UKSPF funded programme to support the development of the local social economy- including community businesses, cooperatives and social enterprises.

The procurement process was led by Bedford Borough Council, a public authority within the sub-central government in the United Kingdom, focusing on a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) funded programme aimed at supporting the development of the local social economy, including community businesses, cooperatives, and social enterprises. The procurement stage is complete, and the contract was awarded on 6th May 2025, with the contract period running from 12th May 2025 to 31st March 2026. The procurement method was direct, below the threshold, and without competition.

The industry category for this contract is services, especially focusing on health and social work services, with the service delivery expected across various UK regions, including UKC, UKD, UKE, UKF, UKG, UKH, UKI, UKJ, and UKK. This tender presents considerable opportunities for businesses engaged in the social economy, particularly those specialising in health and social work services, to expand within the UK. As the contract has been awarded to Community Catalysts CIC, an SME, this underscores the potential viability for similar sized enterprises to engage with public sector clients in similar procurement exercises.

Ideal candidates are those that can offer innovative solutions to bolster community businesses, cooperatives, and social enterprises, enhancing local economic development through effectively addressing community needs in a sustainable manner.