Small firms gain free access to public sector contracts

Small businesses are to gain improved access to thousands of public sector contract opportunities under a new scheme launched by the Government.

From 1 May until 31 July 2008 firms will have free access to public sector contracts that are valued under £100,000 for the UK and Northern Ireland. The trial forms part of the Department for Business' Enterprise Strategy which was released in March.

Over 3,000 new contracts are available on www.supply2.gov.uk every month. The three month free trial, which is available to new registrants, will provide access to contracts throughout the UK rather than a nominated local area.

Business Minister Shriti Vadera hopes the new scheme will provide enterprises with greater opportunities and enable buyers to benefit from ‘increased competition.’

Meanwhile John Wright, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, has welcomed the move: ‘We supported the Supply2 initiative from the outset and we hope that this free trial period will encourage more small businesses to try their hand at delivering goods and services to the public sector.’

However, Wright has urged local authorities and Government departments to ‘play their part’ and ensure that contractual opportunities are advertised sufficiently