About NASPO
NASPO is the nation’s leader in public procurement, driving excellence for its members through diverse programs, resources, and initiatives.
75 Years of NASPO
1944-Present
First President
George Cronin was elected as the first president of NASPO on January 29, 1944. Legend has it that Major Cronin convened a number of officials in his Palmer House room to make his proposal. Reality suggests it may have been the hotel bar.
First Meeting
Western States Contracting Alliance Established
In 1993, the Western States Contracting Alliance (WSCA), formed through an agreement between the chief procurement officers from 15 western states.
First Website
NASPO goes online in 1996. Members could surf the internet for association news, publications, and the Database of Recycled Commodities.
First delegation to a foreign country
NASPO Network launches
In 2011, the NASPO Network, an online community for members to ask questions, exchange information, and instantaneously share solutions was launched
NASPO ValuePoint formed
In 2013, NASPO formed a subsidiary, NASPO ValuePoint, to manage its multi-state cooperative purchasing on a national level. NASPO ValuePoint is an outgrowth of WSCA, as well as the cooperative procurement efforts by other NASPO regions.
Procurement U launches
In 2014, NASPO launched Procurement U, a comprehensive educational program created to deliver high-quality, low-cost training and resources to support the professional development and certification process for state procurement professionals.
75 Years of NASPO Book
NASPO strives to be the Strategic Partner for Public Procurement Solutions. This vision is born from the importance of procurement to effective government and the foundation of 75 years of leadership from our members.
