Scope
Description
DSIT is seeking a Regional Delivery Partner who will be responsible for ensuring successful on-the-ground delivery of the TechFirst youth programme in the East Midlands. TechFirst is the Government's flagship digital and technology skills programme, created to remove skills as a barrier to growth in the sector. The sector relies on specialist digital and STEM skills, but there is a clear gap between demand and supply. This programme aims to build the sustainability and diversity of the tech talent pipeline, creating the foundations for long-term growth in one of the Government's 8 growth-driving sectors.
The youth strand of TechFirst, TechYouth, aims to reach 1 million students in schools and colleges across the UK with opportunities to develop their digital skills, gain confidence with AI and insight into a range of potential tech careers. Regional delivery partners will support the programme at a local level, delivering skills building activities and career inspiration days for schools and colleges in the area. They will work in partnership with local industry and academia to achieve this.
With the support of Regional Delivery Partners, the TechYouth programme should spark young people's interest in technology and encourage more to pursue digital and computing qualifications at age 14 and 16, both academic and vocational. It will particularly encourage uptake from currently underrepresented groups, including girls and those from socioeconomic disadvantage. These students will form the pipeline of future technology researchers and professionals needed for the sector to achieve its potential growth.
Total value (estimated)
- £1,568,000 excluding VAT
- £1,881,600 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 31 March 2026 to 31 March 2029
- 3 years, 1 day
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 72590000 - Computer-related professional services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Submission
Enquiry deadline
13 January 2026, 10:00am
Tender submission deadline
19 February 2026, 10:00am
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
3 March 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Description | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| technical capability | Quality | 80% | |
| price | price |
Price | 20% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Contracting authority
Department for Science, Innovation & Technology
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PVWZ-3216-PVQL
22 Whitehall
London
SW1A 2EG
United Kingdom
Email: dsit.dttgcbp@dsit.gov.uk
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government