Strategies for effective management of unsolicited public-private partnership proposals

Over the years, there has been an increasing trend in the use of unsolicited proposals for public-private partnership (PPP) project implementation. However, most unsolicited PPPs are often characterized as controversial and offer poor value for money. This paper aims to investigate the strategies for effective management of unsolicited proposals for PPP implementation. In addition, the commonly used and most suitable tendering methods for managing unsolicited PPP proposals are explored. Results reveal seven critical strategies for managing unsolicited PPP proposals: existence of well-structured and clear policy guidelines for unsolicited proposals; thorough assessment of value for money, innovation, cost, and risks of proposals; employment of highly skilled and competent staff during evaluations of proposals; competitive, fair, and transparent tendering process; extensive public consultation and stakeholder engagement; comprehensive evaluation of the impact of unsolicited proposals on sector/national policy; and adequate protection of intellectual property rights of the original proponent. Furthermore, regular procurement and best and final offer are the commonly used and most suitable tendering methods. The research outputs inform policymakers and private proponents of the key measures required in achieving value for money and wider social benefits for unsolicited PPPs.