Why Subcontracting Matters

Subcontracting offers several advantages for businesses seeking growth:

Access to larger contracts – join major projects you couldn’t deliver alone.

Steady work – established contractors often provide repeat subcontracting opportunities.

Lower entry barriers – less bureaucracy than registering directly with buyers.

Build credibility – working with known contractors enhances your reputation.

Network growth – meet key procurement and project managers through main contractors.

How to Find Subcontracting Opportunities

Identify prime contractors in your sector – large construction firms, consultancies, or service providers.

Monitor their supply chain portals – many companies have dedicated subcontractor or supplier registration pages.

Attend supplier engagement days – events hosted by primes often highlight upcoming subcontracting work.

Join frameworks and PSLs where primes are members – contractors often invite approved suppliers to quote.

Network through trade associations and industry events – word-of-mouth and introductions remain highly effective.

Demonstrate your capability – provide case studies, certifications, and references to prove reliability.

Examples of Subcontracting Opportunities in the UK
Construction & Infrastructure

Balfour Beatty, Kier, Skanska, Laing O’Rourke – civil engineering, building, and FM subcontracting.

HS2 Ltd and Network Rail frameworks – rail and transport subcontracting opportunities.

Housing associations and local councils – maintenance, refurbishment, and construction projects.

Professional & Technical Services

Arup, WSP, Mott MacDonald – engineering, consultancy, and project management subcontracting.

IT and technology primes – large corporates like BT, Capita, and Atos hire specialist IT or digital service subcontractors.

Healthcare & Facilities Management

NHS trusts and healthcare frameworks – medical supplies, catering, cleaning, and facilities subcontracting.

Private hospital groups – building services, maintenance, and specialist equipment installation.

Tips for Success

Register with multiple prime contractors – the more primes you work with, the more opportunities arise.

Stay visible – attend supplier events, submit capabilities, and engage in newsletters.

Be compliant – maintain relevant insurances, certifications, and references.

Build relationships – strong connections with procurement teams often lead to repeat work.

Track opportunities – use a simple CRM or Google Sheet to log subcontracting invitations, deadlines, and outcomes.

Benefits

Access contracts and tenders you couldn’t win alone.

Build long-term relationships with prime contractors.

Increase business visibility in multiple sectors.

Reduce administrative burden compared with direct tendering.

Strengthen your reputation and credibility as a reliable partner.