BEST FREELANCE WEBSITES ! Having trouble landing quality RFP projects on major freelance platforms? You’re not the only one. The U.S. freelance workforce will grow to 86.5 million by 2027, which means over half of the total U.S. workforce will be freelancing. This boom creates exciting possibilities but also brings new challenges for contractors like us.
The freelancing industry has seen remarkable growth over the last several years, yet many professionals still worry about steady income. The numbers tell the story – more than 1 in 5 Americans worry they won’t make enough money at their jobs. That’s why freelancing becomes such an attractive option. The right platforms can transform your prospects, especially when it comes to specialized work like bid writing. A skilled freelance bid writer’s proposals can be a game-changer to win more contracts.
Maybe you need good freelance sites like Upwork, or you’re looking for websites that focus on RFP work for independent contractors. Either way, we’ve got your back. Our research uncovered 15 top options that connect you with quality clients and help you reach beyond your local network. This piece covers everything from massive platforms with millions of freelancers to specialized RFP-focused sites, helping you find your way through the 2025 freelance marketplace.
RFPVerse
Image Source: RFPVerse
Founded in 2023 with its headquarters in London, RFPVerse stands out among the top freelance websites as the only platform dedicated to bid writing services. This specialized marketplace connects expert bid writers with organizations that need professional proposal writing services throughout the UK.
RFPVerse overview
RFPVerse serves as a complete ecosystem for RFP professionals and bridges the gap between businesses and specialized bid writers. The platform gives detailed reviews and helps procurement teams learn about bid writing software to make better decisions. Its laser focus on the RFP industry has made it a trusted resource for organizations looking to become skilled at winning government contracts.
RFPVerse key features
RFPVerse differs from platforms like Upwork because of its dedicated focus on bid writing expertise. The platform offers:
- Stringent vetting process for all freelance bid writers to ensure quality
- BidTalentConnect platform that matches clients with verified, top-tier bid professionals
- Secure escrow payment system that protects both parties by releasing funds based on project milestones
- Specialized expertise in UK public sector contracts and government opportunities
The platform also features an accessible interface that caters to both bid writers and organizations looking for their services.
RFPVerse pricing
Unlike many good freelance sites, RFPVerse doesn’t list specific pricing on their website. The platform uses a project-based model that lets businesses scale their bidding resources without long-term costs.
RFPVerse best use cases
RFPVerse delivers great value to companies pursuing public sector opportunities. Organizations benefit from bid professionals who excel at creating structured responses for government contracts. Businesses that need to quickly scale their proposal writing capabilities for time-sensitive projects find the platform incredibly useful.
The platform also serves as a perfect showcase for freelance bid writers who want to connect with clients seeking their specific skills instead of competing on general freelancing platforms.
Upwork
Image Source: Upwork
Upwork stands as a 8-year old platform in the freelance market that connects millions of independent professionals with clients worldwide. The platform has become a powerful resource for professionals who seek RFP projects and other opportunities.
Upwork overview
The merger of Elance and oDesk in 2015 created Upwork, which has grown into a detailed human and AI-powered work marketplace. The platform attracts 50M+ monthly visitors and has built a strong reputation among freelancers and clients. Professionals rate their clients 4.9/5 based on 2.4M+ reviews. This large user base makes it a prime destination to find contract opportunities of all types, including RFP-related projects.
Upwork key features
The platform’s resilient infrastructure sets it apart from other websites for independent contractors and aids successful project completion:
- Talent Marketplace™ for browsing hourly or fixed-price work and submitting proposals
- Project Catalog™ offering pre-defined services with clear scope, timing, and pricing
- Payment protection through escrow for fixed-price projects and weekly billing for hourly work
- Built-in communication system with file sharing, milestone tracking, and video integration
- “Connects” system for submitting proposals to jobs (freelancers receive free Connects monthly)
Upwork pricing
Freelancers can join Upwork without any cost, but the platform uses a service fee model. They pay a variable service fee ranging from 0-15% on all earnings. Clients choose between different pricing tiers – Marketplace plan with 3% or 5% fee on freelancer payments, and Business Plus with 8% or 10% service fee.
