The event, hosted by FuturePlus, brought together practical advice and real-world examples that SMEs can act on today. Here are some of our key takeaways:
Social Value Isn’t Optional — It’s Weighted
Government contracts now include a minimum 10% weighting for social value, and in many cases, that figure is higher. For SMEs, this means that overlooking social value isn’t just a missed opportunity — it can be a deal-breaker.
Understanding and clearly articulating your contribution to local communities, sustainability, or inclusion can significantly improve your chances of success in a competitive tender process.
Partner With Existing Initiatives
One of the most practical recommendations was to avoid duplication and instead collaborate with organisations already doing great work. Aligning with local charities and national foundations can help you amplify your impact and demonstrate alignment with government priorities.
Tailor Your Approach for Each Buyer
Social value priorities vary across government departments and contracting bodies. Some may emphasise job creation and skills development, while others focus on environmental outcomes or wellbeing.
Before submitting a bid, take the time to understand what matters most to the buyer, then reflect those priorities in your response. A generic approach won’t cut it — successful bids show a clear link between your activity and their goals.
"Understanding and clearly articulating your contribution to local communities, sustainability, or inclusion can significantly improve your chances of success in a competitive tender process."
Use Tools and Expertise to Save Time
Building a strong social value narrative can be resource-intensive, especially for smaller teams. The good news is that AI tools are making it easier to draft responses quickly and effectively. Platforms like AutogenAI are helping bidders streamline their bid writing processes without sacrificing quality.
If internal resources are stretched, it’s also worth considering external support. Experienced consultants can help shape a clear, credible social value story that resonates with evaluators and improves your score.
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