Where to find tenders

LCPU resource: Where to find tenders

Public bodies' tenders are advertised on a number of different websites and also in some trade journals and local newspapers. Many will advertise them on a section of their own website as well.

The websites listed below provide a useful idea of what the public sector is buying both locally and farther afield, and how they advertise tenders. However, be aware that turnaround time can be tight and that competitors may have been aware of the timescales and the commissioner's requirements a long time in advance.

Tender information is freely available, although some private sector websites 'process' the information and sell it on.

For support and development organisations

If you haven't already, it is worth building relationships with local public bodies and their procurement departments to find out exactly how opportunities are advertised and circulated in your area. Some public bodies work closely with their support and development organisation to circulate relevant opportunities to the voluntary sector through them and their networks.

For providers

Building relationships with possible customers of your services and making them aware of your work will put you in the best position to be aware of future upcoming opportunities, timescales and potential input into the whole commissioning process. Some website below will provide email alerts

Local contracts

The best starting point is to asses which public bodies (for instance: local/metropolitan/city/county councils, PCTs, schools) are geographically close to your business and see if they purchase the sort of services you provide.

Your local council's website, and the relevant health authority, should list their current tenders on their website. This may be under a 'business' heading or 'your council' heading or found by searching the website. Local government websites can be found here.

Some local authorities are starting to also publish contracts databases so interested providers can view what is bought, who currently holds the contract, rough contract value and when the contract expires. Contact the procurement department to see if one is available.

Find your Local Government Website

National websites

• Contracts Finder The Government run website giving access to lower value contract opportunities from public sector bodies. This includes contracts under the EU procurement threshold and should include contracts found on local sites above. There are good search options, such as 'items more suitable for smaller suppliers', 'location', and 'value'. Increasingly details and paperwork (often including contracts, specifications and extensive levels of details and pricing) of awarded tenders are also listed. Access is free.
• Sell 2 Wales Despite the name this website provides details of tender opportunities across the UK including lower value ones. Searches can be made without the need to register.

International

• Tenders Electronic Daily European wide tenders above the EU procurement threshold.

Subject Specific

• NHS supply2health An online resource that advertises opportunities to provide Part B clinical services to the NHS and details of awarded contracts
• Bluelight Emergency Services eTendering Site Tenders across the country from the emergency services. Requires registration.
• Department of Work and Pensions Information on supplying DWP.