Upwork best use cases
The platform’s massive talent pool spans virtually every field. It excels at connecting clients with professionals for both short-term tasks and long-term projects. The platform has experienced rapid growth in AI and machine learning related projects, making it perfect for businesses that welcome innovation. The advanced filtering options help clients find specialized talent for RFP projects, particularly proposal writers and bid specialists.
Freelancer.com
Image Source: Freelancer
Freelancer.com, a 14-year old platform founded in 2009, has grown into the world’s largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace based on user count. The platform connects employers with skilled professionals in any discipline.
Freelancer.com overview
The platform serves over 84.5 million employers and freelancers across 247 countries, regions, and territories. Clients post projects and receive competitive proposals from independent contractors through a bidding model. The company’s headquarters in Sydney, Australia, along with offices in Vancouver, London, Buenos Aires, Manila, and Jakarta, make it a global leader among websites for independent contractors.
Freelancer.com key features
This platform stands out from other websites similar to Upwork with several unique offerings:
- Contest system lets employers receive multiple submissions but pay only for the winning entry
- Milestone Payment System holds funds in escrow until work meets client satisfaction
- Membership tiers provide increasing benefits, including more bids and skills listings
- Mobile app enables on-the-go project management and collaboration
- Preferred Freelancer Program connects elite professionals with high-value projects
Freelancer.com pricing
Both employers and freelancers can join the platform for free. Employers pay a 3% fee or $3.00 (whichever is greater) on fixed-price projects and 3% on hourly work. Freelancers pay a 10% fee or $5.00 minimum on fixed-price projects and 10% on hourly payments. Paid membership plans range from Basic ($4.99/month) to Premier ($99/month), offering more bids, skills listings, and perks progressively.
Freelancer.com best use cases
The platform excels at connecting clients with RFP writing specialists, making it one of the top freelance websites. Platform statistics show clients rate RFP writers 4.9 out of 5 from over 17,000 reviews, that indicates high satisfaction rates. The platform works best for:
- Businesses looking for competitive bids across multiple price points
- Projects needing specialized expertise (including RFP writing)
- Companies wanting to review multiple proposals through the contest feature
- Freelancers building an international client base
Fiverr
Image Source: Fiverr
Fiverr, 13 years old, has grown from a simple “$5 gig” marketplace into one of the top freelance websites that connects millions of freelancers offering hundreds of service categories. The platform creates a unique ecosystem for people who need RFP projects through its gig-based model.
Fiverr overview
The platform takes a different approach than sites like Upwork. Instead of project bidding, Fiverr connects buyers with freelancers through “Gigs” – pre-packaged services that come with clear deliverables and prices. The platform’s credibility for serious RFP work has increased since launching Fiverr Pro, which brings in expert freelancers vetted by the core team.
Fiverr key features
Several notable elements make Fiverr stand out among quality freelance platforms:
- Seller levels system (Seller, Level 1, Level 2, Top Rated) rewards performance metrics such as quick communication and on-time delivery
- Fiverr Pro gives access to vetted professionals who have proven track records
- Complete review system helps make informed hiring decisions through ratings and written reviews
- Workspace tool helps manage client relationships, invoicing, and contracts
Fiverr pricing
The platform is free to join but uses a tiered fee structure. Sellers pay a 20% service fee on their project earnings. Buyers pay a $2 service fee for orders up to $40 and 5% for orders above $40. Gig packages come in three tiers (Basic, Standard, Premium) that offer more features and higher prices as you go up.
Fiverr best use cases
The platform excels at connecting clients with specialized RFP services. Users can choose from over 2,200 RFP-related services including bid proposal writing, government contract work, and RFP response services. Businesses that need quick project turnaround without lengthy hiring processes find great value here. The platform works best for finding specialized talent for specific RFP components rather than managing entire projects end-to-end.
