Prime contractor

The firm that signs the contract with the buyer and is responsible for the whole job, even when parts are done by subcontractors.

Also called: Prime, Lead contractor

Related terms

Subcontractor

A firm that does part of a public contract for the prime contractor rather than for the buyer directly. Subcontracting is a common first step into government work for small firms.

Teaming agreement

An agreement between firms to bid together, setting out who leads, who does what and how the work and money will be shared if they win.