Navigating Tender Portals

Navigating Tender Portals

Finding the right public sector contracts is essential for businesses entering the market. Various platforms publish procurement opportunities, and knowing where to look can give you a competitive edge.

Key Tender Portals

• Contracts Finder – The UK’s main portal for public sector tenders over £10,000 (central government) and £25,000 (wider public sector).
  
  • Features: Search filters, custom alerts, and industry-specific tenders.
  • Best for: Companies seeking UK public sector contracts.
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• Find a Tender Service (FTS) – Replaced the OJEU system post-Brexit for high-value contracts over £122,976.
  
  • Features: Advanced search filters by region, sector, and contract type.
  • Best for: Businesses capable of handling large-scale contracts.
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• Tenders Electronic Daily (TED) – The EU’s procurement platform, listing opportunities across member states.
  
  • Best for: Companies looking to work with EU-based organisations.

Refining Your Search with Boolean Operators

Using Boolean search techniques can make finding relevant tenders easier:

• AND – Narrows results (e.g., Cloud CRM AND healthcare).
• OR – Broadens search (e.g., Construction OR Building).
• NOT – Excludes terms (e.g., Recruitment NOT temporary).
• "Quotation Marks" – Finds exact matches (e.g., "Cisco Switch").
• Wildcard (*) – Expands results (e.g., recruit finds recruit, recruitment, recruiter).

Other Tools for Tender Searches

While free platforms provide most information, paid tools offer advanced insights:

• Tracker Intelligence – Aggregates tenders and provides analytics.
• BiP Solutions – Supports bid writing and procurement strategy.
• Delta eSourcing – Offers secure document exchange and contract management.

Are Paid Tools Worth It?

Free platforms like Contracts Finder cover most needs. Paid tools add features like analytics but aren’t essential when starting out. Use free resources first and upgrade as your procurement strategy grows.

Tips for Success

1. Set Up Alerts – Automate notifications for relevant opportunities.
2. Check Regularly – Stay updated, as tenders change frequently.
3. Tailor Searches – Use Boolean searches to refine results.
4. Organise Bids – Prepare templates for policies, insurance, and case studies.
5. Use Free Resources First – Maximise free tools before investing in paid platforms.

By leveraging the right platforms and search techniques, your company can efficiently navigate public sector procurement and improve your chances of securing contracts.