Toptal
Image Source: Toptal
Toptal stands out among top freelance websites as a marketplace for elite freelance talent. The platform claims to work with only the “top 3%” of applicants. This premium approach creates an exclusive ecosystem for high-value projects that sets it apart from more available platforms.
Toptal overview
The platform operates as an elite network that connects businesses with carefully vetted professionals in software development, design, finance, project management, and marketing. “Top Talent” forms the basis for the name Toptal, which reflects their selective positioning. Their rigorous screening process takes 3-8 weeks to complete. This results in a talent pool that differs fundamentally from other websites similar to Upwork.
Toptal key features
Several distinctive elements make Toptal stand out among good freelance sites:
- Multi-stage vetting process that has language assessment, skill testing, live screening, and test projects
- No-risk trial period that lets clients work with a freelancer for up to two weeks before making a commitment
- Personalized matching system where the core team works to understand clients’ technical needs and team dynamics
- Global talent network ready to handle specialized projects including blockchain and AI
Toptal pricing
Toptal differs from most websites for independent contractors by requiring clients to pay a $79 monthly subscription fee to access their talent network. The platform requires an original deposit of $500 to start the hiring process. Freelancer rates typically range from $60-$200+ per hour based on expertise. Part-time engagements (20 hours/week) cost between $1,000-$3,200 weekly. Full-time commitments (40 hours/week) can reach $2,000-$6,400 weekly.
Toptal best use cases
Toptal proves valuable for companies seeking pre-vetted talent without lengthy recruitment processes, even with higher costs than other top freelancing websites. The platform excels especially when you have complex projects that need top-tier professional expertise. Companies with flexible budgets that value quality over cost find the platform most beneficial. The platform’s lack of pricing transparency makes it unsuitable for organizations with strict budget constraints.
Guru
Image Source: Big Interview Resources
25-year old Guru ranks among the most established top freelance websites in the industry. The platform creates a reliable marketplace where businesses and independent professionals cooperate on projects of all types, including RFP opportunities.
Guru overview
Over 2 million registered freelancers and approximately 800,000 employers use the platform. The Pittsburgh-based company has managed to keep its strong position in the freelance market by focusing on secure work management and payment protection since its launch.
Guru key features
Several distinctive tools make Guru different from other websites for independent contractors:
- WorkRooms let you manage projects, team members, files, communication, and payments in one place
- SafePay payment protection system holds funds in escrow until work approval
- Four flexible agreement types: fixed price, hourly, task-based, and recurring payment
- RFP response capabilities help teams cooperate and save up to 80% of time on RFP responses
Guru pricing
Employers post jobs completely free with a small 2.9% handling fee on each paid invoice. The platform gives employers 100% cashback on this fee when using eCheck or wire transfer. Freelancers join free but pay a job fee between 5-9% based on their membership level. Paid plans start at $8.95/month with annual billing.
Guru best use cases
The platform’s specialized templates and knowledge repositories make it perfect for RFP responses. Teams working on complex proposals benefit from Guru’s secure environment that lets multiple contributors work together without version control issues. Many organizations now use Guru for all their RFP/RFI submissions and report better win rates.
PeoplePerHour
Image Source: Colorlib
PeoplePerHour stands out as a dynamic marketplace that 3 million freelancers and 1 million businesses worldwide trust, making it a compelling choice among top freelance websites for RFP projects.
PeoplePerHour overview
This 16-year old platform connects businesses with talented freelancers across hundreds of skill categories. PeoplePerHour has successfully completed over 1 million projects and paid out more than £130M to freelancers. The company’s offices in London and Athens serve startups and SMEs that need adaptable growth solutions.
