website such as MERX and SaskTenders, for a minimum of two weeks. Each GPO has their own process for members and can provide guidance or assistance with this.
Contact the GPO directly for more information and to register for a free membership.
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Contact: |
Contact: |
Hotels
The SSBA has established preferred rates that may be used by any school division board member. To reserve your preferred rate:
- Visit the website of your hotel choice
- After selecting your arrival and departure dates, select “Corporate Promo/SET #” from the Special Rates drop down menu, and enter 10117
| Saskatoon
Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel 612 Spadina Cres E Saskatoon, S7K 3G9 Rates starting at $175.00/night or call +1 306-652-6770 and refer to SSBA |
Regina Delta Hotels by Marriott Regina 1919 Saskatchewan Dr, Regina, S4P 4H2 Rates starting at $155.00/night or call +1 306-525-5255 and refer to SSBA |