Support for SMEs
Small and medium-sized businesses play an important role in Lancashire economy and communities. We welcome businesses of all sizes and want our procurement processes to be clear and easy to understand.
A small business guide to working with LCC
Designed for organisations new to working with LCC, the Small Business Guide provides guidance on finding opportunities, submitting bids, understanding Social Value and exploring collaborative opportunities through the Consortium Exchange.
Practical advice for SMEs
Choose suitable opportunities
Read all documents before deciding to bid
Allow enough time
Use evidence
Ask clarification questions
Make realistic Social Value commitments
Consider collaboration where helpful
Consortium Exchange
Smaller organisations do not always need to bid alone. Where appropriate, suppliers may wish to consider working with other organisations through a consortium arrangement.
LCC's can help organisations identify partners with complementary skills, experience or geographic coverage, enabling stronger bids and increasing access to procurement opportunities.
Consortium exchange (Lancashire County Council) or contact consortiumexchange@lancashire.gov.uk.
Supplier engagement and events
Social Value
Small businesses can contribute meaningful Social Value in ways proportionate to their size.