PeoplePerHour key features
The platform sets itself apart from other websites similar to Upwork through several distinctive capabilities:
- AI matching system connects freelancers to relevant projects automatically
- Offers system delivers pre-packaged freelance services with transparent deliverables and pricing
- WorkStream helps manage project communication, files, feedback and payments efficiently
- Escrow payment protection secures client funds until work completion
PeoplePerHour pricing
Both clients and freelancers can join the platform without registration fees. Freelancers pay service fees based on a tiered structure:
- 20% on earnings below £250 lifetime billing per buyer
- 7.5% between £250-£5000
- Only 3.5% on earnings over £5000
PeoplePerHour best use cases
The platform excels at matching businesses with RFP proposal writing experts, as shown by its specialized service offerings. Companies that need quick project turnaround without lengthy hiring processes find great value in the platform.
Image Source: LinkedIn
LinkedIn has emerged as a powerhouse for finding RFP opportunities, with over 706 million users worldwide and more than 30 million companies on the platform.
LinkedIn overview
The platform has transformed from a simple job board into a complete professional network. Professional networks help 76% of freelancers market their services. LinkedIn plays a crucial role since 95% of recruiters keep taking them, and more than 6 million IT decision makers have registered accounts.
LinkedIn key features
- Projects section to showcase completed work and improve profile searchability
- Services Marketplace to find and connect with clients seeking specific services
- AI-Assisted Search helps recruiters find talent with specific expertise
- WorkRooms makes shared project management effective
LinkedIn pricing
A free basic membership comes with limited functionality. Premium Career costs $29.99/month, Premium Business $59.99/month, Sales Navigator Core $99.99/month, and Recruiter Lite $170.00/month for expanded access.
LinkedIn best use cases
Regular keyword searches on LinkedIn yield excellent results for finding RFPs. Weekly searches typically generate 10-15 relevant RFPs. The platform excels at building lasting client relationships, and 79% of freelancers use it daily.
ServiceScape
Image Source: ServiceScape
ServiceScape stands out from websites like Upwork by focusing on just four core services: editing, translating, writing, and graphic design. This targeted approach helps maintain higher quality standards.
ServiceScape overview
ServiceScape boasts 25 years of industry experience with more than 347,000 completed projects for over 99,000 registered clients. The platform’s quality-first model ensures thorough verification of each professional’s credentials before account approval. Users consistently give excellent feedback, with projects averaging 4.912/5 stars.
ServiceScape key features
The platform’s professional-centric approach sets it apart from other good freelance sites:
- No bidding wars – professionals determine their rates while clients choose based on expertise and fit
- Detailed professional profiles highlight credentials, availability, ratings and completed projects
- Secure messaging system enables client-freelancer communication
- Monthly payment distribution follows tax documentation submission
ServiceScape pricing
Both clients and freelancers can join without any cost. The platform’s 50% commission applies to all project earnings. Professionals receive their monthly payments after submitting required tax forms (W-9/W-8BEN).
ServiceScape best use cases
Quality-focused businesses thrive on this platform rather than those seeking lowest costs. The platform proves particularly valuable for academic and literary projects that need specialized editing or writing expertise. Many freelancers build lasting relationships through the platform, with some client partnerships extending beyond 6-7 years.
FlexJobs
Image Source: FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a 16-year old premier platform that focuses exclusively on remote, hybrid, and flexible job opportunities across more than 50 career categories.
FlexJobs overview
The platform runs on a subscription-based model. Their research team carefully vets every job listing to ensure legitimacy and eliminate scams. The platform lists thousands of hand-screened remote jobs that are perfect for proposal writers looking for legitimate RFP projects.
FlexJobs key features
FlexJobs stands out among websites for independent contractors with these benefits:
- Scam-free environment where professionals verify every job listing
- Career resources such as webinars, career advice, and skill assessments
- Advanced search features to find relevant opportunities quickly
- Job alerts for new position notifications
FlexJobs pricing
FlexJobs subscription options are straightforward:
- 14-Day Trial: USD 2.95
- 4-Week Trial: USD 5.95
- Monthly Subscription: USD 23.95 every four weeks
- Annual Subscription: USD 71.40 per year
FlexJobs best use cases
The platform works best for professionals seeking proposal writer positions with flexible arrangements. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to write RFP responses, manage proposal submissions, and lead proposal teams.
