🎯 Bidding vs. Estimating: A 2-Part Construction Training Series

Too many contractors win jobs… and lose money.

Before you submit another bid, make sure your numbers are working for you — not against you.

This two-part online training will help you understand the difference between estimating and bidding, build profitable project numbers, and submit bids strategically and confidently.

📊 SESSION 1 – ESTIMATING FUNDAMENTALS

Many contractors jump straight to bidding without fully understanding the true cost of performing the work. This session focuses on estimating as the foundation of profitability and helps participants calculate project costs before deciding whether to bid.

You’ll learn how to break a project down into core cost components, identify hidden expenses, and evaluate risk. This session emphasizes smart decision-making — knowing when a job makes sense for your business and when it does not.

You’ll learn how to:

• Understand the difference between estimating and bidding
• Identify all major cost components of a project
• Account for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractors
• Include overhead, profit, and contingencies
• Evaluate whether a project is financially viable

📑 SESSION 2 – SMART BIDDING STRATEGIES

This session builds on the estimate created in Session 1 and focuses on turning numbers into a competitive and compliant bid. Learn how to use your estimate to set a bid price that supports your business goals — not just win work.

We’ll also cover how to review bid documents, avoid common mistakes, and submit bids with confidence.

You’ll learn how to:

• Use an estimate to determine a bid price
• Understand bid instructions and requirements
• Recognize differences between public and private bids
• Avoid underbidding and cash-flow problems
• Submit bids strategically and confidently

💻 FORMAT

Two live online sessions
Interactive instruction with practical examples
Ideal for new and growing contractors

💵 INVESTMENT

Non-Members: $39 for both sessions
OBDC Members: Free 

Not a member? Annual OBDC membership is just $25 per year — and gives you access to year-round classes, resources, and support.

This training is perfect for contractors who want to move from guessing at numbers to building profitable, sustainable businesses.

Register today and stop leaving money on the table.