Guide
Selling IT to the Quebec government
How Quebec's public bodies buy IT and software, where tenders are posted on SEAO, the Act respecting contracting by public bodies, the Autorité des marchés publics, and French-language requirements.
Quebec runs its own distinct public procurement system, with its own portal, law and oversight body. It's a large and active IT market, and firms that can work in French have a real advantage.
SEAO
The Système électronique d'appel d'offres (SEAO) is the official portal for calls for tenders from Quebec's government departments, agencies, health and social services bodies, school service centres, colleges, universities and municipalities. It also publishes contract awards. Download documents and submit bids through SEAO, or as each tender instructs.
The law
Most public bodies follow the Act respecting contracting by public bodies and its regulations, which set when public calls for tenders are required, evaluation methods and supplier obligations. Municipalities follow their own municipal laws, with similar principles.
Integrity and authorization
The Autorité des marchés publics (AMP) oversees public contracting. For contracts above set values, or in some sectors, bidders need authorization from the AMP to contract with public bodies. It also manages a register of businesses ineligible for public contracts and handles complaints about tender processes. Check the current thresholds and whether your contract needs authorization well before bidding, because getting it takes time.
French language
Under Quebec's Charter of the French Language, as amended in recent years, public bodies generally use French in their contracting. Expect:
- Tender documents in French.
- Bids, and often deliverables and software interfaces, in French.
- Requirements for French-language support and documentation.
Bilingual capacity is often essential, not optional.
Centralized buying
The Centre d'acquisitions gouvernementales (CAG) buys common goods and services, including many IT products and services, for government bodies. Quebec's digital transformation is led by the ministry responsible for cybersecurity and digital affairs, which sets standards for government IT.
Registration
You'll typically need a Quebec enterprise number (NEQ) if you carry on business in Quebec, and to meet tax compliance requirements such as an attestation from Revenu Québec for many contracts.
See also selling IT to government in Canada.
Common questions
Where are Quebec government tenders posted?
On SEAO, the Système électronique d'appel d'offres, which is the official electronic tendering system for Quebec public bodies.
Do I need to bid in French for Quebec government contracts?
In most cases, yes. Quebec public bodies generally contract in French, and many require French deliverables and support.
What is AMP authorization?
It's an authorization from the Autorité des marchés publics that businesses need to obtain public contracts above certain values or in certain categories in Quebec.