Questions & Answers

How do I find out about business opportunities in developing countries?
Subscribing to UN Development Business is essential in finding out what contracts are available in developing countries. It is the primary source that is used world wide to find out about the latest contracts available from the major development banks. There are also other online resources which can help you understand the process in this website located under Publications and Resources.

How many people can use a password?
A password is issued when someone subscribes to UN Development Business. One password can be used by staff in the same company working in the same physical building. Passwords should not be shared with company staff in offices located elsewhere. In such cases, the company would need to purchase additional passwords. A password will allow only one user to access the system at any given time.

What if I forgot my username/password?
Did you forget your username/password? Not a problem. We can help! Click here in order for us to process your request.

How can I register at the World Bank?
A consultant or supplier does not need to register at the World Bank in order to bid on World Bank financed contracts. For many contracts, prequalification procedures are used to create short lists. Such procedures are handled on a case-by-case basis. Consulting firms are encouraged, but are not required, to register with DACON (see next question). Information concerning registration with the other banks can be found on their websites.

What is the DACON system?
DACON (Data on Consultants) is a consulting database used by the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for firms with at least five professionals. Although not a requirement for inclusion in a short list, participation in DACON provides information to World Bank and IDB Borrowers when identifying firms for projects. The Asian Development Bank has their own DACON registration system in which they require consulting firms to register. The Asian Development Bank also has a DICON registration system for registration of individuals. The African Development Bank Group has its own DACON registration system which can be accessed by going to www.afdb.org and selecting "Opportunities."

How can I supply goods directly to the World Bank headquarters in Washington, DC?
The World Bank maintains a "Vendor Kiosk" on their website listing such contracts. This can be found by going to www.worldbank.org (click on "Procurement-Tender" and then "Supplying Directly to the World Bank").

How can I get a job at one of the major development banks?
Information concerning employment at one of the major development banks can be obtained by contacting the bank itself. Most websites contain information about employment. On the home page of the World Bank, for instance, there is a link titled "Jobs & Scholarships." On the home page of the Inter-American Development Bank there is a link titled "Employment & Scholarships."

Where can I find the Procurement and Consultant Guidelines for the various development banks?
Most of the Procurement and Consultant guidelines of the various development banks can be found on their website. Select the following links to go directly to the procurement and consultant guidelines of the development banks.

Is there a standard form used in creating an Expressions of Interest?
There is no standard form that is used in a response to an Expression of Interest. The information that you should include in your response is mentioned in the Procurement Notice (Request for Expressions of Interest) which is published in UN Development Business. Be sure to include relevant details including the type of organization, experience in similar projects, experience of key personnel, contact information, etc.