Your browser has JavaScript turned off, so here is the full checklist with the official links.
- Get your certificates of insurance ready: Most GCs and agencies won't sign a sub without them. Your insurance broker issues them; the City's free APEX Accelerator can help with the rest. Official site →
- Set up PASSPort and pick your commodity codes: The codes put you on the City's bidder lists, so agencies invite you to bid. It's also required before City M/WBE certification. Each code needs a proof document (an invoice or contract on letterhead). Official site →
- Fill in your BuildingConnected profile: Most large NYC GCs send bid invitations through it. Your Work Performed, Service Area and "Subcontractor" business type decide which invitations you get. Official site →
- Get prequalified with a GC that just won work: Each GC has its own sub prequalification form. Start with the GCs that just won public work: they're the ones buying out subs now. See this week's GCs to call →
- Find out your bonding capacity: Many public jobs need a bid bond and a performance bond. Knowing your capacity tells you which jobs you can take on. The City's free APEX Accelerator can point you to help. Official site →
- Write a one-page capability statement: It's what GCs and agencies ask for first: your work, past jobs, insurance limits and bonding on one page. The City's free APEX Accelerator helps with it. Official site →
- Set up NYS Contract Reporter alerts: State agency bids of $50,000 and up (plus many towns, schools and authorities) are posted there. An Opportunities Profile sends you a daily email for your categories. Official site →
- Apply for SCA prequalification: It's required for most School Construction Authority work (all but vendor jobs under $10,000). The application is detailed, so start early. Official site →
- Open a City Record Online account: City bids over $100,000 are advertised there. We already read it for you, but you need the account to download bid documents. Official site →
- Register on SAM.gov: Needed for any federal contract, and some MTA bids too. Renew every year. Sites that charge to register you are not the government: SAM.gov is free. Official site →