Join framework agreements and approved supplier lists

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

Join a Crown Commercial Service framework

Process for becoming an approved supplier on a CCS framework agreement.

Frameworks are pre-approved supplier lists that allow public bodies to buy without running full tenders. Being on a framework gives you access to call-off contracts.

Find relevant framework opportunities – Search Find a Tender for CCS framework competitions. Check the CCS website for upcoming framework renewals matching your services.
Register on the CCS eSourcing portal – You need a DUNS number (free from Dun and Bradstreet) to register. Provide company details and business size information.
Submit tender response – Complete the selection questionnaire and submit quality and pricing responses as required by the framework competition.
Sign framework agreement if successful – Accept terms and conditions including commission arrangements. There is no joining fee - CCS takes a small commission on sales made through the framework.
List your services – Create detailed service listings that buyers can search. Good descriptions increase your visibility to potential buyers.

Framework types

Closed frameworks: Suppliers can only join during the initial competition. Wait for the next renewal if you miss it.

Open frameworks: Allow new suppliers to join at intervals (at least once in first 3 years). Can last up to 8 years.

Become a CCS supplier

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.

Sell digital services through G-Cloud

How to join the G-Cloud framework and sell digital services to the public sector.

G-Cloud is a framework for cloud hosting, software, and support services. It allows public sector buyers to find and purchase digital services directly from approved suppliers.

Create a Digital Marketplace account – Register at applytosupply.digitalmarketplace.service.gov.uk. Store your company details centrally for use across frameworks.
Monitor for framework openings – G-Cloud iterations open periodically for new applications. Currently on G-Cloud 15. Applications are accepted during open windows.
Apply during the open window – Complete the application including detailed service descriptions, pricing, and capability evidence.
Create service listings – Write clear, searchable service descriptions. Include features, benefits, pricing model, and support arrangements.

G-Cloud is particularly successful for SMEs - over 37% of G-Cloud sales go to small and medium businesses. The framework makes it easier for smaller suppliers to compete.

Digital Marketplace

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%.

Prompt payment requirements for public contracts

Mandatory payment terms for public sector contracts under the Procurement Act 2023.

Maximum payment period: 30 calendar days from valid invoice
Government target for SME invoices: 90% paid within 5 days
Supply chain payment terms: 30 days must flow through to subcontractors

The Procurement Act 2023 implies 30-day payment terms into every public contract and sub-contract, even if not explicitly stated. Suppliers can claim statutory interest if not paid within this period.

Supplier bidding requirements (contracts over £5 million/year)

From October 2025, suppliers must demonstrate they pay their own invoices within an average of 45 days to bid for major government contracts.

Prompt Payment Policy

Framework and marketplace services

Become a CCS framework supplier
Information on joining CCS frameworks
crowncommercial.gov.uk
CCS framework agreements
Search all CCS frameworks
crowncommercial.gov.uk
Digital Marketplace
Apply for G-Cloud and Digital Outcomes
gov.uk
Dynamic Purchasing Systems
Join DPS marketplaces
gov.uk

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Join framework agreements and approved supplier lists

G-Cloud and the Digital Marketplace

Framework types explained

Closed frameworks

Open frameworks

Payment and commission

Compliance Assistant

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G-Cloud and the Digital Marketplace

Framework types explained

Closed frameworks

Open frameworks

Payment and commission

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