Workshop to help Stockport SMEs navigate public sector procurement

Ahead of legislative changes to public sector procurement, Stockport businesses are being invited to a fully funded workshop to help them bid for work with public bodies.

The workshop, organised by GM Business Growth Hub, in collaboration with STAR Procurement, the shared procurement service used by Stockport and a number of other councils and public bodies in the North-west, and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), aims to help SMEs take advantage of opportunities provided under the Procurement Act 2023, which takes affect at the end of February.

On the 24 February 2025, the rules that shape how public bodies buy goods and services is changing. The Procurement Act 2023 aims to create a simpler, more flexible and effective public procurement ecosystem.

To help businesses make the most of the changes, the workshop on Wednesday, 19 February 2025 · 9:30am – 1pm, will see attendees earn how to create a consistent strategic approach to bidding, structure and write compelling proposals, and understand how buyers evaluate submissions. They will also explore the significance of environmental and social value impacts in public sector tenders.

More importantly, participants will receive the latest updates on local procurement initiatives, providing a valuable opportunity to stay abreast of contracting opportunities in the area. The workshop will also cover identifying lucrative bidding opportunities and improving the chances of securing contracts, especially for businesses in the construction sector and supply chain. 

Yvonne Sampson, Head of Enterprise, GM Business Growth Hub, said:

“For many businesses, the intricacies of formal bids and tenders can appear daunting, from complex processes to resource limitations and stiff competition from larger firms. Our workshop is designed to demystify the bidding process and equip attendees with the strategies needed for success.” 

For further information and to book a place to attend, visit the GM Business Growth Hub website here.