The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is implementing a renewed Vendor Complaint Process to better support government procurement. The updated process includes new ways for vendors to raise concerns before a contract is awarded.

The Vendor Complaint Process provides a clear, structured, and impartial way for vendors to raise concerns related to the GNWT’s competitive procurement processes. The renewed process is strengthening oversight and helping ensure public funds are spent responsibly and in the public interest.

Under the new process, vendors will be able to raise concerns earlier in the procurement process by submitting complaints during the solicitation period and before bid submissions are due. The updated process also introduces a protest period, allowing eligible vendors to formally challenge procurement decisions within a defined timeframe before a contract is awarded.

All other steps in the Vendor Complaint Process remain unchanged.

Quote

“The renewed Vendor Complaint Process reflects the GNWT’s commitment to building a procurement system that is transparent, equitable, and worthy of public trust. By establishing clear, structured steps for raising and resolving concerns, we are ensuring fairness for all vendors, accountability in our decision-making, and responsible procurement practices that serve the public interest.”

 - Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance

Quick facts

• This process aligns with best practices observed across Canadian jurisdictions and upholds the GNWT’s obligations under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement.
• Development of the updated Vendor Complaint Process was informed by a public survey, jurisdictional scan, and the engagement of an independent procurement expert. 
• The GNWT will continue to use performance data, complaint outcomes, and engagement feedback to identify opportunities to improve procurement policies, processes, and practices over time.

Related links

• Vendor Complaint Process

For media requests, please contact:
Beau Stobbs
Senior Communications Advisor
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
EIA_FINComms@gov.nt.ca