If your business supplies goods, works or services to organisations in the public or utility sectors – or hopes to do so – you need to know about the changes. This includes supplying to government departments, the NHS, local authorities, universities, schools, social housing organisations, police and fire brigades and utility companies.
For years, winning government contracts has been a challenge for small businesses—too much red tape, long waiting periods, and high upfront costs. But now, that’s changing. The Procurement Act 2023, effective 24 February 2025, is designed to open up public sector contracts to SMEs. This is not just a policy shift—it’s a game changer.
📌 What’s Changing?
- Bid without insurance upfront.
- Simpler bidding process.
- Stronger & better payment terms.
- No long-term lockouts.
- Improved Find a Tender platform.
📌 How to Get Ready?
- Register now – Free and easy setup.
- Learn the rules – Understand new bidding steps.
- Start networking – Connect with public sector buyers.
Key benefits for suppliers include more standardisation and streamlining of procurement processes – but there are also additional benefits in the Act such as requiring better oversight of procurement decisions and strengthening payment terms. SMEs now have a real chance to compete for government contracts on a level playing field. With fewer barriers and faster payments, this is the best time to explore public sector opportunities.
Read more here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/procurement-act-2023-short-guides/the-procurement-act-2023-a-short-guide-for-suppliers-html