B.U.I.L.D Standards
B.U.I.L.D Standards
Driving growth, skills development and contractor empowerment
To promote consistency, transformation and inclusive growth in South Africa’s construction sector, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure has gazetted specific B.U.I.L.D Standards applicable to all infrastructure projects aligned to cidb Grade 7 and above.
These standards are designed to ensure that large-scale infrastructure investment delivers meaningful economic and developmental impact across the industry:
Standard for Indirect Targeting
A minimum of 5% of the contract value must be allocated to the development of emerging contractors (cidb Grades 1–6). This Enterprise Development Standard ensures that projects exceeding R20 million actively support SMMEs through subcontracting opportunities, structured mentorship, business development support and targeted skills transfer. The objective is not only participation, but long-term sustainability and growth, enabling smaller contractors to progress into higher-value projects.
Standard for Skills Development
Infrastructure contracts must create workplace-based learning opportunities for TVET college learners, university students and candidates pursuing professional registration. This standard strengthens the construction skills pipeline by integrating practical, on-site experience with formal education, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.
This approach is particularly impactful for:
- College graduates, who gain the workplace exposure required to complete trade tests and qualify as artisans.
- Professional candidates, such as engineers and architects, who acquire the practical experience needed for professional registration.
Together, these standards ensure that infrastructure delivery not only builds critical assets, but also advances contractor development, skills transfer and sustainable transformation across South Africa’s construction industry.
Who is responsible for delivering B.U.I.L.D Standards?
- Clients ensure that development requirements a re embedded in all infrastructure contracts and that projects are registered with the cidb.
- Main contractors are responsible for creating workplace opportunities, employing learners and providing structured training and mentorship on-site.
- Professional Service Providers oversee implementation on behalf of client departments. They also create workplace opportunities for university and candidate learners, ensuring quality training, compliance and the development of future industry professionals.
Explore how B.U.I.L.D delivers real industry impact
What does the cidb B.U.I.L.D Programme entail? How is if funded? Which initiatives support contractor growth and skills development?
