Islington Supplier Readiness Programme

Heart of the City, in partnership with MSDUK and Islington Council, is delivering the Islington Supplier Readiness Programme.

This programme is designed to help businesses understand how procurement really works, build confidence in bidding for contracts and strengthen their credibility as responsible, contract-ready suppliers.

Through practical learning and tailored support, participants will develop the skills and insight needed to engage with new markets and take the next step in their growth journey.

The hybrid programme brings together face-to-face workshops, online peer learning and clinics. Participants will explore public sector procurement in Islington, social value and responsible business practices, and core commercial skills including pitching and bid writing.

Each business will be supported to develop a clear, tailored growth plan, with guidance from expert practitioners and opportunities to learn alongside peers and large public and private sector partners.

The programme includes:

• Three interactive workshops covering: introduction to procurement, social value and introduction to successful bidding.
• Two online peer-to-peer sessions, focused on: developing a practical business growth plan and embedding social value into your business.
• One private clinic with an expert during the programme.
• Two follow-up private clinics later in the year to support continued progress after completion.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for fully funded support through the Islington Supplier Readiness programme, your business must:

• Be based in Islington.
• Be registered in the UK.
• Meet the micro and small enterprise criteria (see here).
• Have a minimum of two employees (including part-time or freelancer collaborators).