OMES launches new service to support Oklahoma nonprofits and other organizations

The Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) is proud to announce the launch of First Access, a new online service designed to support nonprofits, school districts and governmental entities located in Oklahoma. As of Feb. 1, a First Access membership allows qualifying organizations the opportunity to purchase State Surplus items before they are made available at auction to the general public.

This service aims to help Oklahoma nonprofits, state agencies, and school districts get all kinds of supplies that might support their operations, such as office furniture, technology devices, and even vehicles, while saving money to reinvest back into their important missions.

This exciting advancement was sparked by leadership and foresight from the State Capitol. Seeing the opportunity for more state resources to be made available to nonprofits and similar type organizations, Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, initiated conversations to find a solution. That solution came in the form of modernizing the business model and marketing plan around the state’s surplus program to make sure nonprofit organizations were able to access this resource easily.

"There are so many nonprofits throughout our state that are focused on helping individuals who are most in need, and I believe state government should be a catalyst to support these organizations," Rep. West said. "The state’s new First Access initiative does exactly this and will help connect these organizations who provide vital services with low-cost resources to help continue their positive impact in our state. My hope is that this program continues to grow, and I encourage as many nonprofits as possible to sign up and utilize these resources to support their services for our citizens."

To qualify for First Access, organizations must register as a buyer through GovDeals, the state's surplus auction website, and prove they represent an authorized state agency, school district, nonprofit or political subdivision as defined by 74 O.S. § 62.3-C.

First Access is free to join, and interested entities can visit the First Access webpage to learn how to request membership.

For questions or more information about First Access, please email firstaccess@omes.ok.gov.