Unofficial. Not affiliated with the UK government or Crown Commercial Service. Data from Find a Tender and Contracts Finder. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
How to Bid for UK Public Sector Tenders: 6 Steps for Small Businesses
To bid for a UK public sector contract you need a free supplier account, the right CPV codes and an open tender you can deliver. Then you read the documents, complete any selection questionnaire and submit a scored response before the closing date.
1. Register as a supplier (free)
Create a free supplier account on Find a Tender and, if you also want older or lower-value notices, on Contracts Finder. Under the Procurement Act 2023 most buyers expect you to keep your core supplier information up to date on the government's central digital platform. Many buyers also run their own e-tendering portals, where you register (again free) to download documents and submit.
2. Find the right CPV codes
Every notice is tagged with CPV codes that describe what is being bought. Browse open tenders by CPV category to learn which codes match your work, then use them to set up alerts.
3. Pick tenders you can realistically win
Start with notices marked suitable for SMEs, lower contract values and buyers near you. Check the contract length, insurance levels and any minimum turnover before you spend time on a bid.
4. Read every document and ask questions early
Download the specification, terms and evaluation criteria from the official notice. Send clarification questions before the clarification deadline; the buyer usually shares the answers with all bidders.
5. Complete the selection stage
Many tenders start with a selection questionnaire (often called an SQ, PQQ or, under the Procurement Act 2023, a procurement specific questionnaire). It checks your eligibility, finances, insurance and experience. Keep reusable answers, case studies and policies ready.
6. Write a scored response, including social value
Answer exactly what each quality question asks, with evidence. Many buyers also score social value (for example local jobs, training or environmental commitments). Submit before the closing date and time; late bids are normally rejected.
Registration is free
Registering on Find a Tender, Contracts Finder and buyers' own e-tendering portals is free. You do not need to pay anyone to find or bid for public sector contracts. Standstill never charges for anything and never asks for personal or bank information.