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.
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).
G-Cloud is structured into logical categories, known as “Lots.” They’re designed to cover different classes of cloud services:
Live since October 2024, G-Cloud 14 introduced important updates that raised the bar for both suppliers and buyers:
To succeed under G-Cloud 14 (and prepare for G-Cloud 15), suppliers should focus on the following:
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 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:
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:
Following its pre-launch, the application windows are expected later this month, and the framework’s Lots are evolving:
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.
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:
Readiness is essential. Suppliers must proactively strengthen their submissions.
Here’s how to get started:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
| 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 |
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.
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.
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.