Behance
Image Source: Behance
Behance, Adobe’s professional network for creatives, stands out as an unexpected yet powerful platform among top freelance websites to find RFP-related projects and clients.
Behance overview
Adobe acquired Behance in 2012, six years after its 2006 launch. The platform has grown to include over 50 million members worldwide. Creative work on the platform gets billions of views each year. Many professionals say Behance brings them up to 70% of their clients. While it started as a portfolio showcase site, Behance now offers comprehensive freelance features.
Behance key features
Freelancers looking for RFP work will find several useful tools on the platform:
- A status toggle for freelance and full-time availability
- Custom service listings with pricing and timeline options
- A system to handle client project proposals
- Built-in Stripe payment processing for security
Behance pricing
You can start with a free membership, but expect platform fees between 15-30% on transactions. Pro membership comes with better perks – zero platform fees and exclusive access to recommended freelance jobs. Pro subscribers see their engagement jump by 45% in the first month and get 4x more job leads overall.
Behance best use cases
Visual communicators who need to showcase proposal designs thrive on Behance. A quick search for “RFP design” shows thousands of relevant projects. This makes the platform an unexpected goldmine for RFP-related opportunities.
SimplyHired
Image Source: www.simplyhired.com
SimplyHired stands out as a robust job aggregator. It pulls listings from thousands of websites worldwide and remains one of the lesser-known top freelance websites for RFP projects.
SimplyHired overview
Gautam Godhwani launched SimplyHired in 2003. The platform now operates as a publishing partner of Indeed under Recruit Holdings. It gathers and freely distributes job postings from partner sites through a pay-to-contact model. The platform serves job seekers through its search engine and mobile app that connects employers with qualified candidates.
SimplyHired key features
- Job filtering options let you search specifically for remote RFP positions
- The mobile app runs on App Store and Google Play so you can job hunt anywhere
- AI-powered search tools deliver results that match your profile
- Simply Apply lets you submit applications with just one click
- Your job posts appear on seven major boards including Indeed and Glassdoor
SimplyHired pricing
Employers can post jobs without any cost. The platform charges only $9.99 per reveal to contact candidates. The costs change based on job location, position type and market conditions.
SimplyHired best use cases
Freelancers find SimplyHired useful as a central hub to connect with clients without managing multiple platforms. The platform suits professionals who can handle client relationships and payment processing on their own. Users can apply to both freelance and traditional positions from a single website, which saves time and effort.
FoundationList
Image Source: Foundation List
FoundationList helps freelancers connect with organizations in the nonprofit, foundation, healthcare, and educational sectors. This focused approach makes it a hidden gem among top freelance websites for professionals looking to work with purpose-driven organizations.
FoundationList overview
The platform serves as a national job board that brings mission-driven organizations together with talented professionals. More than 10,000 employers across the country actively use the platform. The site has gained over 5.1 million Google impressions in the last year. FoundationList operates as an S-Corporation that follows green practices to serve the nonprofit sector.
FoundationList key features
FoundationList stands out from other websites for independent contractors with these features:
- Extended network reach through 7,000+ articles and 1,100+ referring websites that drive targeted traffic
- Detailed promotion with social media outreach, job aggregation, and automated email alerts
- Logo inclusion and unlimited word count for every posting
- Boosted visibility tools that showcase opportunities to experienced professionals
FoundationList pricing
The platform keeps it simple with one-time fees and no monthly charges:
- 30-Day Standard Listing: USD 109.00
- 45-Day Extended Listing: USD 129.00
- 60-Day Featured Listing: USD 149.00 (best value)
FoundationList best use cases
RFP specialists who target foundation and nonprofit sectors will find great value here. The platform delivers excellent results for professionals who want meaningful work with purpose-driven organizations.
BidPrime
Image Source: BidPrime Blog
BidPrime helps businesses find government contracting opportunities as soon as they appear. Its proprietary technology tracks over 110,000 entities across North America to deliver crucial RFP details.
