What term describes the process of only inviting qualified contractors to submit bids?

The term that describes the process of only inviting qualified contractors to submit bids is prequalification. This process involves evaluating contractors based on certain criteria, such as their experience, financial stability, and prior performance on similar projects, before they are allowed to participate in the bidding process. By prequalifying contractors, project owners can ensure that only those who meet specific standards of competency and reliability are considered, which helps to enhance the overall quality and success of the project. This method streamlines the bidding process and reduces the risk of poor-quality work or project delays caused by unqualified bidders.