Government is open for business

Government is open for business and wants to work with more small businesses across the UK.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the lifeblood of the economy. By 2020, the government plans to spend one third of its goods and services budget with SMEs, either directly or through the supply chain.

Becoming a government supplier is a great way to make a difference to your business. Companies report an increase in their turnover, higher profits and an expansion of their workforce.

A simpler application process

It’s becoming easier to become a government supplier. The government is listening to SMEs and making the application process quicker and easier.

Suppliers will be paid in 30 days

Payment and cashflow can be a problem for SMEs, so the government guarantees to pay all valid invoices in 30 days or less.

Representing your interests

Small Business Crown Representative Emma Jones has been appointed to act as a bridge between central government and small businesses to ensure the target of spending £1 in every £3 with small business is met by 2020.

Resolve a problem

If you have a problem with a government contract payment or are concerned with the procurement process, you can let the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) know via the Mystery Shopper service and they will investigate it for you. You can remain anonymous.

Find contracts

You can:

• use Contracts Finder to search for contracts worth over £10,000
• search for opportunities to sell goods or services to the public sector through the Digital Marketplace
• look for opportunities to tender on the Procurement pipeline

Get help applying for government contracts

Find out how to bid for a government contract:

• read the guide on how to become a supplier through CCS
• hear how to bid for and win contracts by signing up to webinars
• explore case studies to find out how other companies have won government business
• follow CCS on Twitter and connect with CCS on LinkedIn

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