Scope
Reference
PP-UKIFS-546
Description
1. Baseline Evaluation
Aims
-Set out current data, indicators and contextual evidence.
-Identify what would likely happen without STEP to support later assessment of additionality.
-Test the validity of STEP’s theory of change, assumptions and risks.
-Assess data availability, quality, and feasibility for longterm evaluation.
Scope
-Codevelop the theory of change and logic model.
-Expand the benefits library with metrics, data sources and recommendations for future monetisation.
-Specify data sources, quality plans, counterfactual logic, and longterm lag assumptions.
-Highlight evidence gaps and uncertainties.
2. Impact Evaluation
Aims
-Assess progress towards STEP’s Tranche 1 and T2a objectives.
-Examine early technical advances and initial economic/social effects.
-Forecast potential longerterm impacts where possible.
-Identify what data and systems must be established now to enable robust T2a and future evaluations.
Scope
-Mixedmethods approach including early monetisation and nonmonetised impact assessment.
-Develop methodologies to value fusionspecific benefits (jobs, skills, supply chain, innovation, infrastructure).
-Use baseline counterfactuals to determine additionality.
-Include placebased, distributional analysis and uncertainty testing.
-Produce a set of highimpact case studies.
3. Process Evaluation
Aims
-Assess whether delivery aligns with STEP’s mission, plans and intent.
-Review progress against milestones, delivery structures, partnerships, resources and governance.
-Understand stakeholder engagement, risk management, dependencies and overall programme maturity.
-Identify lessons learned and readiness for transition to future tranches.
Scope
-Review programme documentation and structures.
-Conduct stakeholder interviews across UKIFS, partners and external organisations.
-Use the theory of change to analyse delivery barriers and enablers.
For more information about this opportunity, please visit the Delta eSourcing portal at:
https://www.delta-esourcing.com/tenders/UK-UK-Culham:-Research-services./RCD73B9WCM
To respond to this opportunity, please click here:
Total value (estimated)
- £300,000 excluding VAT
- £300,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 June 2026 to 1 June 2027
- 1 year, 1 day
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73110000 - Research services
- 79311400 - Economic research services
- 79315000 - Social research services
- 79419000 - Evaluation consultancy services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
13 March 2026
Engagement process description
To respond to this PMEN, please complete and submit Appendix 1: Questionnaire via the facility in the Delta portal by 17:00 GMT on 13/03/2026.
Early responses would be appreciated to help inform planning decisions.
If you experience any difficulties with the portal, please contact the portal helpdesk helpdesk@delta-esourcing.com cc operationalprocurement.step@ukifs.uk
Information obtained from responses to Appendix 1: Questionnaire will help UKIFS understand current market capabilities and shape the scope, direction, and design of the future procurement activities.
If you have any questions about this PMEN, please contact UKIFS through the Delta portal. We are keen to engage with suppliers to assist with the PMEN completion if needed, to ensure quality responses enabling us to shape the future requirement and procurement.
Contracting authority
United Kingdom Industrial Fusion Solutions
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PCRM-7973-DCBL
Culham Campus, Culham Campus
Culham
OX14 3DB
United Kingdom
Contact name: Operational Procurement
Region: UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Organisation type: Public authority - central government