Source: https://tendernation.io/glossary/mini-competition Glossary # Mini-competition A short competition run among the suppliers on a framework to award a specific call-off contract. Updated 14 Oct 2026 A mini-competition (also called a further competition) is a short tender run only among the suppliers already on a [framework](/glossary/framework), to award a specific [call-off contract](/glossary/call-off-contract). The framework's terms apply, and the buyer adds the details of the particular job. ## What it means The Procurement Act 2023 does not use the phrase "mini-competition". It calls this a "competitive selection process". Under [section 45(3)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/section/45), a framework can only provide for the award of a contract following a competitive selection process, unless section 45(4) applies (a single-supplier framework, or a framework with core terms and an objective way of selecting a supplier, often called direct award under the framework). [Section 46](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/section/46) sets the rules for that process. It may only include conditions of participation that are a proportionate way of checking legal and financial capacity or technical ability. The framework documents explain how competitions under it will be run. Under the Act, a contract award notice must be published after a call-off is awarded, according to the government's [frameworks guidance](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/procurement-act-2023-guidance-documents-define-phase/guidance-frameworks-html). Call-offs do not have a mandatory [standstill period](/glossary/standstill-period), though a buyer can choose to apply one. ## Why it matters for SMEs Mini-competitions are where framework places turn into revenue. They are usually quicker, shorter and more focused than a full tender, and the field is limited to framework suppliers, so the odds are better. But turnaround times can be tight. ## Practical tip Build a ready-to-use bid library for every framework you are on: case studies, CVs, method statements and pricing models aligned to the framework's lots. When an invitation lands you can then spend your time tailoring to the buyer's specific need, which is what wins mini-competitions. Browse [frameworks](/frameworks) to see which agreements cover your services. Find tenders that fit your business Search UK, EU and World Bank tenders in one place, get AI summaries and a fit score for each one, and track bids in a pipeline. Professional comes with a 14-day free trial, no card needed. [Browse live tenders](/opportunities)[Start free trial ](/register) 14-day free trial, no card required Browse by sector - [Construction work](https://tendernation.io/sectors/construction-work)374 - [Architecture, engineering & surveying](https://tendernation.io/sectors/architecture-engineering-surveying)134 - [IT services](https://tendernation.io/sectors/it-services)54 - [Business services](https://tendernation.io/sectors/business-services)177 - [Health and social work](https://tendernation.io/sectors/health-social-work)300 - [Sewage, refuse, cleaning & environmental](https://tendernation.io/sectors/sewage-refuse-cleaning-environmental)80 [All sectors ](/sectors) ## Nearby terms [Light touch contractA contract mainly for certain social, health, education and other people-focused services, which follows a more flexible set of procurement rules.](https://tendernation.io/glossary/light-touch-contract)[LotsSeparate parts of a procurement, divided by type of work or geography, that suppliers can bid for individually.](https://tendernation.io/glossary/lots)[MEAT (most economically advantageous tender)The legacy test for choosing a winning bid under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015, replaced by the most advantageous tender under the 2023 Act.](https://tendernation.io/glossary/meat)[Modern slavery statementAn annual statement, required of larger businesses under the Modern Slavery Act 2015, on steps taken to prevent slavery and trafficking in their supply chains.](https://tendernation.io/glossary/modern-slavery-statement)[Most advantageous tender (MAT)The bid that meets the buyer's requirements and scores best against the published award criteria, which a buyer may award the contract to.](https://tendernation.io/glossary/most-advantageous-tender)[Open procedureA single-stage competitive tender, open to any supplier, where everyone submits a full bid by the same deadline.](https://tendernation.io/glossary/open-procedure) [Read our procurement guides ](/guides)