West Midlands Combined Authority has published a procurement opportunity for export support with an estimated value of £2,126,250. The submission deadline is 11 May 2026, giving eligible UK suppliers a limited window to prepare and submit bids through the official Find a Tender portal.

Published on 2026-04-09, this contract is open to suitably qualified suppliers across the United Kingdom. All businesses interested in bidding should review the full tender documentation and confirm they meet all eligibility requirements before the closing date.

Contract overview

The Export Support Programme aims to support high-growth businesses in the West Midlands (WM) manage their exporting activity more sustainably, to increase the pace of growth and its duration. It will do this through a range of potential interventions including, but not limited to, intensive one-to-one coaching, peer-to-peer support, and workshops. Initial contract period is for September 2026 - March 2027. x2 additional 12-month extension options for: 1st April 2027 - 31st March 2028 1st April 2028 - 31st March 2029

West Midlands Combined Authority is the contracting authority. The estimated value is £2,126,250 and the deadline is 11 May 2026. Download the full specification from the official portal before preparing a bid.

Is your business eligible?

This contract is most relevant to transport operators, logistics companies, courier services. Suppliers typically need to demonstrate experience delivering similar contracts, appropriate financial standing, and hold operator licences, vehicle compliance certificates.

Under the Procurement Act 2023, West Midlands Combined Authority must actively consider SME participation. Check whether this contract has been structured into lots.

• Proven track record in transport & logistics contracts of comparable scope
• Financial standing appropriate for a £2,126,250 contract
• Relevant certifications: operator licences, vehicle compliance certificates
• Capacity to mobilise within West Midlands Combined Authority’s required timeframe
• Ability to meet the 11 May 2026 submission deadline

How to submit a bid

• Step 1 — Access the notice: Visit Find a Tender at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032598-2026
• Step 2 — Register free: Create or log in to your supplier account
• Step 3 — Download documents: Read the full ITT before preparing your response
• Step 4 — Raise clarifications: Submit questions early — Q&A typically closes 1–2 weeks before the deadline
• Step 5 — Submit before 11 May 2026: Late submissions are not accepted

What the buyer will evaluate

West Midlands Combined Authority will assess all compliant bids against published criteria. Buyers typically apply a 60% quality and 40% price weighting. Under the Procurement Act 2023, social value is a mandatory evaluation criterion.

Writing a winning bid

• Lead with an executive summary addressing West Midlands Combined Authority’s objectives directly
• Provide two or more case studies with measurable outcomes from comparable contracts
• Include specific, costed social value commitments
• Price to win but ensure your margin covers full delivery
• Submit at least 24 hours before 11 May 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can SMEs bid for this contract?

Yes. The Procurement Act 2023 requires West Midlands Combined Authority to consider SME suitability and remove unnecessary barriers.

Is registration on the portal free?

Yes. Registering as a supplier on Find a Tender is completely free.

What happens if I miss the 11 May 2026 deadline?

Late submissions are not accepted. The deadline is absolute. Submit at least 24 hours early.

Where are the full tender documents?

All documents are on the official Find a Tender listing at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032598-2026.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify all details on the official procurement portal before submitting a bid. Kael Tripton is not affiliated with or endorsed by West Midlands Combined Authority or the UK government.