> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.visita.co.za/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Tenders & Bidding

> Participate in local procurement and community work orders

# Tenders & Work Orders

Visita democratizes local procurement by allowing local businesses to bid on community projects and municipal work orders.

## How it Works

The system moves from a "Signal" (Problem) to a "Work Order" (Solution) through a transparent, competitive process.

1. **Work Order Created:** A community project reaches its funding goal, or a signal is escalated to a "Community Fix".
2. **Bidding Opens:** Local vendors are invited to bid.
3. **Sealed Bids:** Vendors submit quotes. Bids are hidden to prevent undercutting.
4. **Community Vote:** Residents vote on the best vendor based on price, reputation, and locality.
5. **Award:** The winner is assigned the job and funds are escrowed.

## Viewing Opportunities

1. Go to **Seller Dashboard → Tenders** (or `visita.co.za/seller/tenders`).
2. Filter by:
   * **Ward:** Opportunities in your area.
   * **Type:** Construction, Cleaning, Security, etc.
   * **Budget:** Estimated value.

## Submitting a Bid

<Steps>
  <Step title="Select Work Order">
    Click on an "Open" work order to view details and requirements.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Prepare Quote">
    Enter your total cost and estimated days to complete.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Submit Sealed Bid">
    Your bid remains private until the bidding period closes.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Info>
  **Note:** You must have a verified business profile to submit bids on projects over R5,000.
</Info>

## Evaluation Criteria

The community doesn't just look at price. They see your:

* **Trust Score:** Based on past verified work.
* **Locality:** "Local Vendor" badges highlight businesses inside the ward.
* **Price:** Competitive pricing relative to the AI estimate.

## Payment

* **Escrow:** Funds are held securely by Visita/Paystack.
* **Milestones:** Payment is released when the community **verifies** the work is complete.