Scope
Reference
MR25_009
Description
The University of Kent is procuring an enterprise-grade Generative AI platform to support teaching, learning, research, accessibility, and operational efficiency. The platform must provide a secure, institutionally governed AI environment; support student learning and staff productivity; reduce institutional risk; and enable scalable, compliant AI use across the university.
Total value (estimated)
- £2,000,000 excluding VAT
- £2,400,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 April 2026 to 30 March 2028
- Possible extension to 30 March 2031
- 4 years, 11 months, 30 days
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 48000000 - Software package and information systems
Contract locations
- UKC - North East (England)
- UKD - North West (England)
- UKE - Yorkshire and the Humber
- UKF - East Midlands (England)
- UKG - West Midlands (England)
- UKH - East of England
- UKI - London
- UKJ - South East (England)
- UKK - South West (England)
Engagement
Engagement deadline
17 December 2025
The engagement was carried out before this notice was published.
Engagement process description
The University Of Kent has held a number of meetings and discussions in respect to exploring the current market conditions, technological position and advancements, potential future developments in the AI market, potential interested suppliers, potential contract models, likely outcomes and how this would impact upon staff, student, and other operational experiences, with the aim to creating a market ready, and practical description of the current and future situation, the requirements of the institution, and not to over- or under-specify the solution so that it is achievable, practical, scalable, affordable, and technically deliverable. Given the speed of development, innovation, and novel nature of the supply sector, this dialogue has occurred with two major providers in the market to ensure that the package taken to market is successful in meeting our requirements. Dialogue commenced in approximately October 2025 and concluded December 2025 before publication of an intended Request For Proposal using the Competitive Flexible Procedure given the nature and speed of change in the AI Sector.
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
20 December 2025
Contracting authority
The University Of Kent
- UK Register of Learning Providers (UKPRN number): 10007150
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDYN-9654-JPQJ
The Registry,
Canterbury
CT2 7NZ
United Kingdom
Region: UKJ44 - East Kent
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government