Help for Scottish Businesses Bidding for Work in Public Sector

A new website will make it easier for Scottish companies to bid for work in the public sector, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil announced this week.

The online Supplier Journey will guide businesses through the process of applying for contracts, making the system more streamlined and easier to understand.

The new website was developed with the help of Scottish companies which have already gone through the process.

In Glasgow to launch the website at the National Procurement Conference, Mr Neil said: "It's really important that suppliers have a voice in public procurement, and we have worked with Scottish businesses to design the Supplier Journey. Their feedback will be key to keeping it fresh.

"The website will guide firms large and small through each step in the process - setting out what they can expect from buyers, and what is expected of them.

"This brings together and simplifies a lot of often complicated guidance, making it easier to understand. It will be particularly useful for small businesses, which are the engine driving Scotland's economy.

"We have already put in place a number of measures to support SMEs, such as the introduction of quick quote - a simplified online way of buying lower-value goods.

"As a result, SMEs make up 74 per cent of all firms winning contracts advertised on Public Contracts Scotland. Today's development will make it easier still for SMEs to bid for work."

Find out more about the Supplier Journey.