How government procurement frameworks work – and how to access them

Many public contracts sit behind structured purchasing routes that buyers use to find and appoint suppliers.

These routes are known as procurement frameworks, and they shape a large part of how government organisations buy goods and services.

For small businesses, these frameworks can feel distant or unclear, yet they influence where opportunities appear and how suppliers are chosen.

A framework isn't a single job or a fixed contract. It's a method that lets buyers work with approved suppliers over several years.

Once you're part of a framework, you can be invited to compete for work or, in some cases, receive direct requests from buyers who need a specific service. This creates a steady stream of opportunities that are not always visible on public tender portals.

The third in our Ready to Supply series, this blog explains how frameworks operate, what public buyers look for and what steps small firms can take to prepare for them.

• Why a simple anti-bribery policy could help you win more public contracts

• Modern slavery statements: What small suppliers need to know

1. What is a government procurement framework?

A procurement framework is a structured agreement that sets out which suppliers a public body can work with over a set period of time.

It acts as a pre-approved list. Buyers use it to find businesses that meet certain standards and can deliver the goods or services they need.

They don't have to run a full tender every time because the main checks have already taken place during the framework application process.

This saves time and helps buyers work with suppliers that have already demonstrated their capability.

Frameworks cover many areas of public spending, from construction to digital services and food supply to professional support. Some are national, while others cover regions or specific sectors.

They're run by organisations such as Crown Commercial Service, NHS procurement units, local authorities or specialist bodies responsible for managing large categories of spend.

You can read the Crown Commercial Service's guidance on framework agreements and follow its announcements to keep up to date on tendering news.

2. How frameworks operate in practice

A framework usually runs for several years. During this time, buyers can approach the suppliers listed on it whenever a need arises.

The framework sets out:

• the terms of the working relationship

• the approach to pricing

• expectations for the service

This is so both sides can start with a shared understanding of how the work will be managed.

Once you're accepted as a supplier

If you're accepted on to a framework, you may be invited to take part in short competitions known as mini competitions (see section 7).

Buyers use them when they need a specific service or product and want to compare offers from suppliers already on the framework.

The process is lighter than a full tender but still gives buyers the detail they require to make a fair choice.

Some frameworks also allow direct requests for work if the rules permit it (see section 7).

Frameworks are often divided into groups called lots. These groups may be based on region, type of service or scale of delivery.

Your business can apply for one or several lots, depending on your capacity. This helps buyers find the right supplier for each type of requirement.

Joining a framework doesn't mean work will start immediately. It means you're now part of the agreed route that buyers use. When opportunities arise within that route, your business can be considered.

3. Why you should give frameworks your attention

Frameworks play a central role in public procurement.

Many contracts for which small businesses would be well suited never appear on open tender sites because buyers must use a framework instead.

Understanding how these routes work can help you access work that would otherwise be out of reach.

A place on a framework can lead to a steady flow of opportunities over several years. Buyers may return to suppliers who respond well, communicate clearly and deliver reliably. This can help your small business build long-term relationships with public sector teams.

Frameworks also help buyers find suppliers with specialist skills or local knowledge – strengths common among small firms. Once your business is listed on a framework, it becomes easier for buyers to see that you have that capability.

Finding opportunities

Enterprise Nation's Supply Connect report highlighted that many small businesses want to work with the government but don't know where to look for opportunities.

Frameworks are often part of the answer. They bring structure to the purchasing process and give suppliers like you a clear route to finding them.

Some frameworks encourage innovation and diverse supply chains. This creates space for smaller businesses that offer new ideas or more flexible ways of working. In these cases, the framework acts as a supportive entry point rather than a barrier.

If you're getting ready to enter public procurement, understanding frameworks is a key step. Knowing how they function helps you see where your services fit and what you can prepare in advance.

4. Why small firms often find frameworks confusing

Many small businesses hear about frameworks only when they begin exploring public procurement. At that point, the language, format and expectations can feel unclear.

The concept is simple once understood, but the way frameworks are presented can make them seem harder than they are.

• Jargon and terminology: Some frameworks use terminology that feels technical or unfamiliar. You might read it and struggle to understand what the buyer needs or how you should respond. Even experienced business owners can find the documents slow to navigate without some explanation.