BidPrime overview
The platform serves as a complete database of government business opportunities that connects users with relevant bid requests and specifications. Users receive opportunities within 45 minutes after posting, thanks to the platform’s daily monitoring of federal, state, and local RFP announcement sources.
BidPrime key features
BidPrime distinguishes itself from other top freelance websites for government opportunities through:
- Up-to-the-minute alerts for customized bid opportunities in the US and Canada
- Bid specification documents sent straight to your inbox
- Proprietary Opportunity Tracer technology to monitor hard-to-track portals
- Credit card-free 30-day trial
BidPrime pricing
Three payment plans are available: Enhanced, Expert, and Enterprise. The platform doesn’t publish flat-rate pricing, so potential users need to ask for a demo or quote.
BidPrime best use cases
Companies seeking government contracts at federal, state, and local levels will benefit from BidPrime. The platform becomes especially valuable when you have complex RFPs that need extra preparation time. Early access and detailed documentation give businesses a competitive edge.
Clutch
Image Source: BD&C – Business Development & Consulting
Clutch stands out among top freelance websites as a B2B ratings and reviews platform that connects businesses with service providers through verified client experiences. The Washington, DC-based company really assesses businesses based on client reviews and market presence.
Clutch overview
The platform works as a complete B2B directory to connect companies with qualified service providers. The platform helps startups “cut through the noise” when they search for trusted partners in software development and marketing. Clutch’s careful vetting process includes client interviews to keep all reviews credible and detailed.
Clutch key features
Clutch differs from other websites similar to Upwork in several ways:
- Case study-style reviews showcase specific company strengths
- Budget range, expertise, and project requirement filters help narrow down choices
- Agency profiles display pricing information and client portfolios
- Client reviews, work quality, and market presence determine rankings
Clutch pricing
Users can choose between a free plan, a Pro plan with better collaboration features, and an Enterprise plan customized for larger organizations.
Clutch best use cases
B2B companies benefit most from Clutch’s credible, industry-specific feedback. The platform serves as a great way to get proof of a freelancer’s expertise in RFP development. Business leaders and decision-makers use the platform to learn about potential service providers in detail.
Comparison Table
| Platform | Founded | Platform Focus | Key Features | Pricing Structure | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RFPVerse | 2023 | Specialized bid writing services | – Thorough vetting process – BidTalentConnect platform – Secure escrow payments | Project-based (not publicly disclosed) | UK public sector opportunities and government contracts |
| Upwork | 2015 | General freelance marketplace | – Talent Marketplace – Project Catalog – Payment protection – Built-in communication | Freelancers: 0-15% fee Clients: 3-10% fee | Projects ranging from quick tasks to ongoing work, with focus on AI/ML |
| Freelancer.com | 2009 | Global freelancing marketplace | – Contest system – Milestone payments – Preferred Freelancer Program | Freelancers: 10% or $5 min Employers: 3% or $3 min | Competitive bidding projects with worldwide clients |
| Fiverr | 2010 | Gig-based services | – Seller levels system – Fiverr Pro – Workspace tool | Sellers: 20% fee Buyers: $2-5% fee | Fast-paced projects and specialized RFP services |
| Toptal | N/A | Premium freelance talent | – Multi-stage vetting – No-risk trial – Custom matching | $79 monthly subscription $500 original deposit $60-200+/hour rates | Advanced projects needing expert professionals |
| Guru | 1998 | Project collaboration | – WorkRooms – SafePay – Four agreement types | Employers: 2.9% fee Freelancers: 5-9% fee | RFP responses and team projects |
| PeoplePerHour | 2007 | Freelance marketplace | – AI matching system – Offers system – WorkStream tool | Freelancers: 3.5-20% tiered fee | Quick delivery tasks and targeted project needs |
| N/A | Professional networking | – Services Marketplace – AI-Assisted Search – Projects section | Free – $170/month (various tiers) | Developing lasting professional connections | |
| ServiceScape | N/A | Specialized services | – No bidding wars – Detailed profiles – Secure messaging | 50% commission on all earnings | High-quality academic and literary work |
| FlexJobs | 2007 | Remote work opportunities | – Scam-free environment – Career resources – Job alerts | $2.95 – $71.40 (various durations) | Remote proposal writing roles |
Conclusion
Choosing the right freelance platform for RFP projects is simpler than you might think. This detailed piece explores 15 platforms that cater to freelancers of all skill levels and specializations.
