As a freelancer, finding relevant projects is one of the biggest challenges — especially when you’re just starting or exploring international opportunities. There are countless project platforms (sometimes called freelance marketplaces or job boards) that connect clients with independent professionals. In this guide, we’ll go through the most important and widely used platforms in both the German-speaking and global markets — including where to find remote, design, IT, content and other freelance work.

Whether you’re looking for your first project or want to expand into international clients, this overview helps you discover the best places to find freelance jobs in 2026.

Popular Platforms in the German-Speaking Market

Malt

Malt is a large independent freelancer marketplace where companies of all sizes can directly find and hire digital experts without agencies. The platform emphasizes transparent rates, local matching, and direct collaboration between freelancers and clients.

Visit Malt →

Freelance.de

Freelance.de focuses primarily on IT and engineering projects but also hosts opportunities for designers, marketing specialists and communicators. Registered freelancers can browse active job listings and manage applications efficiently.

Visit Freelance.de

freelancermap

freelancermap is a specialist marketplace mainly for IT and technical freelancers. You can create a detailed profile, apply directly to posted projects, and use search filters to find relevant assignments.

Visit freelancermap.de

tribeworks by Hays

tribeworks by Hays connects freelancers, primarily in IT and software development, with project opportunities through smart matching and AI-enhanced suggestions. The service is free for freelancers and focuses on transparent processes.

Visit tribeworks →

Twago

Twago allows companies to post project descriptions with budgets and deadlines, and freelancers can submit offers directly. The platform provides escrow payment handling and charges a commission on completed projects.

Visit Twago →

Smartjobr

Smartjobr is a mobile-first matching app that connects freelancers and clients directly. It uses algorithmic matching to notify freelancers of suitable jobs via push notifications.

Visit Smartjobr →

Gulp

Gulp combines freelance project assignments with staffing services, particularly for specialists in IT, engineering and finance. In addition to traditional freelance work, it also offers longer-term placements and consulting roles. It got aquired by Randstad recently.

Visit Gulp →

Global Freelance Marketplaces (English-Friendly)

Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest global freelance platforms, where businesses post jobs and freelancers submit proposals. It supports a broad range of categories including development, design, writing, and marketing.

Visit Upwork →

Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com connects millions of freelancers with clients around the world. It operates a bidding system for projects across tech, design, writing, admin work and more.

Visit Freelancer. com

Fiverr

Fiverr is a popular international marketplace where freelancers list services (called “gigs”) at set prices. It’s widely used for creative, technical and marketing services.

Visit Fiverr →

PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour focuses on freelance work by the hour or project, helping small businesses and freelancers connect for design, web development, marketing and more remote tasks.

PeoplePerHour →

Toptal

Toptal is a curated platform for top-tier freelancers, especially in software engineering, design and finance. Acceptance is selective, but projects often involve higher rates and enterprise clients, making it ideal for experienced professionals.

Visit TopTal →

Hubstaff Talent

Hubstaff Talent is a free resource connecting freelancers with employers worldwide. It features remote-work opportunities, allows direct contact without platform fees, and supports roles across development, marketing, design and more.

Visit Hubstaff Talent →

FlexJobs

FlexJobs specializes in remote and flexible work opportunities including freelance, part-time, and contract roles. It curates high-quality job listings across multiple industries and focuses on scam-free postings.

Visit FlexJobs →

Niche & Creative-Focused Platforms

These platforms are especially relevant if you’re focused on creative projects, design or content services:

• 99designs – design contests and freelance gigs for graphic designers

• Dribbble Jobs – design-oriented work postings

• Behance Job Board – creative and visual project listings

• Contena – premium remote writing gigs

• ProBlogger Job Board – writing-focused freelance work

• WriterAccess – content and writing gigs for professionals

How to Choose the Right Platform

• If you want high-volume bidding and a broad client base → Upwork, Freelancer.com, Fiverr

• If you prefer local or Europe-focused projects → Malt, freelancermap, freelance.de

• If you’re experienced and seek premium clients → Toptal, PeoplePerHour

• If remote and flexible opportunities are key → Hubstaff Talent, FlexJobs

Most of these platforms allow you to create a free profile and start applying to jobs right away — though some premium or curated sites may have stricter vetting processes.

Tips for Success on Freelance Marketplaces

• Build a detailed profile with a clear portfolio

• Use tailored proposals for each project

• Collect early reviews to boost your reputation

• Consider multiple platforms to increase chances of winning work

• Keep your hourly rate competitive but realistic

Conclusion

Project platforms are crucial for finding freelance gigs, especially when you want to expand beyond your existing network. Whether you focus on local opportunities like Malt and freelancermap or international clients via Upwork and Fiverr, there’s a platform suited to your needs. Many freelancers use a combination of marketplaces to ensure a steady pipeline of jobs and diversify sources of income.
Also check out our Greenprint if you want to know more about managing the freelance lifestyle better:

View Greenprint →