How to get on G-Cloud
G-Cloud is one of the most small-business-friendly routes into UK public sector technology work. A large share of its suppliers are small and medium-sized firms, and buyers across central government, the NHS, councils and other public bodies use it.
What G-Cloud covers
G-Cloud is split into lots, which have broadly covered:
- Cloud hosting: infrastructure and platform services.
- Cloud software: software as a service applications.
- Cloud support: services that help buyers plan, set up, migrate to and run cloud services.
Check the current version's lot structure when it opens, as it can change between versions.
How to apply
Crown Commercial Service runs a new version of G-Cloud roughly every year or two, and new suppliers can only join when one opens for applications. To apply you will usually need to:
- Register on the platform Crown Commercial Service uses for the application, and watch its announcements for the opening date.
- Complete the supplier declaration, covering exclusion grounds, finances and insurance.
- Create each service listing: a service description, pricing document, terms and conditions, and answers to set questions about features, security and data location.
- Submit before the deadline. Late applications cannot be accepted, and you will not be able to join until the next version.
How buyers award G-Cloud contracts
Buyers search the catalogue with keywords and filters, export a shortlist, compare services against their needs, and award directly to the service that best meets them. There is no bid to write. Your listing is your bid. That means:
- Use the words buyers search for in your service name and description.
- Answer every feature and security question fully; filters drop services with gaps.
- Publish clear pricing, with units such as per user per month.
Getting work once you are on
- Tell your existing public sector contacts you are on G-Cloud. It makes buying from you much easier.
- Watch for buyers' requirements published on the opportunities pages and in market engagement notices.
- Keep your listings current; you can usually update them during the framework's life.
Common questions
How often does G-Cloud open to new suppliers?
A new version of G-Cloud has usually opened roughly every 12 to 18 months. Crown Commercial Service announces each one in advance; suppliers already on the framework also need to reapply to stay on.
Can a non-UK company get on G-Cloud?
Generally yes. Overseas suppliers have been able to apply, though they must meet the framework's requirements and buyers may have data location rules.
Do I need Cyber Essentials for G-Cloud?
Requirements depend on the version and on what buyers ask for at call-off. Many UK central government contracts require Cyber Essentials, so most G-Cloud suppliers hold it.
Related
Supplier lists, frameworks and panels explained · Selling IT to government in the UK · How to win public cloud contracts