Supported Businesses DPS
Introduction
The Supported Businesses Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is managed by Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges (APUC) and operates within the human resources category. This DPS is designed to facilitate the procurement of services from supported businesses, offering an inclusive and flexible route for universities and associated institutions to engage with suppliers who meet specific criteria. The DPS will remain open until 9th June 2025, allowing suppliers to join at any time during its duration, provided they meet the necessary requirements.
Context & Use Case
The Supported Businesses DPS aims to support universities and colleges by providing a streamlined procurement process for engaging with supported businesses. These businesses typically employ a significant proportion of disabled or disadvantaged individuals, aligning with broader social value objectives and contributing to responsible procurement practices. By utilising this DPS, contracting authorities can ensure they are not only meeting their operational needs but also promoting inclusivity and diversity within their supply chains. This system is particularly useful for educational institutions looking to fulfil their commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.
Scope of Services
While the specific lots and services covered by the Supported Businesses DPS can be further explored through APUC's resources, the DPS generally encompasses a range of human resources-related services. Suppliers within this DPS may offer services such as recruitment, training and development, temporary staffing solutions, and administrative support. The diversity of services available ensures that universities and colleges can find suitable solutions for their unique operational needs, all while supporting businesses with a social mission.
Who Can Apply
The Supported Businesses DPS is open to supported businesses that are interested in providing human resources services to universities and colleges. These businesses typically have a workforce comprised largely of disabled or disadvantaged individuals. The DPS remains open throughout its duration, allowing new suppliers to apply at any point and ensuring a dynamic and competitive marketplace. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for emerging supported businesses that may not have been established at the DPS's inception but have since developed the capacity to deliver high-quality services.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers, particularly within the education sector, benefit from the Supported Businesses DPS through enhanced compliance, efficiency, and market competition. The DPS simplifies the procurement process, offering a compliant route to market that adheres to necessary regulations and standards. Additionally, the ongoing openness of the DPS supports speed to market, enabling buyers to quickly source and engage with suppliers as needs arise. Furthermore, by drawing from a pool of socially responsible suppliers, contracting authorities can ensure that their procurement activities align with broader organisational values and objectives.
Lots
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Next Steps
Suppliers interested in joining the Supported Businesses DPS should carefully review the specific requirements and criteria outlined by APUC. It is advisable to contact APUC directly for detailed information on the application process and to discuss the potential fit of their services within the DPS framework. This proactive approach will ensure that suppliers are well-prepared to meet the expectations of contracting authorities and can effectively contribute to the objectives of the DPS.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable supports suppliers interested in the Supported Businesses DPS by offering tools and resources for discovering relevant opportunities and preparing for successful applications. By providing insights into procurement pipelines and facilitating a comprehensive understanding of DPS requirements, Biddable helps suppliers navigate the complexities of public sector procurement with greater confidence and clarity.