Hey there👋

Innovation is calling! The NDA is fueling the future with £1.5M for remote monitoring, fresh partnerships, and tech demo opportunities. But here’s the real question:

Are you ready to position your expertise where innovation meets public impact?

💡 Here’s what’s inside today’s newsletter:

• Is London still dominating, or are new regional hubs on the rise?

• The £80M hydrogen supply tender that’s reshaping sustainability.

• How Dstl is saving billions and supercharging naval capabilities.

🎧 No time to read? I get it—life’s busy. That’s why I’ve added an audio version of the newsletter just for you. Click play, and let me keep you updated while you tackle your day!

DAILY SPEND WATCH

🔍 Key Insights:

🤔 Are UK public contracts becoming too London-centric? Here's a snapshot from Monday, 2nd of December:

🌍 Regional Distribution:

• London & Southeast lead with 45% of contracts

• West Midlands emerging as second hub

• Northern regions showing surprising growth

💼 Contract Types:

• Framework agreements up 32%

• Direct awards declining

• Competitive tenders strongest in construction

🎯 Despite the "leveling up" agenda, London still dominates major contracts, but regional hubs are gaining ground.

OPPORTUNITY PICKS

Fueling the Future: Securing Low Carbon Hydrogen Supply for Lower Thames Crossing

Quick Overview

• Buyer: National Highways

• Value: £80M (range: £37.5M–£80M + VAT)

• Procedure: Competitive Dialogue

• Contract Duration: 8 years (+ optional 2 years)

• Closing Date: 10 January 2025, 12 PM

💡 One Strategy That Could Set You Apart

Focus on building a tailored value proposition that connects National Highways’ sustainability goals with your unique expertise in low-carbon logistics.

By presenting a scalable, cost-effective, and innovative hydrogen supply chain solution, you not only align with this contract's objectives but also position yourself as a leader in decarbonization for future government opportunities.

NEWS

🚢Transforming Naval Power with Fewer Resources

DSTL helped the Royal Navy do more with less: increasing frigate availability, cutting costs, and boosting exports.

Key Wins:
1️⃣ Saved taxpayers £10B by proving 5 ships can replace 11.
2️⃣ Type 31 frigates cost 75% less than predecessors.
3️⃣ Delivery slashed from 20 years to 7.

🔗 Discover how DSTL drives smarter defence solutions.

💼Boosting Small Businesses with Smarter Support

New government measures aim to supercharge SMEs:

1️⃣ Fair Payment Code: Tackles late payments, saving SMEs £22K yearly.
2️⃣ Disability Finance Code: Unlocks £230B potential by supporting disabled entrepreneurs.
3️⃣ Backed by top banks, ensuring better access to cash and growth opportunities.

🔗 Explore how these changes empower 5.5M UK small businesses.

🌍Powering Change: UK’s Renewable Energy Investments in the Philippines

1️⃣ Wind Farms Expansion:

• Four new wind farms in Luzon and Visayas with 380 MW capacity.

• Backed by a $150M investment via Actis.

2️⃣ Largest Solar Project:

• Terra Solar Project in Nueva Ecija, supported by $600M in UK equity.

• Set to provide affordable, sustainable energy to millions.

3️⃣ UK-Philippines Partnership:

• $12M UK investment in Citicore via IPO.

• A shared commitment to greener, sustainable progress.

These projects highlight the UK’s dedication to supporting global renewable energy transitions and fostering international collaboration.

TECHNOLOGY

🌟 Vela: AI-first venture capital revolutionizing startup investments

🎤 ACE Studio: Transform musical notes into AI singing voices

📱 Voiser AI: Your AI assistant for audio transcription

TIP OF THE DAY

🤔 Struggling with compliance issues?

1. Stay Informed on Regulations: Regularly update your knowledge on public procurement laws—don’t get caught off guard!

2. Training Programs: Invest in training for your team on compliance best practices—it pays off in the long run!

3. Conduct Audits: Regularly review processes for adherence to regulations; it’s better to catch issues early!

Quick Question!

We’d love to know how today’s Focus resonated with you! Your feedback helps us make each issue even better. 😊