Facilitation of Greater Manchester Race Equality Panel

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority facilitated the procurement process for the "Facilitation of Greater Manchester Race Equality Panel," with the aim to tackle structural prejudice and discrimination through the Race Equality Panel. The primary focus was on enhancing equity and fairness within the various sectors across Greater Manchester’s ten local authority areas, including Bolton, Bury, and Manchester, among others. This open competition process was governed by the UK Public General Acts and was conducted below the procurement threshold.

Key milestones in the procurement included market engagement and contract planning activities in May 2025, leading to the contract start date on 1st August 2025, with the possibility of two 12-month extensions based on performance and available funding. The procurement procedure has already concluded, with the award made to Inclusivitii Limited, based in Oxford, under the service category of "Other community, social and personal services." The contract is valued at £168,186, contributing to Greater Manchester’s strategic ambitions for inclusivity.

This tender presents significant opportunities, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations with expertise in delivering social and community services and a commitment to advancing equality and diversity. Companies specialising in providing facilitation services, community engagement, or equality consultancy are ideally positioned to compete in such contracts. This contract underlines the importance of having strong community ties and experience with diverse demographic groups, as these qualities are vital in executing the required duties effectively.

Businesses that are equipped to deliver on such strategic and socially impactful projects can leverage this procurement to expand their portfolio, establish long-term contractual relationships, and solidify their presence in the social services industry within the UK regions.