RFPVerse distinguishes itself as the only platform dedicated to bid writing services. Popular marketplaces like Upwork, Freelancer.com, and Fiverr provide broader opportunities across many categories. Toptal serves those who need premium talent at higher costs.
ServiceScape and BidPrime excel in niche markets by focusing on quality rather than quantity. LinkedIn isn’t primarily a freelance website, but it provides valuable networking opportunities that often lead to RFP projects.
Platform pricing structures vary substantially. Some platforms charge subscription fees, while others take commission percentages. Several offer free basic memberships with premium upgrades. Your budget should play a key role in platform selection.
Your final choice depends on your specific needs. New freelancers might find larger marketplaces like Upwork or Fiverr helpful. Experienced professionals who seek higher-paying opportunities could find Toptal or RFPVerse more fitting. Businesses that need specialized RFP expertise should look at platforms with strict vetting processes.
The freelance market keeps growing and will make up over half the U.S. workforce by 2027. This growth brings new challenges and opportunities. So picking the right platform becomes vital for success.
Note that successful freelancers often maintain profiles on multiple platforms to maximize their exposure. The best strategy involves understanding each platform’s strengths and using them to build a green freelance career focused on RFP projects.
Key Takeaways
The freelance marketplace is rapidly expanding, with specialized platforms emerging to serve RFP professionals alongside established general marketplaces.
• RFPVerse leads specialized RFP platforms – Only platform dedicated exclusively to bid writing with stringent vetting processes for UK government contracts.
• Upwork and Freelancer.com dominate general markets – Massive user bases (50M+ and 84M+ respectively) offer diverse RFP opportunities with competitive pricing structures.
• Premium platforms command higher rates – Toptal’s elite vetting process justifies $60-200+/hour rates but requires $79 monthly subscription plus $500 deposit.
• Diversify across multiple platforms – Successful freelancers maintain profiles on several sites to maximize exposure and opportunities in the growing market.
• Platform fees vary dramatically – Commission structures range from 3.5% (PeoplePerHour high earners) to 50% (ServiceScape), significantly impacting your net income.
The freelance workforce is projected to reach 86.5 million by 2027, making platform selection crucial for RFP professionals. Whether you’re seeking specialized bid writing opportunities or broader proposal projects, understanding each platform’s unique strengths and fee structures will help you build a sustainable freelance career in this expanding market.
FAQs
Q1. What are the top freelance platforms for finding RFP projects in 2025? Some of the best platforms for RFP projects include RFPVerse for specialized bid writing, Upwork and Freelancer.com for general freelance work, Toptal for premium talent, and BidPrime for government contract opportunities.
Q2. How has the freelance market evolved for RFP professionals? The freelance market has expanded significantly, with projections showing it will constitute over half the U.S. workforce by 2027. This growth has led to more specialized platforms and increased demand for RFP expertise across various industries.
Q3. What should I consider when choosing a freelance platform for RFP work? Consider factors such as the platform’s focus (general vs. specialized), pricing structure, vetting processes, and the types of clients it attracts. Also, evaluate the platform’s features for project management and secure payments.
Q4. How do fees vary across different freelance platforms? Fees can vary dramatically, from as low as 3.5% on some platforms to up to 50% on others. Some platforms charge subscription fees, while others take a percentage of earnings. It’s important to factor in these costs when choosing a platform.
Q5. Is it beneficial to use multiple freelance platforms for RFP work? Yes, many successful freelancers maintain profiles across multiple platforms to maximize their exposure and opportunities. This approach allows you to leverage the strengths of different platforms and diversify your client base.
