Guide to Finding Subcontracting Business

Market your services directly to larger firms

Find out which contractors have needs and connect with them via cold calling, mail, press kits, and networking.

I recommend: The Small Business Administration Subcontracting Opportunities Directory is a list of contacts, searchable by state, of subcontracting firms with large Federal contracts. Onvia collects contractor information for government work and commercial construction projects. McGraw Hill Construction and Constructionwire specialize in construction contract leads.

Add your name to listings or directories of subcontractors

Industry Web sites and professional organizations maintain directories of available subcontractors, and you can often add your name for free or a low cost.

I recommend: The National Subcontractors Association provides contractors with listings of subcontractors, and also provides a variety of other services and information to subcontractors. ServiceMagic.com matches people and businesses with the skilled professionals they need. Bids411 is another matching service with a local orientation.

Attend trade shows

Attending trade shows will give you an opportunity to connect and network with others in your industry, including the prime contractors who may be able to give you work.

I recommend: The Ultimate Trade Show Resource maintains a database, searchable by industry, of over 15,000 trade shows, exhibits and events in the United States and beyond.

Read industry publications

The classified section in a trade magazine will often list opportunities for subcontractors, and the articles will give you ideas for marketing your own services as well as keep you up to date on what other subcontractors and contractors in the industry are doing.

I recommend: TradePub.com offers free year-long subscriptions to industry magazines for qualified subscribers.