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In the public sector, there is a defined and detailed procurement process that is applied to the purchase of services, goods and work by any government department, public sector body or even central government. It could be local authorities, organisations and hospitals, schools and universities – the public sector in the UK is huge – that need equipment, building and maintenance work or telecommunications. It also includes social care, waste management and even IT development, like the recent Covid app.

When government, local authorities or a public sector organisation makes a purchase of goods, services or work, they have to put out a tender, or contract, and invite suppliers to bid for the right to supply them. However bidding for a public sector tender, or contract, is a complex process. As well as certain criteria to be met, there are a range of rules and regulations that both the public sector and the supplier have to abide by.

If you’re involved in the public sector, understanding how to navigate tenders and contracts is essential for your success. With so many rules, regulations, and laws surrounding the process, it can feel overwhelming, and you may not know where to begin.

So, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand the basics of tenders and tendering for contracts in the public sector, from how to find a tender service , how to apply for them and how to write a winning bid.

With this knowledge, you’ll have the confidence to successfully take on any tender or contract that comes your way.