Michigan's Extended Purchasing Program began in 1975.  It has statutory authority through Public Act 431 of 1984, which permits the Department of Management and Budget (DMB) to extend State of Michigan contracts to any city, village, county, township, school district, intermediate school district, non-profit hospital, and institution of higher education, community or junior college.

In 2004, Member feedback drove program changes, resulting in a transition from the Extended Purchasing Program to MiDEAL.  The re-designed MiDEAL program received national recognition with a Cronin Classic award from the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO).  Members continue to drive MiDEAL's performance.

Today, MiDEAL is voluntary and flexible.  Each Member determines the extent of their participation.