How to register on the CSD and find tenders
Government is one of the biggest buyers in the country, and small businesses can and do win its work. The first step is the Central Supplier Database. Here is how to get registered and tender-ready, and where to find the opportunities.
The Central Supplier Database (CSD)
Businesses that want to supply national, provincial or local government must register on National Treasury's Central Supplier Database (CSD). Registration is free and done online. The CSD checks key details, such as your CIPC registration and tax compliance, directly with the source, and gives you a supplier number.
Get tender-ready first
- A registered company: how to register.
- Tax compliance with SARS, shown by your Tax Compliance Status. See tax for small businesses.
- Your B-BBEE certificate or affidavit: the free EME affidavit.
- A business bank account in the company's name.
- For construction work, the right CIDB grading.
Where tenders are published
National and provincial tenders are published on the government's eTender portal, and municipalities and state entities also advertise on their own websites. Smaller purchases are often done by request for quotation, so make sure your CSD profile lists everything you supply.
Mistakes that disqualify bids
- Missing a compulsory briefing session.
- Unsigned or incomplete forms, or a missing document.
- Submitting after the closing time, even by a minute.
- An expired tax compliance status or B-BBEE affidavit.
Read the whole document twice, make a checklist from it, and submit early.
Common questions
Is CSD registration free?
Yes. Registering on National Treasury's Central Supplier Database is free and done online.
What do I need to register on the CSD?
Typically your business registration details, tax details for SARS compliance checks, banking details in the business's name, and director information. The CSD verifies key details with the source.
Where can I find government tenders?
On the government eTender portal for national and provincial tenders, and on municipal and state entity websites. Many smaller purchases are done by request for quotation to suppliers on the CSD.