ACEC-BC publishes Position Papers to support member understanding of contracts and common industry practices. Position Papers are not legal advice, and members are always encouraged to seek independent legal and insurance advice before entering contracts.

Why we produced this Position Paper

ACEC-BC member firms play a key role in fostering a fair, transparent, and mutually respectful business environment, while upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical practice. To support these values, the Small Firms Council developed this Position Paper in conjunction with the Business Practice Committee to provide guidance to small firms when partnering with other firms in pursuit of consulting services contracts.

In competitive procurement processes, prime consultants frequently engage subconsultants as part of their project teams. Subconsultants typically contribute specialized expertise or perspectives that may not otherwise be available within the prime consultant’s team, including technical knowledge, market experience, or local presence. This Position Paper highlights the importance of protecting the commercial interests of small firms that provide support to prime consultants, particularly where there may be differences in firm size, capacity, or resources.