The Strategic Procurement Team is keen to support local and small businesses and where possible create tender opportunities, which supports the local economy.  Currently over 30% of all Council business is with local suppliers.

The procurement team will be running a programme of workshops during 2009/10 specifically targeted at Small and Medium Enterprises (SME's) on the following dates:-

- 21st October 2009 - Town Hall, Oxford
- 8th December 2009 - Town Hall, Oxford
- 5th February 2010 - Town Hall, Oxford
- 10th March 2010 - Town Hall, Oxford
- 21st April 2010 - Town Hall, Oxford

The workshops are designed to give SME's further insight into how the Council's procurement processes work and the type of standard information we expect from suppliers through a quotation or tender process.

The events are designed to be as practical and interactive as possible.

To book a place on this workshop, please contact us on 01865 252778 or Email us. If you are allocated a place you will receive a contribution email.

Meet the Buyer

We have hosted three successful Meet the Buyer events at the Town Hall in recent years. Over 300 local businesses attended the 2009 event and were able to talk to 24 buyers from different public sector organisations.

The 2010 event will be held on 29th April 2010. Further details of the event and how to book your place will be published in January 2010.

Testimonials

Jason Smith, Commercial Director, Cotswold Structural Services - December 2009

“Understanding and securing business from Local Authority departments is often a lengthy and difficult process. The proactive approach Oxford City Council is taking to Sub Contractor working relationships is a refreshing sign and key in supporting the growth of local businesses.”

Jim Mills, Commercial Director, Legal Escrow & Arbitration Services Limited - January 2010
 
"Your newsletter is a valuable source of information and shows an authority that is willing to have an open channel of communication and that it is working in the suppliers interests as well as its own. Communication is essential in developing relationships and good relationships can only encourage good business. I look forward to your next newsletter as whilst it may not all be relevant to my particular business, it keeps me informed of progress, opportunities and activity. More councils should certainly follow your lead."