The Scottish Government is proactively encouraging third sector organisations (community groups, voluntary organisations, charities, social enterprises, co-operatives and individual volunteers) to get more involved in public sector contracts. However, many still feel daunted by the bidding and tendering process.

In light of these developments, Cyrenians along with AM Bid Services, are jointly hosting a free to attend event: How to Bid and Win! for the Third Sector on Tuesday 28th February 2017 at Grassmarket Community Project, 86 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QA.

AM Bid Services Managing Director, Andrew Morrison will share hints and tips along with key tactical and practical guidance, designed to de-mystify the bidding process and assist third sector organisations in securing a greater share of public sector contracts. The system of ESPD, Tender, Funding, Award and Community Benefit Statements need not be laborious and time-consuming, if you have the know-how to navigate what at times can seem to be a complex procedure.

With over 20 years of collective bidding experience, over £1 billion in contract wins and more than 80% of their bids ranking 1st or 2nd on Quality / Technical Scoring, Bid Experts, AM Bid Services will provide information on how to approach client minimum requirements; optimise the time spent on bids; pose strategic clarification questions; create compelling customer value propositions, and gain maximum, meaningful client feedback.

Also speaking are Ewan Aitken, the Chief Executive at Cyrenians (a charitable organisation who understand the challenges facing the third sector) and Neil Fraser, Senior Category Manager at City of Edinburgh Council. Neil will provide a buyer’s perspective and explain what the public sector evaluator is looking for when marking bids.

There will also be a panel discussion where those in attendance can ask questions and address the key obstacles faced by their organisations.

Speaking of the upcoming event, Ewan Aitken, Chief Executive at Cyrenians said “We are delighted to be partnering AM Bid Services at this event.  It’s another step in Cyrenians commitment to promoting the possibilities which come from partnership work, especially where perceived barriers between business and charities can be broken down to help bring the strengths of both to new opportunities.”

Andrew Morrison, Managing Director at AM Bid Services added: “I moved into the world of bidding after a career in social housing, so I understand many of the issues which third sector providers are facing. I am looking forward to passing on the insights I have gained from the 12 years I have now spent in bidding including working for some of the UK’s largest firms and bidding to a wide range of public and private sector organisations.  This event will be a great opportunity for the third sector to get some advice which will help give their bid submissions a winning edge.  I am also delighted that we are being joined by a senior procurement manager from City of Edinburgh Council who will provide insights from the buyer end of the tender process.”

Don’t delay. Secure your place for this innovative event here:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/how-to-bid-and-win-for-the-third-sector-tickets-30355149068