For many small businesses, the idea of bidding for public sector contracts can feel overwhelming.
You might think, “We wouldn’t know where to start,” “We don’t have the time,” or even “We’re too small to win.” These are valid concerns but don’t let that hold you back!
Public sector contracts offer huge potential for businesses of all sizes, and with the right guidance, you can tap into this opportunity.
We’re hosting a series of workshops from BIZphit, experts in supporting small and medium sized businesses to produce winning tenders, in collaboration with Southend on Sea City Council, to help businesses like yours develop the skills and confidence to compete and win.
“We wouldn’t know where to start.”
It’s true that the tendering process has many moving parts, but it’s far from impossible. The key is knowing how to break it down. BIZphit’s workshops demystify the process, giving you practical tools and tips to get started.
From identifying the right opportunities to submitting a strong application, these sessions will leave you with a clear plan of action.
BIZphit also encourages businesses to follow a structured approach to stay organised and focused.
Key steps include researching your market, tailoring your responses to meet buyer requirements, and preparing case studies that highlight your successes. With these strategies, you can approach tenders with clarity and purpose.
“We wouldn’t have the time.”
Time is always a challenge for small businesses, but tendering doesn’t have to be a drain on your resources.
By learning to streamline the process, you’ll be able to focus your efforts on opportunities that truly align with your strengths.
For example, BIZphit’s workshops teach you how to develop a library of reusable content to make future bids quicker and easier. It’s about working smarter, not harder, and creating systems that let you pursue contracts without disrupting your day-to-day operations.
Plus, the benefits of winning a public sector contract can be transformative.
Reliable, long-term contracts provide stability, allowing you to plan for growth rather than just survive.
“We’re too small to win tenders.”
Think you’re too small to compete? Think again. Public sector buyers actively seek out smaller suppliers for their flexibility, innovation, and ability to offer a personal touch.
One of the key lessons from BIZphit’s workshops is understanding how to position your business as the perfect fit.
This means addressing eligibility criteria upfront, being transparent about your capabilities, and focusing on what makes you stand out.
By emphasising your unique selling points – whether it’s your local knowledge, bespoke service, or faster response times – you can win over buyers who value what you bring to the table.
Key takeaways
- Start simple: Focus on understanding the basics of tendering, and use checklists to keep your approach organized.
- Reuse and optimise: Develop templates and a library of documents to save time on future bids.
- Highlight your strengths: Show buyers why your small size is an advantage, not a limitation.
Take the first step
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from pursuing public sector opportunities. With the right support, you can overcome the hurdles of time, complexity, and self-doubt.
Join us at Launchpad Southend for a guide to government contracts, led by BIZphit. As well as a series of workshops, there will also be a 1-2-1 drop-in clinic for more bespoke support for specific issues – a golden opportunity to get help with those burning questions.
Whether you’re completely new to tendering or looking to refine your approach, you’ll leave equipped with the tools and strategies to succeed.
Your business may be small, but your ambitions don’t have to be. Public sector contracts are within your reach, with the sign up to the workshops to find out how to win them:
- 25th February: Introduction to Public Sector Tendering
- 25th March: Are you Ready to Win Public Sector Tenders?
- 29th April: How to Write a Winning Business Proposal
- 20th May: Clinic
Visit our Events page for more details and to book your place.
