Starter Guide: Working with the City of Toronto
The City of Toronto is one of Canada’s biggest buyers.
Set your business up for success and become the next supplier to succeed from Etobicoke to East York with this helpful starter guide, courtesy of the Toronto team and IWSCC.
Find a quick checklist with links at the end of the article!
The City of Toronto uses SAP Ariba to identify, connect with, and contract businesses. The globally recognized platform helps City buyers work with more local, diverse, and small businesses in the GTA and beyond. In other words: If you’re not on Ariba, you’re not on Toronto’s radar!
The best first step is filling out Toronto’s Supplier Request Form. After you submit (and a couple days for processing) you’ll get an invite from Toronto to register your business. If you’re not on Ariba yet, your invitation will lead you to set up your profile, and you’ll be registered with The City! Already on Ariba? That same invite will help connect your existing profile to Toronto’s registry.
SAP Ariba, like many other business platforms, has its own Profile page on your business. This profile covers information about who you are, what you do, and where you operate.
Your SAP Ariba profile is more than an about-you page. Buyers take advantage of the platform to locate businesses. A complete SAP Ariba Profile helps buyers find you. If your profile isn’t complete, buyers using Ariba’s search functions are going to pass you up, so make sure to set some time aside to explore your profile!
Make sure to upload your certificates! Your SAP Ariba profile can include special certifications and qualifications your business holds. If your certificates or documents aren’t on the platform, you may get passed up even if you’re qualified — that includes IWSCC Certified Suppliers!
Toronto’s buyers want to run fair and equal competitions to find the best suppliers. When city officials want to buy something, they’re navigating a complex world of regulations that support fairness and accountability on both sides.
At IWSCC we know that entrepreneurs are networkers, always looking for the right person to talk to about what they have to offer. Help the City help your business: If you want to connect directly with Toronto officials, you must register with Toronto’s Lobbyist Registrar and follow their process when you’re marketing your business to the City – no exceptions!
Completing these steps sets you up for success on your mission to work with one of Canada’s biggest and most dynamic Cities. Registering with the city, completing your profile, and understanding lobbyist rules will keep you on Toronto’s radar and put you ahead of the competition.
Proactive suppliers can also browse open bids any time on Toronto’s website. Search for your next opportunity with the city, but not before you’re registered and ready!
- Submit a Supplier Request
- Complete your Ariba Profile
- (For Diverse Suppliers) Upload your Certificate
- Register with the Lobbyist Registrar
- Browse their Contracts!
The City of Toronto hosts live, virtual information sessions for business owners every month where you can ask questions and get advice on registering with the city.
Tap into their next session on October 20 by emailing supplychain@toronto.ca, or calling 416-397-4141 to reserve your spot.
Toronto also provides a wealth of resources and FAQs on their website. Find tips on how to register and how to browse City contracts here.
Need some advice on SAP Ariba? IWSCC has you covered!
Check out our Accessible Webinar: A Practical Guide to SAP Ariba and learn to navigate the platform with help from Stone Procurement Inc.
The City of Toronto is an IWSCC Corporate Member.
Promote your business to socially-motivated buyers like Toronto when you certify your Veteran-Owned or Disabled-Owned business.
