Connecting UK businesses with Big Science procurement and contract opportunities
Whether you supply specialist engineering or everyday services, the ILO links UK companies with international research facilities.
Our impact
How we work
- Share opportunities: We provide early notice of tender opportunities from international Big Science facilities.
- Guide the process: Our experts help businesses navigate requirements and prepare strong submissions.
- Connect suppliers: We introduce UK companies to facility specialists and procurement teams, opening doors to new markets.
- Track and showcase UK impact: Working with Big Science not only brings economic returns but also drives innovation, builds capability, and boosts UK companies’ global competitiveness.
Connecting UK businesses across all sectors
Big Science facilities procure across a huge range of goods and services. Whether you provide advanced instrumentation or everyday support, the UK ILO can connect you to opportunities across many sectors.
Hardware
Software
Training
Property and facilities
Civil engineering
Insurance
HR and business services
Specialist manufacturing
Electronics
How to win Big Science tenders
Quick wins to help UK businesses engage successfully with Big Science facilities before registering:
- Register early: Opportunities move fast; getting on the supplier list gives you a head start.
- Tailor your bid: Match your capabilities to the specific needs of the facility.
- Build partnerships: Consortia bids can improve your chances of success.
- Keep paperwork ready: Facilities require standard documentation; having it prepared saves time.
FAQs
Who can supply to Big Science facilities?
All UK companies can supply to Big Science facilities. For support from the ILO, UK companies must:
- For supplies, a company must manufacture in the UK, or the products must undergo their last major transformation (including components and sub-assemblies) within the UK.
- For services, a company must be established in the UK.
Do I need to register separately with each facility?
You only need to register with the UK ILO once for us to start identifying suitable opportunities. However, most facilities still require suppliers to register directly on their own procurement portals to bid, and in some cases to access full tender documentation. We’ll guide you through which registrations are needed and when.
What documents do I need to bid?
Each facility has different rules, so read the documentation carefully! If anything is unclear, contact the ILO team or the facility procurement team, who will be happy to help.
What support does ILO provide once I register?
Registering on the ILO database means that you will receive tenders from all the Big Science facilities relevant to the sectors you selected, as well as our monthly newsletter. The ILO team can also offer tailored support, introducing you to technical and procurement specialists and provided advice on bids.
Access opportunities at world-class facilities
Unlock tenders, connect with Big Science facilities, and expand your capabilities.
