Comparison
Tender alert services compared: free, paid and AI screening
Tender alert services fall into four kinds: free official alerts, paid keyword alert services, intelligence platforms and AI screening tools. Free alerts suit a first look. Paid services save sorting time. Intelligence platforms suit larger teams. AI screening suits small teams who want a short list with reasons.
Last updated 22 October 2026
The four kinds at a glance
This table compares the kinds of service, not named products. Check current pricing and features with any provider.
| Kind | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Free official alerts | A first look at what is published | Keyword noise, and sorting by hand |
| Paid keyword services | Saving time on sorting and tagging | Subscriptions, sometimes with annual terms |
| Intelligence platforms | Larger teams that need buyer and market data | Higher cost, and more than a small team may need |
| AI screening tools | A short list with reasons, and help acting on it | Estimates are a guide, not a forecast |
When is each right?
- Free official alerts: start here if you are new, and accept some noise.
- Paid keyword services: worth it if sorting notices costs you more than the subscription.
- Intelligence platforms: best for larger teams that need buyer and market data.
- AI screening tools such as Opptix: best if you want a short list, reasons and help acting on it.
What should you check before choosing?
- Is the pricing clear, and is there a contract?
- Does it cover the notices you care about?
- Does it explain why a notice matches?
- Can you try it free?
When not to choose Opptix
Choose something else if you only want a free feed of every notice and are happy to sort it yourself. Choose an intelligence platform if you need deep market data across many buyers. Choose Opptix if you want screening, reasons and help turning an opportunity into a conversation, paid for in credits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tender alert service for a small business?
It depends on how much time you can spend sorting notices. Free alerts suit a start, and screening tools suit teams who want a short list.
Are free tender alerts good enough?
They can be, if you do not mind sorting through irrelevant notices.
How is Opptix different from a tender alert?
An alert tells you a notice exists. Opptix also screens it, estimates fit, and helps you act.
See it on your own market
Create a free account, describe what you sell, and use your £20 of free credit.