If you’re a small business looking to grow by selling your cloud services to the public sector, now’s a great time to get started. The UK government has officially announced the launch of G-Cloud 15, the latest version of its long-running cloud services framework.
So, what exactly is G-Cloud 15, and how can your business get involved? Let’s break it down.
What Is G-Cloud?
G-Cloud (the “G” stands for government) was created to help public sector organisations move their IT and digital services into the cloud. It’s essentially a framework that makes it easier and faster for government bodies to buy things like:
- Cloud hosting
- Cloud-based software
- Cloud support and related services
These services are all listed on the government’s Digital Marketplace, an online shop where public sector buyers can browse approved suppliers and purchase what they need.
How G-Cloud 15 Works
If you want your business to appear on that “shop shelf,” you’ll need to apply through the G-Cloud 15 tender.
Once your application is approved, your services will be listed on the Digital Marketplace for up to four years, meaning public sector organisations can find and buy from you when they need cloud services.
This opportunity isn’t just for large tech companies. Small businesses, voluntary organisations, and community enterprises are all welcome to apply.
The deadline to apply is 3pm on 30th January 2026, so you’ll definitely want to get started early. The tender pack is quite detailed, and there’s a fair bit of reading before you even begin responding.
A Quick Refresher: How Frameworks Work
Think of a framework as a shortlist of pre-approved suppliers. Once you’re on it, you’re allowed to bid for work that comes up under that framework.
Being on the list doesn’t guarantee you’ll win any contracts, but it does mean you can be invited to take part in “mini competitions” for projects that fit your services. It’s a bit like being on the guest list for a private event: you still have to make your case to be chosen, but at least you’re in the door.
Supplier Fees
If you win work through G-Cloud, you’ll need to pay a 0.75% fee to the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), which is the government’s central procurement team.
It’s basically an admin or management fee for running the framework.
Example:
If you invoice £10,000 (before VAT), you’ll pay £75 to CCS.
G-Cloud 15 Lots (Service Categories)
When you apply, you’ll need to choose which “Lot” (or category) best fits your services.
G-Cloud 15 Lots includes:
- Lot 1a: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) & Platform as a Service (PaaS)
- Lot 1b: IaaS & PaaS (Above OFFICIAL security classification)
- Lot 2a: Infrastructure Software as a Service (I-SaaS)
- Lot 2b: Software as a Service (SaaS)
- Lot 3: Cloud Support Services (Additional Services)
Each Lot has slightly different requirements, so it’s worth reading through the descriptions carefully before deciding which one applies to you.
How to Apply for G-Cloud 15
The G-Cloud 15 tender is published on the Find a Tender website. Here’s how to get started:
- Go to the Find a Tender site and search for “G-Cloud 15.”
- Look for the listing published on 24 October 2025, which is the official announcement with full details.
- Scroll down to the Submission Address and Special Instructions section and click the link. This will take you to the Digital Marketplace.
- Before you can apply, you’ll need to register as a supplier on the Central Digital Platform, which is the Find a Tender site (learn how to do this here).
- Once registered, return to the G-Cloud page and select “Become a Supplier.”
- You’ll then be prompted to create a Digital Marketplace supplier account.
If you don’t already have a DUNS number, you’ll need to get one first (check out how, here). It’s free, but it can take a few days to arrive. Once that’s sorted, you can complete your registration and start your G-Cloud application.
Inside the Application
Here’s a quick rundown of what the G-Cloud 15 application involves:
Confirm Your Company Details
You’ll need to connect your supplier profile on the Central Digital Platform with your G-Cloud account using a share code.
Make Your Supplier Declaration
A series of short questions, many with yes/no answers, about your company’s legal status, ethics, and social value commitments. This proves you’re a legitimate and responsible supplier.
Add, Edit, and Complete Services
This is where you’ll list each service you want to sell under G-Cloud.
You’ll choose your Lot, then complete around 65 questions per service, though many have sub-questions, so it’s more than it looks.
Financial Viability Risk Assessment
This checks your business’s financial health to ensure you can deliver a contract without risk.
Technical Ability Certificate (TAC)
Essentially a reference. You’ll need to provide details of a previous contract and get your client to sign off.
Quality Award Questions
Here, you’ll demonstrate how your services meet technical, quality, and security standards such as ISO and Cyber Essentials.
Pricing
This section asks for your pricing model and structure. Fill in everything carefully, as transparency is key.
Finally, don’t forget to check the clarification questions regularly. Other suppliers will be asking for guidance, and the answers published may affect how you complete your application.
Final Thoughts
G-Cloud 15 is a brilliant opportunity for businesses offering cloud services to get in front of public sector buyers. While it doesn’t guarantee instant work, being approved gives you credibility and a real shot at winning future contracts.
If you’re planning to apply, start now, and if you’d like help navigating the tender process, book a call with me at thetendercoach.com. I can walk you through the process and help you prepare a strong, compliant application.
Good luck, and happy bidding!
