Published: July 17th, 2017
A new programme has been launched to help regional businesses tap into potential contracts for HS2.
In February 2017, HS2 was awarded Royal Assent and Phase One construction of the London to Birmingham route is set to get underway this year, presenting Midlands based manufacturers with an unprecedented
supply chain opportunity.
In response, the West Midlands Manufacturing Club (WMMC), part of the University of Wolverhampton’s Business Solutions Centres, has announced the launch of a free pilot rail tender supplier readiness
programme, ‘Get On Track’.
Part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the pilot scheme aims to help businesses capitalise on the bid and tender opportunities arising from HS2 and other public procurement.
It will give SMEs a clearer understanding of the opportunities available, improving their knowledge of the tendering process; from how to access live tenders through to the documentation and evidence
required and will help transform their tender writing skills to increase success rates.
The pilot programme will consist of three, one-day classroom based workshops, live webinars & dedicated 1-2-1 telephone support and will be delivered by rail tender experts, Thornton & Lowe whose
rail supply chain clients enjoy a success rate in the sector in excess of 75%.
Rebecca Macdonald, Business Development Manager for the WMMC, said "The Midlands region has long been recognised as a hub for manufacturing.
"Located at the heart of the planned HS2 network, the spotlight will inevitably be on manufacturers from the region to take their share of the available spend but we recognise some may not be
at ease with formal tender processes.
"The common misconception is that HS2 is only open to major players. ‘Get On Track’ has been specifically designed to make the opportunity more accessible to Midlands SMEs; equipping them with
the know-how and more importantly the confidence to tap into the wealth of opportunities HS2 can present for them too."
WMMC is looking for 10 SMEs to participate in the pilot on selected dates during August and September, with the full programme expected to cost up to £3000 when it officially launches in November
this year.
Each pilot company will receive two free places, with at least one of those delegates being the employee who will be or is responsible for tendering within the business required to attend all
three sessions on:
• Thursday 24 August 2017
• Thursday 31 August 2017
• Thursday 7 September 2017
To express your interest in participating in the ‘Get On Track’ pilot, email: [email protected]
Or email us direct
