National Tenders Day

Young adults engaged in competitive bidding, wearing business attire, in a modern office setting with contract negotiations happening in the background.. — National tenders day illustration

Welcome to National Tenders Day! Get ready to dive into the exciting world of competitive bidding and contract negotiations. It's a day to celebrate all things tender-related, whether it's finding the best deals or mastering the art of crafting winning proposals. So put on your business suit and get ready to put your negotiation skills to the test!

When is Tenders Day?

It's national tenders day on the 8th August.

The Origins of National Tenders Day

National Tenders Day started as an online phenomenon, where businesses and individuals came together to share their experiences in the world of tenders and contracts. It quickly gained popularity as people realized the importance of this aspect of business and personal life. Tenders play a crucial role in the economy, as they allow organizations to procure goods and services from suppliers who offer the best value for money.

But how did it all start? Well, it all began when a group of frustrated entrepreneurs who constantly lost out on tenders decided to create a day dedicated to improving their tendering skills. They believed that by sharing knowledge and experiences, they could level the playing field and give everyone a fair chance to succeed.

So, on August 8th, 2016, the first National Tenders Day was observed. It quickly gained traction on social media and became an annual event that celebrates the art and science of tendering.

The Importance of Tenders

Tenders are not just about winning contracts; they are a cornerstone of fair competition and good governance. By opening up contract opportunities to a wide range of suppliers, tenders ensure transparency, accountability, and value for money. They provide a platform for business growth, innovation, and collaboration.

Tenders also play a significant role in the public sector, as governments and public entities rely on competitive bids to fulfill their obligations to taxpayers. It ensures that public funds are spent judiciously and that the best suppliers are chosen based on merit and not favoritism.

How to Celebrate National Tenders Day

There are many ways you can celebrate National Tenders Day and make the most of this opportunity:

Attend workshops or webinars on tendering best practices
Network with other businesses and share your tendering experiences
Brush up on your negotiation and proposal writing skills
Research current tenders and see if there are any opportunities for your business to bid on
Share your knowledge and experiences on social media, using the hashtag #NationalTendersDay

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest tender ever recorded was for the construction of the International Space Station? The tender was issued by NASA in 1984 and had a total value of over $15 billion. It attracted bids from companies around the world and marked a significant milestone in space exploration!

History behind the term 'Tenders'

1857

Emergence of the term 'tenders'

The term 'tenders' first emerged in the English language in 1857. It derived from the verb 'tend,' meaning to offer or present goods or services for consideration. Initially used in a commercial context, 'tenders' referred to the act of inviting bids or proposals for a project or contract.

1800s

The origin of 'tenders'

In the 1800s, the term 'tenders' began to be used to refer to small boats used to transport people or goods to and from larger ships. These boats were typically used in harbors and ports where larger vessels couldn't dock directly. The name 'tenders' reflected their role in providing tender care and assistance to larger ships.

1800s

The Birth of the Term

In the 1800s, the term 'tenders' emerged in the English language to refer to ships or boats that were specially designed to carry cargo or passengers. These vessels were characterized by their ability to dock near shore, enabling them to transport goods and people to and from shore with ease. The term 'tenders' was derived from their primary function of 'tending to' or serving larger ships.

1900s

Expansion to railway terminology

By the early 1900s, the term 'tenders' had also gained usage in the context of railways. A locomotive tender, also known as a coal car or water cart, is a separate vehicle attached to a steam locomotive that carries fuel and water. The term 'tenders' was used to describe these auxiliary vehicles that supported the operation of the main locomotive.

Late 19th century

Expansion into government contracts

During the late 19th century, the usage of 'tenders' expanded beyond commercial transactions to government contracts. The term became widely employed in public sector procurement processes, serving as a means for governments to solicit proposals and select suppliers for various projects.

1900s

Extending to Other Domains

During the early 1900s, the term 'tenders' began to extend its meaning beyond the maritime context. It started being used to describe small craft or vehicles that provided services or assistance to larger entities. For example, in the mining industry, 'tenders' referred to small vehicles that transported supplies or equipment to remote areas where larger vehicles could not access easily. Similarly, in the construction industry, 'tenders' denoted small trucks or wagons that carried materials or tools to construction sites.

Mid-1900s

Tender as a food term

In the mid-1900s, the term 'tenders' expanded its meaning to the culinary realm. 'Tenders' started to refer to a specific cut of meat that is tender and juicy. Chicken tenders, for example, are boneless and skinless pieces of chicken breast that are known for their tenderness. The term 'tenders' in this context emphasizes the desirable texture of the meat.

Early 20th century

Inclusion in legal frameworks

In the early 20th century, the term 'tenders' found its way into legal frameworks, particularly in countries with British influence. Governments began enacting laws and regulations to govern the tendering process, ensuring fairness, transparency, and competition in public procurement.

Late 1900s

The Railway Connection

In the late 1900s, the term 'tenders' found another domain to expand its usage. It became associated with the railway industry, specifically with locomotives. A tender in this context refers to a separate vehicle or carriage attached to a steam locomotive. The tender carries fuel such as coal or water to supply the locomotive during its journeys. This use of the term 'tenders' in railways further solidified its meaning of auxiliary vehicles or vessels supporting larger ones.

Mid-20th century

Adoption in the construction industry

During the mid-20th century, the construction industry embraced the concept of 'tenders.' Contractors and builders started using the term to refer to the competitive bidding process for construction projects. The tendering system enabled contractors to submit their offers for consideration, allowing the client to select the most favorable proposal.

Present Day

Wide Range of Applications

Today, the term 'tenders' spans various domains and is utilized in several industries and fields. It continues to signify auxiliary vehicles or vessels that provide support or assistance to larger entities. From boats transporting goods to remote islands, to trucks delivering supplies to construction sites, and locomotive tenders supplying fuel to trains, 'tenders' have become an integral part of different sectors. The term's versatility and rich history demonstrate its enduring importance in facilitating transport and logistics operations.

Present day

Widespread usage across industries

Today, 'tenders' have become an integral part of various industries worldwide. The term encompasses a range of procurement processes, extending beyond government contracts and construction projects. Businesses across sectors, from technology to healthcare, utilize tendering as a means to source suppliers, services, and projects in a competitive manner.