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Did you know the UK's digital identity sector is growing at a staggering rate of 11.7% annually? With a market value of £2.05 billion, this sector is a hotbed for innovation. The GVA per employee is 42% higher than the UK average, making it a goldmine for tech professionals.

💡 Good to Know

XRPL Meetup in London invites blockchain developers, innovators, and academics to UCL School of Management for an evening of startup pitches and networking that will shape the future of DeFi and tokenization on the XRP Ledger.

Here’s an overview of recent developments:

• Daily Spend Watch: Key insights from the Contracts Finder Report on public sector spending.

• Opportunity Picks: £250M Total Facilities Management Framework – How to win big.

• News: The UK-Swiss deal for smoother professional qualifications & tackling £45B wasted on outdated tech.

• Tech: Explore AI-powered tools to improve operations and performance.

Let’s dive into the details👇

DAILY SPEND WATCH

📊 Public Sector Spending Analysis: Contracts Finder Report January 13-17, 2025

Total Contracts Awarded: 1,063

Total Value: £8.02 billion

Key sectors driving spending were IT & Digital Services (56% of contracts), Healthcare (significant growth with £892M single-day allocation), and Construction (steady presence with £614M major allocation).

A notable shift in regional distribution with a strong performance from Yorkshire (14 contracts) and Midlands (28% share), challenging London's traditional 28% market share.

Small contracts under £100k represented 52% of volume, while major frameworks included a £739.2M workforce solutions award and £210M in IT services. The period showed increased investment in healthcare technology integration, sustainable infrastructure, and digital transformation initiatives across the public sector.

OPPORTUNITY PICKS

Total Facilities Management Framework – A £250M Game-Changer

Opportunity Overview

• Contract Value: £250,000,000 over 3–4 years.

• Scope: Comprehensive Facilities Management, from security to catering.

• Structure: 3 Lots based on contract value tiers.

• Start Date: May 1, 2025.

• SME/VCSE Suitability: Yes, it encourages diverse supplier engagement.

• Expression of Interest Deadline: January 31, 2025.

💡 Winning Strategies

1. Engage Early: Register interest now to establish rapport and gather insights.

2. Map Capabilities to Lots: Assess internal strengths to target the right lot(s).

3. Develop Value-Added Proposals: Incorporate unique offerings like green energy initiatives or tech-driven efficiency.

4. Build Partnerships: Collaborate with SMEs/VCSEs to strengthen your bid package.

NEWS 

🇬🇧 New UK-Swiss Deal Boosts Professionals

What’s New

• 200+ professions (lawyers, vets, ski instructors) now have easier qualification recognition in Switzerland.

• Supports £46B trade ties, with £8B from professional services.

• Bespoke 3-year route for legal professionals.

Why It Matters

Simplifies global growth for UK firms, strengthening trade and economies.

💸 £45B Lost to Outdated Tech

Old systems waste £45B annually, slowing services and frustrating users.

The Solution

AI tools Connect and Scout:

• Fast-track energy projects.

• Streamline public services.

The Goal

Modernize tech, save billions, and boost efficiency.

🌊 15 Minutes to Save Your Life

The MCA is updating rules to require registration of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) free of charge. This will ensure faster rescue during emergencies.

Take Action!

• Register your PLB online (it’s quick!).

• Keep info updated for accuracy.

• Share feedback by 21 Feb 2025 at [email protected].

TECHNOLOGY

🦕 PDF Dino: AI-powered PDF data extraction and conversion tool

💻 GetWebsite.Report: AI website auditor for SEO and conversion optimization

🎭 Humva: Create custom spokesperson avatars for your journey

TIP OF THE DAY

🔍 Enhancing Supply Chain Transparency through AI

Transparency and Traceability: Improve supply chain visibility with AI technologies, ensuring accountability among suppliers.

Verification of Claims: Utilize blockchain technology to verify sustainability claims made by suppliers, fostering trust among stakeholders.

Product Provenance Tracking: Enhance the ability to track product origins and confirm adherence to ethical practices throughout the supply chain.

Quick Question!

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