A Request for Proposal (RFP) is the primary document that is sent to suppliers that invites them to submit a proposal for goods or services.  An RFP could also be referred to as a sourcing project, a document, or an associated event (competitive bidding).  The RFP is designed to obtain suppliers to provide a resolution to a business problem or issue. An RFP may be the most effective way to source the goods or services for more complex projects over an Request for Quote (RFQ), or a Request for Proposal (RFP).