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Talking Social Value: The Key to Winning Bids and Tenders

Bid Smart

In today’s landscape of public procurement, social value is no longer just a buzzword—it’s become a critical factor in securing bids and tenders. Councils and public sector bodies are facing ever-increasing budget constraints, and as a result, they are looking beyond the cost and quality of services when selecting suppliers. They want to know, “What is your company doing to support the community?”


In essence, social value is about the positive impact your business can have on society. From boosting local economies and supporting charities to offering apprenticeships and addressing climate change, it’s a broad concept that speaks to how your company is contributing to the greater good.


But how does this play into the bidding process?


Why Social Value Matters in Bids and Tenders


Public sector organizations have a responsibility to deliver value for taxpayers’ money. This means they need more than just a competitive price—they need evidence that the suppliers they work with are committed to making a difference in the communities they serve. Social value offers a way for councils to leverage their spending power to address local needs.


So, what does this look like? When you’re bidding for contracts, councils might ask for examples of how your company can:


• Support local charities or fundraising initiatives.


• Create apprenticeships and opportunities for skills development.


• Promote fair pay and career progression within your workforce.


• Invest in sustainable energy solutions or tackle environmental challenges.


These aren’t just “nice to have” extras; in many cases, social value is a weighted criterion in the evaluation process. Your ability to demonstrate a strong social value proposition could be the deciding factor in whether you win or lose a bid.


Is Your Company Prepared?


The big question is: Does your company place enough focus on its social value proposition?


If not, you might be missing a huge opportunity. In this ever-changing world of public procurement, businesses need to adapt. It’s no longer just about submitting a sharp financial proposal or promising top-quality service—your company’s contribution to societal goals can make all the difference.


What Can You Do?


To stand out in this competitive market, here are a few things you can start thinking about:


1. Evidencing Your Impact: It’s not enough to say you’ll make a difference—you need to show how. Include examples of past initiatives where your company supported local causes or worked to improve sustainability.


2. Building Social Value into Your Budgets: Look for ways to increase your value for money by embedding social value into your operations. This could mean setting aside a portion of your budget to fund apprenticeships, investing in green energy, or supporting local non-profits.


3. Tailoring Your Approach: Different councils have different priorities. Some might focus more on environmental impact, while others may be more concerned with boosting local employment. Make sure your social value proposition aligns with the specific goals of the organization you’re bidding for.


The Bottom Line


Public procurement is evolving, and social value is at the heart of this shift. By placing a greater emphasis on your company’s social value, you’re not just ticking boxes—you’re building a stronger, more appealing bid that resonates with what councils and public sector bodies care about most.


So, ask yourself: Is your company ready to make a difference? And if not, what changes can you make to ensure your bids deliver more than just a competitive price, but real value to the communities you serve?


By weaving social value into your bidding strategy, you’ll not only increase your chances of winning tenders but also contribute to something bigger than business—creating a lasting, positive impact.


Ready to start making that difference?


This personable, yet informative approach will help position your company as a forward-thinking player in the public procurement space, increasing engagement and trust from prospective clients.

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