Join framework agreements and approved supplier lists

How to become an approved supplier on government framework agreements.

UK-wide
Guide summary

You can apply to sell to the government by joining a framework agreement. Frameworks are lists of approved suppliers. If accepted, public sector buyers can buy from you without running a full tender.

  • Apply to join frameworks like Crown Commercial Service or G-Cloud
  • Closed frameworks only accept suppliers during initial competition
  • Open frameworks allow new suppliers to join at intervals
  • G-Cloud is for digital services and helps SMEs compete
  • Pay 0.5-2% commission on sales through the framework
  • Government pays invoices within 30 days by law
  • From October 2025, pay your own invoices within 45 days to bid for large contracts
  • Suppliers must pay subcontractors within 30 days
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UK-wide

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Become a MOD Supplier

How to register on MOD procurement portals, meet security and quality requirements, and bid for defence contracts.

Framework agreements are pre-approved supplier lists that allow public sector buyers to purchase goods and services without running full tenders for each contract. Being on a framework gives you access to call-off contracts from multiple buyers.

The main types of framework include:

  • Crown Commercial Service (CCS) frameworks - for central government and wider public sector
  • G-Cloud Digital Marketplace - for cloud and digital services
  • Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPS) - open frameworks you can join at any time

G-Cloud and the Digital Marketplace

If you provide cloud hosting, software, or IT support services, G-Cloud is a key route to public sector customers.

Framework types explained

Under the Procurement Act 2023, there are two main framework types:

Closed frameworks

Traditional frameworks where you can only join during the initial competition. Once awarded, no new suppliers can join until the framework expires and is re-tendered.

Open frameworks

New under the Procurement Act 2023, these allow new suppliers to join at regular intervals. They can last up to 8 years and must allow applications at least once in the first 3 years and again before expiry. This is better for SMEs who may have missed the initial competition.

Payment and commission

There is no fee to join CCS frameworks. Instead, suppliers pay a small commission (levy) based on sales made through the framework. Rates vary by framework but are typically 0.5-2%.

Framework and marketplace services