• Perception that they exclude smaller firms: Certain frameworks are shaped around high-volume supply or large delivery teams. This can give the impression that smaller businesses have little chance of being included. In reality, some frameworks do welcome smaller suppliers, but this may not be obvious from the initial documents.

• Criteria: The need to have particular levels of insurance, undergo financial checks or hold specific certifications can also create uncertainty. These checks are part of public sector due diligence, but the thresholds can appear high for new or micro businesses. Without context, it can be hard to know which requirements are flexible and which ones are fixed.

• Layers of supply: Frameworks can also involve layers of supply. A Tier 1 supplier may manage a large contract and then subcontract parts of the work to smaller businesses. These routes aren't always visible, and it can take time for a business to understand where these pathways sit.

• Lack of advertising: Opportunities within frameworks aren't always advertised openly. Work may be offered through mini competitions or direct requests. As a result, you may not see any activity unless you're already part of the framework.

VIDEO: Selling to government: A practical introduction to tendering

Want to win public sector contracts but you're not sure where to start?

In this introductory session, we demystify the tendering process, draw on "real life" examples of small businesses and provide lots of practical tips:

5. What public buyers look for when selecting framework suppliers

When buyers set up a framework, they need to be confident that each supplier on the list can deliver the work safely and consistently.

The checks they carry out are designed to confirm this. Preparing for these checks helps you present your business in a way that aligns with public sector expectations.

It also makes the application process more manageable and increases your readiness for future frameworks.

Proof of your ability

Buyers will look for evidence that you can deliver the service you describe. This usually includes:

• examples of work you've done in the past

• references

• information about the skills within your team

They want to see that you understand your field and that you can meet the standards set out in the framework.

Proof that you're responsible

They also review the policies that support responsible business practice. This often includes:

• anti-bribery

• modern slavery

• data protection

• quality assurance

• health and safety

These documents help buyers understand how you manage risk and how you run your business.

Proof that you're financially stable

Financial checks are part of the process. Buyers will assess whether your business is stable enough to take on the level of work offered within the framework.

The threshold varies depending on the type of framework. Some require limited financial information, while others involve more detailed checks.

Proof that you can handle sensitive information

Buyers will commonly ask that suppliers that handle personal information or sensitive data to have Cyber Essentials certification.

These standards make sure businesses are taking steps to protect themselves against possible cyber attacks.

There are two levels of Cyber Essentials certification:

1. Cyber Essentials: A combination of self-assessment and independent audit.

2. Cyber Essentials Plus: Includes more rigorous, independent technical testing.

You can find out more about what's required and the costs involved on IASME's website.

Proof that you're reliable

When reviewing framework applications, buyers also look for reliability. They want to see that you respond on time, follow instructions and communicate clearly. These habits build confidence before any work begins.

Certifications

You might need to hold certain certification, depending on the sector.

For example, construction, digital services or facilities management frameworks may ask for recognised standards that show your technical competence. These requirements are usually set out clearly in the application documents.

Pricing

Buyers pay close attention to pricing. They want clear and transparent information on costs.

This helps them compare suppliers and understand the value those companies are offering. A simple pricing structure, supported by clear assumptions, is often easier for buyers to assess.

6. How SMEs can prepare to join a framework

Preparation makes framework applications easier to handle. It also helps you understand which opportunities are suitable for your business.

Small firms often have the skills buyers want, and a clear set of readiness steps can help those strengths come through during the application process.

Understand which frameworks exist in your sector

Start by exploring the main places where frameworks are listed. Contracts Finder, Find a Tender and Crown Commercial Service publish details of new and upcoming frameworks. Local authorities and NHS bodies also publish opportunities on their own portals.

Supply Connect can help surface relevant frameworks by bringing opportunities into one place and guiding you towards those that match your sector or region.

Review the entry requirements

Each framework sets out the criteria you must meet before you can apply. These details give you a clear picture of what buyers expect.

Look closely at the criteria around turnover, insurance and level of experience. Some frameworks have flexible thresholds, while others are fixed.

By understanding these early on, you'll avoid investing time in applications that simply aren't suitable.

Build a set of readiness documents

Framework applications often request a bundle of documents. Preparing these in advance saves time and reduces stress when deadlines approach.

