The UK Government’s G-Cloud framework has transformed how cloud services are bought and sold across the public sector. It streamlines procurement, reduces red tape, and creates opportunities for both established providers and agile SMEs to deliver secure, scalable digital solutions.
From G-Cloud 13 through to the upcoming G-Cloud 15, the framework continues to evolve. With each iteration, suppliers must adapt to new requirements, refined service categories, and updates introduced under the Procurement Act 2023.
At Ascertia, we understand the importance of digital trust. In this guide, we’ll explain what G-Cloud is, how it has changed over time, including updates introduced in G-Cloud 14, and what to expect from G-Cloud 15.
What is G-Cloud?
G-Cloud is a UK Government procurement initiative launched in 2012 to simplify public sector access to cloud services, such as IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, and support, through pre-agreed frameworks rather than issuing a new tender for each opportunity.
Often described as a fast-track “app store” for government procurement, G-Cloud operates via the Digital Marketplace (formerly known as CloudStore).
Core principles:
- Off-the-shelf solutions with built-in transparency and compliance
- Faster procurement and reduced administrative burden
- Broad SME participation, over 90% of suppliers are SMEs
- Over £19 billion procured through the framework since its launch
Service categories (Lots)
G-Cloud is structured into logical categories, known as “Lots.” They’re designed to cover different classes of cloud services:
- Lot 1: Cloud Hosting (IaaS/PaaS) - Virtual servers, storage, container platforms
- Lot 2: Cloud Software (SaaS) - Off-the-shelf subscription apps (CRM, productivity tools, etc.)
- Lot 3: Cloud Support – Migration services, training, managed service, cybersecurity support
- Lot 4 (G-Cloud 14): Complex support services, awarded via mini-competitions
Why G-Cloud works
- Speed – No lengthy tenders, buyers select from a ready-made catalogue
- Compliance – Suppliers must satisfy minimum security (i.e., CyberEssentials+, ISO 27001), commercial, and T&Cs requirements upfront.
- Visibility – The Digital Marketplace connects suppliers with over 30,000 public sector buyers
- Accessibility – Low entry barriers encourage innovation and enable SME participation
G-Cloud 14: Key updates
Live since October 2024, G-Cloud 14 introduced important updates that raised the bar for both suppliers and buyers:
- Lot 4 introduced for bespoke services (via mini-competition only)
- Stronger documentation requirements: Service definitions, pricing matrices, terms, and ESG statements
- Higher compliance standards: Tighter pass/fail criteria and updated requirements
How suppliers can stand out
To succeed under G-Cloud 14 (and prepare for G-Cloud 15), suppliers should focus on the following:
- Competitive pricing transparencyNo vague ranges or estimates. Suppliers must upload clear, fixed pricing with volume-based discounts and breakpoints explicitly stated.
- Clear service definitionsThese must explain capabilities, SLAs, onboarding/offboarding, security and support processes.
- Robust, protection-ready Terms & ConditionsOnce accepted, T&Cs are locked throughout the duration of the framework. Only one version is allowed, so careful diligence is crucial.
- Security and compliance checksIncreasing emphasis on CyberEssentials+, ISO 27001, financial health and viability, carbon reduction reporting, modern slavery statements, and more.
- Marketing and positioningSuppliers that use case studies, SME positioning, platform analytics, keywords and targeted early-market engagement tend to perform better.
Call-offs and competition
Buyers can either direct-award simple services or go to further competition for complex procurement. Contracts can span up to 36 months, offering both a low-friction route to entry and the potential for sustained engagement.
G-Cloud 15: What’s changing?
G-Cloud 15 pre-launched in July 2025, aligning more closely with the Procurement Act 2023. This latest iteration brings a modernised approach to public procurement. With restructured lots, enhanced oversight, and new scoring methods, it’s set to redefine expectations. Here’s what’s coming:
Regulatory environment
G-Cloud 15 is the first framework formalised under the Procurement Act 2023, which came into effect in October 2024. It replaces EU-derived procurement rules with a single, transparent, SME-friendly framework underpinned by stronger governance. Key changes include:
- Greater oversight over pipeline and contract performance.
- Increased SME participation, with fewer financial barriers.
- New debarment powers for underperformance – suppliers must be vigilant.
New Lot structure
Following its pre-launch, the application windows are expected later this month, and the framework’s Lots are evolving:
- Lot 1a: IaaS/PaaS - general
- Lot 1b: IaaS/PaaS - specialising in defence and security
- Lot 2a: SaaS – infrastructure and service management
- Lot 2b: SaaS – all other software
- Lot 3: Cloud Support and MSP services
Timeline and scale
- Pre-launch supplier events began in June 2025 and run through July 2025. The ITT is expected in October 2025, with the framework launch expected in March 2026 for 18 months, possibly with a four‑year total span.
- Framework value is anticipated at approximately £5.76 billion (including VAT), down £2 billion from G‑Cloud 14’s peak, but still substantial.
What G-Cloud 15 means for suppliers
New requirements mean new responsibilities for suppliers. From tougher compliance checks to structured evaluations and longer framework terms, here’s what suppliers need to know to stay eligible and competitive in G-Cloud 15.
- Stricter entry controlsExpect more rigorous demand checks including financial viability, carbon reduction, modern slavery and enhanced security.
