Register before the opportunity appears
Public bodies and large operators buy through supplier portals. If you are not registered and prequalified, you do not see the opportunity. Registration can take weeks, so do it before you need it.
Get the prequalification documents in order
Most buyers ask for proof of liability insurance, a workers' compensation clearance letter, a safety program or certification that fits the work, and references. Missing or expired documents remove a bidder before price is ever considered.
Read the whole document
The evaluation criteria tell you how the bid is scored. Answer every mandatory requirement in the order it is asked, use the buyer's forms, and note the deadline for questions. A bid that ignores the stated format is often rejected without review.
Price the work you can deliver
Build the price from labour, equipment, materials, overhead and margin. A low price that you cannot perform costs more than a lost bid.
Ask for a debrief
When you lose, request a debrief. Buyers will usually tell you where your bid scored low, and that is the fastest way to improve the next one.
General information for Northern Alberta business owners. It is not legal, tax or lending advice.
Talk it through with us
Call, email or send a request. We reply within one business day.