Here are some of the common documents buyers ask for:

• Anti-bribery and corruption policy

• Modern slavery statement

• Data protection policy

• Health and safety information

• Case studies or examples of past work

• CVs or profiles of key staff

• Basic financial information

These items show buyers how your business operates and how you manage risk. Once you've prepared them, you can reuse them in future applications.

Form partnerships to strengthen your capability

Some frameworks require broader coverage than one small supplier can provide. In these cases, joining a consortium can help. Working with trusted partners allows each business to bring its strengths to the table.

Supply Connect supports collaboration by helping suppliers find potential partners and understand how joint bids can be structured.

Keep your supplier profile up to date

A clear and current supplier profile helps buyers assess whether you're suitable. It also supports early-stage checks when frameworks need to pre-qualify applicants.

Include details on:

• the services you provide

• your experience

• your team

• the regions you cover

Update your profile whenever your capability grows or you update your documents.

7. What to expect once you're on a framework

Joining a framework gives your business access to a defined route for public sector work.

It doesn't guarantee you any contracts, but it places you where buyers look when they need suppliers that meet a framework's standards.

Mini competitions

Once you're listed on a framework, you may receive invitations to take part in mini competitions. These are short requests for proposals that relate to specific pieces of work.

The buyer will outline the need, ask a set of focused questions and request pricing. The process is usually more streamlined than a full tender.

Direct requests

Some frameworks also allow buyers to request work directly from a supplier. Direct requests are common when:

• the work is straightforward, or

• the buyer sees a clear match between what they need and what you're capable of providing

In a direct request, a buyer can ask you to deliver a piece of work without running a competition, provided the requirement fits the framework's scope.

Direct requests vary between frameworks, and the rules are set out in the framework documentation.

Providing updates

Framework managers may ask you for updates during the life of the framework. This could include:

• refreshed insurance certificates (for example, when your cover has renewed)

• updates to internal policies

• changes to your team or capability

Keeping your documents organised makes these requests easy to handle.

It's common for suppliers to see periods of activity followed by quieter phases. Frameworks run for several years, and demand can fluctuate.

Consistent performance, clear communication and good relationships with buyers can help strengthen your position over time.

Reviewing data

Some frameworks publish data on the work awarded.

Reviewing this information can help you understand where opportunities tend to arise and how the framework is being used. This insight can guide your focus and help you position your offers effectively.

8. How frameworks relate to tiers and subcontracting

Some frameworks involve layered supply chains.

In these cases, a "Tier 1 supplier" will hold the main contract and manages how it's delivered overall.

They may bring in smaller businesses to handle specific parts of the work. These smaller businesses are often known as "Tier 2 suppliers" or "Tier 3 suppliers".

This structure is common in areas such as construction, facilities management and large digital projects.

It allows the buyer to work with an experienced lead contractor while still drawing on the skills of specialist firms.

For small businesses, subcontracting can be a valuable way to access public sector opportunities.

It provides a route into complex projects where a single business can't deliver everything that's needed.

Access to subcontracting

In our Supply Connect report, we found that many small businesses struggle to understand how to access these subcontracting routes.

The information isn't always visible, and Tier 1 suppliers may not have a clear process for bringing in new partners.

Building relationships can help. Keeping your supplier profile updated, attending "meet the buyer" events and connecting with Tier 1 contractors can give you more of a profile.

When a lead contractor needs specialist support, they often look first at suppliers that have already shown interest and capability.

Partnerships and consortiums

Some frameworks encourage partnerships and consortiums. These arrangements allow several small businesses to come together to meet a broader scope of work.

Each partner contributes their area of strength, and the group applies for the framework as a single bidder.

Conclusion

Frameworks shape a large part of public procurement and play a key role in how government buyers choose suppliers.

Understanding how they work helps you see where opportunities sit and how to prepare for them. You'll know how to decide which frameworks to pursue and what documents to have ready.

For many small firms, the first steps involve learning the structure, gathering essential policies and identifying which frameworks align with their services.

Having done this important work, you'll be in a stronger position to start applying for work and understand how your business can meet expectations throughout the public sector.

People also read

• From local to national: Teaming up with strategic suppliers

• Winning work with government: How to break into public procurement

• B2B sales: How to sell to corporate businesses

Download your free guide to win contracts

Public sector procurement can seem out of reach for small businesses. But with this guide from Supply Connect, it's more accessible than ever. Get the free guide now