Pre-qualification allows Government buyers to ensure suppliers possess the key requirements to deliver a particular service, including licensing, insurances, financial viability and proven capability.

Information about pre-tender briefings are provided through SA Tenders and Contracts and agencies may also elect to communicate about briefings via email.

If pre-qualification is required and you are not yet a pre-qualified contracted supplier, your chances of securing Government projects will be very limited.

Following pre-qualification, buyers have the confidence their contracted suppliers are all capable, skilled and able to deliver. In such instances, a simple quotation process can then be used to select a preferred supplier for each specific project.

In categories such as Building and Construction, pre-qualification of suppliers is a common approach used by Government to secure appropriately qualified and experienced businesses through a simplified, more streamlined process.

How do you know if you need to be pre-qualified?

First, start by doing a search for your key product or service on the SA Tenders and Contracts website. This will highlight the contracts already in place that include pre-qualification. Engagement is the key so making contact with Government buyers is recommended so that you understand the pre-qualification process.

Learn more on the Department for Infrastructure and Transport’s pre-qualification process here.