Work with us

Partnering with AWE

AWE is an executive non-departmental public body. We deliver an extensive programme of activity that supports the defence and security of the United Kingdom. Each year, we procure a wide variety of goods, works and services to ensure the resilience, security, and efficiency of our operations. We are actively looking for new suppliers who can support us in our critical mission.

Our suppliers are integral to our business. We want to build long-term, trusted partnerships with a diverse range of organisations who, through collaboration, can bring innovation and fresh thinking to complex challenges.

We are committed to transparent, fair, and sustainable procurement, ensuring opportunities are available to suppliers of all sizes, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and specialist providers. 

We want to make it easy for new suppliers to work with us, including:

• organisations that have not traditionally worked with AWE, the MOD or in the defence sector before
• SMEs – SMEs: A guide to working with government provides advice for small and medium-sized enterprises on how to bid for and win government contracts

How to become a supplier

By default, we buy all goods and services through open competition, as set out in the UK public procurement regulations.

Due to the specialised nature and security implications of some of AWE’s procurement activities, it is sometimes necessary for us to rely on relevant security-related exemptions to regulations. Where those security constraints allow, we publish and award our contracts in line with the relevant public procurement regulations and best practice guidance.

Frameworks

AWE uses Crown Commercial Service (CCS) frameworks. You can find details on how to become a supplier at CCS (Crown Commercial Services) Frameworks. AWE does not operate a ‘preferred’ supplier list.

Assessment process

In a typical competition:

• AWE advertises opportunities on Find a Tender Service. (For procurements subject to exemptions, suppliers may be approached directly).
• suppliers complete a pre-qualification questionnaire. The pre-qualification stage may be skipped for certain requirements.
• if suppliers meet the pre-qualification selection criteria, they are invited to tender.
• tenders are evaluated using pre-agreed, objective assessment criteria. From June 2021, social value is taken into account in evaluations.
• a supplier or multiple suppliers are selected based on the assessment.
• the contract is awarded to the successful bidder. Feedback is available on request.

AWE expects suppliers to:

• adhere to all applicable laws (including UK data protection legislation)
• maintain the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in their business dealings
• comply with the Government Commercial Function codes of conduct
• comply with AWE supplier assurance requirements
• refer to additional guidance available for defence and security contracts

AWE reserves the right to exclude a supplier who has been convicted of any of the offences or misconduct listed in the MOD’s Statement Relating to Good Standing.

Find opportunities

• Find out more about our projects
• Meet AWE Commercial teams