Top 10 Websites to Find Independent Contractors

In a global economy driven by freelance talent, finding skilled independent contractors is essential. This article breaks down the top 10 platforms—like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal—where companies can discover and hire contractors across diverse industries. Learn how these sites compare and how platforms like Ontop can help you manage contracts, payments, and compliance efficiently when working with global talent.

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Top 10 Websites to Find Independent Contractors

In today's gig economy, independent contractors are in high demand. Companies of all sizes are looking for talented professionals to work on a project basis. But where can they find these independent contractors? This article explores the top 10 websites that connect companies with independent contractors, making it easier to find the right talent for your projects.

Workana

Workana is a popular platform that connects companies with freelancers across various industries. Whether you need a web developer, graphic designer, or content writer, Workana has a diverse pool of talented professionals. Companies can post their project requirements and browse through profiles to find the perfect match. Workana's rating system and client reviews help ensure that companies can make informed decisions before hiring an independent contractor.

Upwork

Upwork stands as one of the largest freelancing platforms globally, offering an extensive range of categories and skills[1]. Companies can post job listings and receive proposals from independent contractors worldwide. The platform provides tools for communication, time tracking, and secure payments, making it easier for companies to manage their projects and collaborate with freelancer. As of 2025, Upwork remains one of the best websites to find freelance jobs[2].

Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular platform connecting companies with independent contractors[2]. With over 32 million registered users, Freelancer offers a vast talent pool for companies to choose from. Companies can browse through freelancer profiles, view their portfolios, and communicate directly with potential candidates. Freelancer also provides a project management feature to help companies track the progress of their projects.

Fiverr

Fiverr has established itself as a go-to platform for finding independent contractors offering a wide range of services[2][4]. From graphic design and writing to programming and marketing, Fiverr hosts a diverse pool of workers. Companies can browse through freelancer profiles, view their portfolios, and hire the right talent for their projects. With over 300 categories, freelancers will have no problem finding the right gig for them on Fiverr[4].

LinkedIn is not only a professional networking platform but also a great place to find independent contractors[3]. With millions of professionals from various industries, companies can easily search for workers based on their skills, experience, and location. LinkedIn also provides recommendations and endorsements, making it easier to assess a person's expertise. Additionally, LinkedIn Services Marketplace has emerged as one of the best websites to find freelance jobs in 2025[1].

Toptal

Toptal is an exclusive talent network that connects companies with top independent contractors in the fields of software development, design, and finance[1][2]. Toptal has a rigorous screening process to ensure that only the top 3% of freelancers are accepted. Companies can access a highly curated pool of talent for their projects, making it ideal for businesses looking for specialized skills and expertise.

We Work Remotely

We Work Remotely has become a prominent platform for finding remote independent contractors[1]. The site specializes in connecting companies with professionals who work remotely, offering access to a global talent pool. This platform is particularly useful for businesses embracing remote work models and looking to hire contractors regardless of geographical location.

PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour offers a streamlined approach to finding independent contractors[2]. The platform allows businesses to post projects and receive proposals from freelancers, or browse through profiles to find the right match. PeoplePerHour's hourly rate model provides flexibility for both companies and contractors, making it suitable for projects of varying durations.

SimplyHired

SimplyHired serves as a comprehensive job search engine that includes listings for independent contractors[2]. Companies can post job opportunities and search for freelancers based on specific skills and location. The platform aggregates listings from various sources, providing a wide range of options for businesses looking to hire independent contractors.

Guru

Guru has established itself as a reliable platform for finding independent contractors across different industries[2]. The site offers a user-friendly interface where companies can post projects and receive bids from qualified freelancers. Guru's WorkRoom feature facilitates collaboration and project management, ensuring smooth communication between businesses and contractors.

Managing Your Independent Contractors Effectively

Finding the right independent contractors is just the first step. Once you've identified talented professionals for your projects, you need an efficient system to manage contracts, payments, and compliance across borders. This is where a global workforce management platform becomes essential.

When working with international contractors, businesses face challenges related to compliance, payment processing, and contract management. A comprehensive solution that handles these aspects can save time, reduce risks, and improve the contractor experience.

For example, with Ontop's global payroll solution, companies can streamline the entire contractor management process. From generating compliant contracts to processing payments in over 150 countries, the right platform eliminates administrative headaches while ensuring legal compliance. Contractors benefit from instant payments and additional financial tools like global money movement capabilities.

Conclusion

The gig economy continues to grow, offering businesses unprecedented access to global talent. These top 10 websites provide excellent starting points for finding independent contractors with the skills you need. Whether you're looking for creative professionals, technical experts, or specialized consultants, these platforms connect you with qualified candidates from around the world.

However, finding talent is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly leverage the benefits of working with independent contractors, especially across borders, companies need efficient systems for managing the entire contractor relationship lifecycle. By implementing the right tools and processes, businesses can build productive relationships with independent contractors while minimizing administrative burdens and compliance risks.