Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme Services

Through Business Wales, the Welsh Government offers business support services to inspire entrepreneurs and SMEs to help start, sustain, and grow businesses in Wales. Business Wales is delivered through a blend of external suppliers, grant awards (third party providers) and ‘in-house’ teams within Welsh Government. The Business Wales service encompasses a range of products and services offering information, advice, and support, online, via phone, virtually or in person in both English and Welsh.

Certain elements of the Business Wales service are currently delivered by external suppliers, which is expected to run until 2029.

This Prior Information Notice relates to the Welsh Government’s intention to procure suitably skilled supplier(s) to deliver the Accelerated Growth Programme Services element of the Business Wales services from November 2023 to end of March 2029 (the "Service").

The anticipated aggregate value of the Service for the contract period is GBP 15.7m net (2023-2029). Aligned to the wider Welsh Government budget position, the budget for this activity is secured for financial years 2023/24 and 2024/25 only. Therefore, the proposed duration of the Service contract is expected to be structured for a period of up to 5 years and 5 months; an initial period of 17 months, with an option to extend, on an annual basis, for a further 4 years at the sole discretion of the Welsh Government, and subject always to budget approval.

There is an additional contract value of up to a further GBP 15.7m net for additional activities; GBP 31.4m net total value. These activities will be aligned to emerging Welsh Government priorities that may occur. There is no obligation placed on the Contracting Authority to utilise the additional spend value (GBP 15.7m net) and the additional services may or may not occur.

The overarching aims of Business Wales are:

1. To build confidence and inspire individuals, entrepreneurs and micro / small medium enterprises (SME) businesses to reach their full potential. To work with key stakeholders to develop a cohesive ecosystem that is visible, simple and connected to ensure Wales is a great place to start and grow a business in the foundation or growth economies.

2. To address a key gap by creating the conditions for businesses to start, sustain and grow through the missing middle in inclusive and sustainable ways.

3. To support the productivity, resilience, growth, decarbonising, and sustainability of micro and SMEs. To secure their long-term future ownership within Wales, cementing their continued contribution to the Welsh economy.