Introduction

Crown Commercial Services’ (CCS) G-Cloud Framework has been renewed once again. The Invitation to Tender (ITT) for G-Cloud 14 went live on the 19th February 2024 which means that G-Cloud 13, the thirteenth iteration of the framework, is winding down.

With the push towards a ‘cloud first’ public sector, G-Cloud has fast become CCS’s most sought-after framework. For many technology suppliers, G-Cloud is seen as the most prosperous framework to be involved in. It’s easy to understand why - to date, a massive £16.74bn has been spent across the thirteen iterations, and spending continues to rise year-on-year.

Submissions for G-Cloud 14 close on 7th May so we've prepared this guide on G-Cloud’s spending data to help you prepare your strategy for the year ahead.

Simply waiting won't bring contracts to your doorstep which is why we have analysed the most active quarters for G-Cloud spending to help you plan your go-to-market (GTM) strategy. This knowledge is crucial for timing your bids effectively and enhancing your chances of securing contracts.

Anticipate government spending with G-Cloud spend data

We found that Q4 (January-March) of the government's financial year has historically represented the busiest time for G-Cloud spending. This is explained by the fact that public sector buyers are using up final budgets before they reset in April.

The lowest spend occurs in Q2 (July-September). The summer period is when the public sector slows down due to school holidays and parliamentary recess, resulting in reduced procurement activity through frameworks like G-Cloud.

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You should use this spend data to help plan your approach. In slow periods (Q2), you should be proactive and use this time to build relationships with buyers and identify early buying signals to put you in the strongest position to win contracts in Q4, when opportunities are more likely to come to market.

Conclusion

G-Cloud is just the beginning of your journey when it comes to public sector success. In fact, the most valuable work happens after you have been listed on the framework. The most successful G-Cloud suppliers are those who proactively seek opportunities and leverage data and market intelligence to decide which to pursue and where relationships can be built, rather than simply waiting to be awarded opportunities through the marketplace.

To learn more about how to navigate G-Cloud 14 to find future opportunities, download our full white paper below.

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