How do you find your project opportunities? Adam Addlestone.
BidCentral is the largest source for con-
project data (NRCA members get a 60
but aren’t open for tendering just yet.
struction projects in British Columbia.
per cent discount).
“It’s a great way to find the new projects
Managed by the non-profit BC Con-
“With a Premium account, you can
coming in your area, so you can follow
struction Association, it’s open to any
access all of the tender documents and
them and get ready to bid,” Addlestone
company that serves B.C.’s construc-
get notified about updates and changes
tion industry.
as soon as they happen,” Addlestone
“The purpose of BidCentral is to ag-
says. “You can also access the bidders’
gregate construction projects from all
list to see who’s bidding on the project
around the province in one place, where
and which general contractor, trade
all companies can easily access the
contractors, manufacturers and suppli-
projects, documents and drawings and
ers are involved.”
bidders’ lists,” says Adam Addlestone,
Regular free webinars – about once
Director of Business Development at
every three weeks – show new users
BidCentral. It’s easy to get started with
how to get the most out of the platform.
a free entry-level account, or companies
BidCentral also provides valuable
can choose a Premium subscription
pre-bid content, which describes proj-
that provides enhanced access to the
ects that are coming down the pipeline
notes. BidCentral is free to project owners, general contractors, architects and consultants, which ensures a steady stream of new projects are being posted. “One of BidCentral’s most notable features is the invitation to bid,” advises Addlestone. “This is a really important network and opportunity builder. A general contractor can use the BidCentral directory to find subtrades and invite them to bid on projects with them. For example, if I’m in Prince George but I see a project in Williams Lake and don’t have the resources in Williams Lake, I can find an electrician in Williams Lake to bid on the project with me as a subcontractor.” The BidCentral contractor directory Addlestone mentions above allows companies to create a business profile, enabling others to invite them to bid on projects or to request a quote from them. Addlestone works closely with the Northern Regional Construction Association (NRCA) on the service. “We value the partnership we have with NRCA. They do a great job of advocating for the construction industry in the North and making sure relevant projects are on BidCentral. Members of NRCA get a 60 per cent discount on their BidCentral subscription,” he says.
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Northern Regional Construction Association