Agenda

• Visibility of opportunities for SMEs via a regional portal
• Inclusive processes and lotting of contracts that enable smaller providers to bid
• Impact of procurement spend on the local economy
• Our work with major suppliers to maximise the value of their respend with local suppliers

This presentation will examine the barriers that each sector faces when procuring goods and services and how these can be overcome to create productive relationships between the public and private sectors.

Social Media Consultant Chi-chi Ekweozor will look at how SMEs can strengthen bids by using engagement on free social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to research market demand for their goods and services.

With consumers spending the lion's share of their online time on these popular social networks, SMEs are now in the position of being able to service demand requests generated through interactions with new and existing customers on these networks.

The key to tapping into this goldmine of real-time customer information is investing time in developing relationships with potential customers on these platforms.

Chi-chi will share some tips on how to begin and will provide case studies of UK companies which have achieved real business results through this strategic and targeted marketing approach.

• Why Manchester CC decided to provide ‘Sustainability and Social Procurement’
• How they set up the Young People into Construction initiative in conjunction with other public, voluntary and private sector partners
• How they grew the Young People into Construction initiative
• How they addressed hard-to-reach groups, including areas of social deprivation
• The results

There is a wide range of government support available to businesses. This section gives you a snapshot of the types of financial support available to SMEs and how to access them.

Innovation is the application of new ideas to your business. By being innovative, you can improve the chances of your business surviving and growing. As the public sector budgets reduce, purchasers will be looking for innovative suppliers to meet their needs.

This session will provide a first-hand account of how an SME achieves certification and the benefits it provides them with as well as explaining the certifications available for SMEs and how accreditation adds value to the supply chain.