- Structured evaluation criteriaQuality, cost, and social value will now be actively scored, not just submitted for reference.
- Advanced Lot flexibilityIt supports direct-award or further competition for up to 36 months.
- Extended framework life and re-openingsG-Cloud 15 will remain open for four years, with two reopening periods for new suppliers and updated services.
- Higher competition, higher rewardMore scrutiny means suppliers must differentiate clearly on trust, security, and social value to stand out.
G-Cloud 15 opportunities
Despite tighter controls, G-Cloud 15 offers massive opportunities, especially for SMEs and service providers prepared to meet compliance and lead with value. Here’s where the most significant gains will be:
- SMEs can benefit from proportionate compliance and social-value scoring.
- Innovation-focused suppliers can shine through compliance, agility, and visible impact.
- Buyers gain from a broader, more transparent, and flexible digital catalogue.
How to prepare for G-Cloud 15
Readiness is essential. Suppliers must proactively strengthen their submissions.
Here’s how to get started:
- Update compliance and documentation
- Obtain CyberEssentials+ and ISO 27001 certification
- Publish carbon reduction and modern slavery statements
- Review and polish service definitions, terms, and pricing documents
- Ensure transparency around pricing, volume discounts and onboarding/offboarding
- Reassess your positioning
- Select the right Lot for your service
- Emphasise outcomes – cost savings, efficiency, sustainability, etc.
- Use case studies and demonstrate social value (i.e., SME success, carbon or diversity impact)
- Plan your submission strategy
- Track the July 2025 opening
- Prepare for scoring: Scorecards on quality, cost, and social impact
- If you’re already listed on G-Cloud 14, prepare updates ahead of re-opening periods.
- Engage the market early
- Attend supplier and buyer webinars and events
- Build relationships through early-market engagement
- Leverage the Digital Marketplace analytics to benchmark against similar services.
Why you should care and act now
G-Cloud 15 represents more than just another framework refresh. It’s a significant opportunity to futureproof your public sector sales strategy.
With rising demand for cloud services, stronger buyer confidence in digital procurement, and structural improvements under the new Procurement Act, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
Here’s why it matters, and why acting now puts you ahead of the curve:
Massive public sector demand
Despite budget constraints across departments, digital transformation remains a strategic priority for the UK Government. G-Cloud 15 is projected to facilitate up to £5.7 billion in public sector spend, covering everything from secure hosting platforms and SaaS solutions to specialised support services.
From NHS trusts and local councils to central government departments and blue light services, the Digital Marketplace remains a trusted route to market.
Procurement Act 2023 – A smarter framework
The Digital Marketplace is more than a service directory. It’s a high-volume procurement platform where thousands of public sector buyers source, compare and shortlist offerings based on real-world procurement criteria.
Being listed on G-Cloud gives suppliers immediate, national exposure, while strong service listings signal trust, compliance and delivery readiness from the outset.
Earned trust through framework status
Public sector buyers often prefer working with G-Cloud suppliers because of the built-in due diligence the framework provides. Cybersecurity posture, financial stability, commercial terms, and compliance checks are vetted during the application process, removing a significant burden from procurement teams.
Simply being listed tells the market your service is credible, compliant, and ready for delivery.
Long-term, flexible opportunity
With a four-year lifespan and at least two planned re-openings, G-Cloud 15 offers multiple chances to refine or update your services. That means if you don’t get everything perfect at launch, there are planned opportunities to adapt.
Additionally, the framework supports contract terms of up to 36 months with buyers, offering not only entry but also continuity. It’s not a one-off sales event. This is a long game of relationship building, service evolution, and repeatable success.
G-Cloud 15 readiness checklist
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Security and compliance | CyberEssentials+, ISO 27001, and Lot-specific certifications |
| Commercial readiness | Clear pricing, terms, financial viability, sustainability and social statements |
| Service definition | Features, SLAs, onboarding/offboarding, measurable outcomes |
| Lot fit | Choose Lot 1a/b, 2a/b, or 3 depending on offering |
| Marketing assets | Case studies, evidence of ROI, SME credentials, social value indicators |
| Market engagement | Attend supplier sessions, join buyer forums |
| Application strategy | Prepare for July open, submission review, and plan for updates and re‑opening cycles |
The defining opportunity for digital suppliers
G-Cloud continues to be the UK public sector’s preferred route for sourcing trusted, scalable cloud solutions, and G-Cloud 15 takes that further.
With support from the Procurement Act 2023, the framework introduces greater structure, social accountability, and flexibility than ever before, unlocking new growth for suppliers who are ready.
Key dates at a glance:
- July 2025 – Supplier applications expected to open
- October 2025 – ITT issued; submission period begins
- March 2026 – Framework launches with 18-month active term
- 2026–2029 – G-Cloud 15 open for four years with two re-opening windows
For suppliers, particularly agile, innovation-led SMEs, G-Cloud 15 represents an open door to long-term visibility, strategic partnerships, and sustainable growth in the public sector.
Ready to lead with trust?
At Ascertia, we support public sector trust with secure, standards-based digital solutions, used by governments and enterprises globally.
If you’re preparing your G-Cloud 15 submission and need expert guidance on digital trust, compliance, or positioning your service, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to start your G-Cloud 15 journey with confidence.
