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Did you know Europe is the UK's Security Sweet Spot? A staggering £5.6 billion in security exports went to Europe in 2023—50% of all UK security exports! Even more interesting, cybersecurity accounts for nearly double the physical security exports. Ready to dive deeper into this market?

💡 Good to Know

• Explore 2025's investment landscape for GovTech startups with investor Paul Forrest at Glasgow's Advanced Research Centre.

• Master the art of winning public sector bids at this essential workshop with Castle Point Council's procurement experts.

• Connect with public and private sector buyers at this Armagh networking event for social enterprises.

🔍 Today’s Focus:

• GovTech Investment: Paul Forrest discusses 2025 opportunities for startups.

• Daily Spend Watch: £1.27B awarded; infrastructure & digital transformation lead.

• Opportunity Pick: £32M MOD Defence contract

• News: AI & women’s health push, battlefield stealth tech, neurodiversity employment panel.

Let’s dive into the details👇

DAILY SPEND WATCH

📊 Public Sector Spending Analysis: Contracts Finder Report January 30, 2025

Market Analysis

Total awarded: £1.27B across 245 contracts.

The £1.27B in awards reflects significant public sector investment in critical infrastructure and digital capabilities. The dominance of large-scale infrastructure projects (32% of total value) alongside substantial telecommunications investments (25%) suggests a coordinated approach to modernizing public services. The presence of multiple IT contracts indicates continued emphasis on digital transformation across government departments.

OPPORTUNITY PICKS

Defence Digital Test and Management Service (TaMS) Contract 

Opportunity Overview

• Contract Value: £32,000,000

• Closing Date: 13 March 2025

• Start Date: 5 January 2026

• Security Clearance Required: Facility Security Clearance (FSC)

💡 Winning Strategies: Security & Trust

The ability to demonstrate both your facility clearance and strong experience in managing classified information can set you apart. In a contract where security is paramount, proving you have the right infrastructure and track record for handling sensitive data at the highest levels will significantly strengthen your bid. Focus your proposal on how your team's expertise not only meets but exceeds the MOD's high-security standards.

NEWS 

💙 AI & Women's Health: The Future is Now

AI is reshaping healthcare - but is it working for everyone? Minister Baroness Merron warns of gender bias in AI-driven healthcare at the Responsible AI: Women and Healthcare Conference in London. With 60% of women feeling unheard in healthcare, the UK is pushing for inclusive AI. From faster diagnoses to better treatments, AI holds huge promise, but only if it’s built with women in mind. Let’s ensure Healthtech benefits everyone!

🔹 Revolutionizing Battlefield Stealth 

PhoenixC4i’s DarkSky Clip-On Antenna, funded by DASA, cuts Radio Frequency footprint by 80%, reducing the risk of enemy detection. 75+ units have been deployed by the British Army, enhancing covert comms. It is cost-effective, easy to retrofit, and a game-changer for electronic warfare. The future of tactical security is here.

🤝Boosting Employment for Neurodiverse People: New Expert Panel Launched

A new expert panel has been launched to improve job prospects for neurodiverse people. Led by Professor Amanda Kirby, the panel will advise the government on fostering more inclusive workplaces. Currently, only 31% of autistic individuals are employed, compared to 54.7% of all disabled people. This initiative is part of the Plan for Change, aimed at boosting employment and economic growth. The panel will develop actionable policies for both employers and the government.

TECHNOLOGY

🔍 KIVA: AI-powered SEO agent for faster keyword research & analysis

📱 Stella: WhatsApp-based AI assistant for emails and scheduling 

🖥️ LM Studio: Run AI language models locally on your computer

TIP OF THE DAY

Promote Sustainable Practices

Include Environmental Criteria: Assess suppliers based on their sustainability practices, such as waste management and carbon footprint.

Encourage Green Innovations: Request proposals that highlight sustainable solutions from suppliers.

Recognize Sustainable Achievements: Acknowledge and reward suppliers who demonstrate significant environmental contributions.

Quick Question!

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