Hey there👋

Did you know that just 0.4% of UK businesses employ over HALF the workforce? The latest data reveals that large firms dominate the employment sector, creating huge opportunities for partnerships and the need to find your niche. How are you adapting to this shift? 🤔

💡 Good to Know

👥 Join cybersecurity expert Chris Hughes for an essential webinar on modern vulnerability management, ASPM, and supply chain security - crucial insights for security leaders in today's AI-driven landscape.

Here’s an overview of recent developments:

• £643M in public sector contracts—discover which sectors are booming and how you can tap into them.

• Opportunities for SMEs—find out how smaller businesses can compete and thrive in today’s market.

• AI-powered procurement tips—learn how AI can streamline your procurement processes and give you a competitive edge.

• Cybersecurity insights—don’t miss expert advice on securing your supply chain in an AI-driven world.

Let’s dive into the details👇

DAILY SPEND WATCH

📊 Public Sector Spending Analysis: Contracts Finder Report January, 1st - 03rd 2025

Early January 2025 shows robust public sector spending with £643M in awarded contracts. Construction and healthcare sectors dominate, reflecting ongoing infrastructure and health system investments. Notable trend toward digital transformation projects across all sectors. Regional distribution shows strong London/SE focus with growing Northern England representation.

OPPORTUNITY PICKS

Integrated Public Health Nursing Service for 0-19 (Up to 25 with SEND) in Warwickshire

Opportunity Overview

• Buyer: Warwickshire County Council

• Value: £48.7M

• Framework Scope: Integrated Public Health Nursing Service for 0-19 years (up to 25 with SEND)

• Timeline: Starts October 2025, ends September 2030 (with potential 3+2-year extensions)

💡 One Strategy That Could Set You Apart

If you were to focus on one piece of advice, it would be to highlight your capability to engage and lead diverse partnerships, especially in areas with high community involvement and complex service delivery requirements.

This will be a key differentiator, as Warwickshire County Council is looking for a provider that can seamlessly integrate with existing services and contribute to a unified, collaborative health system. Demonstrating a track record of successful multi-stakeholder partnerships will instill confidence in your ability to meet the varied needs of the local community.

NEWS

🚀 Greener Skies Ahead!

 Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Mandate
UK flights now require 2% SAF, rising to 10% by 2030. This shift cuts emissions by 70% and accelerates clean energy goals.

🌿 What is SAF?
Made from waste (think cooking oil!), it reduces fossil fuel dependence and promotes greener travel.

 Economic Boost

• Supports thousands of jobs and fuels green growth.

 Your Opportunity
Public sector pros—partner with SAF projects to build a cleaner future!

🌍 Horizon Europe: Unlocking £80 Billion for UK Innovation

 UK Pushes for Horizon Participation
2025 is pivotal for tapping Horizon Europe’s £80 billion R&D fund.

 Opportunities for Innovators
Grants for healthcare, AI, and green energy projects—plus £700 travel awards for EU networking events.

 Success Stories
Recycleye’s £385,000 grant boosted AI recycling tech, cutting costs.

🔗 Get Started
Visit Innovate UK or the EU portal for funding calls and applications.

🕒 UK Builds Quantum Atomic Clock for Defence

 Groundbreaking Technology
The UK's Defence Science and Technology Lab (Dstl) has developed a cutting-edge quantum atomic clock, offering unmatched accuracy and GPS-free navigation.

 Enhanced Military Capabilities
This clock boosts precision in surveillance, weapons targeting, and secure communications, improving national security.

💰 £28M Investment
Part of a £28M investment in quantum tech, this development strengthens the UK's defence strategy.

TECHNOLOGY

📧 Cora: AI transforms emails into concise stories, automates replies

🧠 Flashback: AI creates study quizzes and flashcards from any content

💬 Neuradocs: AI answers community questions from your knowledge base

TIP OF THE DAY

📊 Want to leverage AI for smarter procurement?

1. Predictive Analytics: Use AI to forecast demand and optimize inventory—stay ahead of potential shortages!

2. Supplier Performance Monitoring: Implement AI tools to assess supplier performance based on historical data and trends.

3. Automate Routine Tasks: Free up your team’s time by automating repetitive procurement processes—efficiency is key!

Quick Question!

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