Procurement
We provide expert guidance on how to find and apply for local authority tenders. Our support covers every stage of the process, from identifying opportunities and becoming tender-ready, to writing strong, competitive bids.
Businesses can access workshops, networking events, and tailored resources designed to help them succeed. Whether you're new to procurement or looking to strengthen your approach, we’re here to make the process clearer, more strategic, and easier to navigate.
Our Story: Bridging the Procurement Gap
This advisory service was created following the Meet the Buyer event held on 10 September 2024. At the event, we identified a significant gap: many businesses, particularly SMEs and those from diverse communities, were unsure where to find tender opportunities and how to prepare a strong, successful bid.
In response to this, we developed a series of three procurement collateral, led by procurement expert Rachel Fletcher. These documents are designed to provide practical, step-by-step guidance on how to navigate public procurement, identify suitable opportunities, and submit compelling bids.
Building on this work, we organised the second edition of the Meet the Buyer event, “How to be a Sheffield Public Sector Supplier and Engagement Event,” held at Hallam Hall on 8 October 2025, which welcomed over 210 local businesses. During the event, we also announced the launch of the Sheffield Business Directory; a new platform designed to help local suppliers be found more easily by Council officers and the wider public.
Our goal is to ensure more Sheffield businesses feel confident, informed, and ready to compete for public sector contracts. By improving access to procurement knowledge and tools, we’re helping level the playing field so that businesses of all sizes and backgrounds can thrive.
This service is being delivered in collaboration with Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, Sheffield City Council- Commercial Services, and the Sheffield Diverse Business Advisory Board.
Procurement Guidance
We are happy to offer these materials to support your businesses on your procurement journey:
1. Management of the Tender Process
2. Tendering Tips Masterclass
3. What You Need to Be Tender Ready
They are designed to give you practical guidance and clear, actionable advice. You can read the articles and watch the accompanying video by clicking on the links below.
Sheffield Business Directory
Unlock new opportunities
Past Events
Looking Ahead
We plan to host the Meet the Buyer event on a regular basis. Each event will bring together businesses from across Sheffield, experts in public procurement, and representatives from commissioning organisations such as Sheffield City Council. These events will provide practical insights into the tendering process, offer valuable networking opportunities, and enable direct engagement with those responsible for awarding contracts. They will also serve as a space to gather feedback from businesses on the local procurement landscape, helping us shape future support and identifying gaps.
Useful Links
Working with public sector:
Information and guidance for suppliers - GOV.UK
How to do business with local government – selling to councils | Local Government Association
How to do business with local government – selling to councils | Local Government Association
The procurement Act 2023
The Procurement Act 2023: A short guide for suppliers (HTML) - GOV.UK & Supplier Registration Service
Apply for Local tender on Yortender
You can browse procurement opportunities across various local authorities in Yorkshire and the Humber by visiting YORtender.
To access live opportunities, submit bids, and ask questions, you’ll need to register your organisation. Registration is free and only takes a few minutes.