Non-Profits Can Save by Using State Contracts

Our dealership has traditionally done a lot of work with government and not for profit organizations. Our work with our government clients has necessarily involved us in using either GSA schedules, or “State Contracts” as pricing and purchasing tools. As a result of our familiarity with these programs, it’s obvious to us that “non profits” are also able to utilize these contracts. This is especially true in our home state of Pennsylvania. Before we go any further, we should make a case for why anyone would want to even consider using a State Contract. The primary reason is pricing. This alone should be an incentive since it provides a deep discount from the manufacturer that you probably could not get on your own. Essentially, you are being extended the “volume discounting” that the State enjoys. Depending on the manufacturer, you will probably save 10-20% on every order. This should be the most compelling reason, but there are more. To go more in-depth on this subject visit our website by clicking here. What’s obvious to us is not always apparent to our not-for-profit customers. It seems that a week doesn’t go by where we don’t need to convince someone that, “Yes. You really, really can use the State Contract; and you won’t go to jail”. Many non profit customers assume that they are ineligible to utilize the State Contract system due to one, or both of the following reasons. The first is, “we don’t receive any State funding”. The second is, “we are a religious group”. In Pennsylvania at least, neither of these will disqualify you for using the various State Contracts. The manufacturers on these contracts welcome as many users as possible, and the State wants to extend their programs as broadly as possible. Additionally, there is no “funding” from the State which eliminates any conflict. The most popular program in Pennsylvania, for non profits is the COSTARS program. In addition to furniture, members also have access to contracts for software, computer hardware, janitorial supplies and a whole range of products and services. For eligibility information, you can access the Commonwealth’s website by clicking here for their FAQs. There is no cost for membership. We always suggest that you apply for membership to establish your eligibility. To see the range of eligible members, we suggest that you do a search by Clicking Here . Search your own county. You’ll be surprised that not only is your local government and school district a member, but also many churches, synagogues and mosques. If you’re managing a non profit, take some time to explore the option of using the State Contract system. It’s easy, and it will save you money on furniture as well as most of the products you use every day. Return to Officenter.com