UK Procurement Glossary
G-Cloud
Crown Commercial Service's flagship framework for cloud services, used by UK public sector to procure software, hosting and cloud-support services.
Definition
G-Cloud is Crown Commercial Service's framework for cloud-based services, structured into three lots: Cloud Hosting (Lot 1), Cloud Software (Lot 2) and Cloud Support (Lot 3). UK public sector buyers use G-Cloud to procure SaaS, IaaS, PaaS and supporting professional services. Each iteration runs for typically 2 years, with new iterations launched periodically (G-Cloud 14 is current as of writing; G-Cloud 15 expected next).
G-Cloud is one of the most accessible UK frameworks for SME tech suppliers — no minimum financial thresholds, light application process, and ongoing buyer access via the Crown Marketplace once admitted.
How this affects your bid
G-Cloud applications are largely about your service descriptions and pricing — there is no formal pitch. Invest heavily in crisp, scannable service descriptions that match buyer search behaviour on the Crown Marketplace.
Common questions about g-cloud
How long does G-Cloud last?
Each G-Cloud iteration typically runs for 2 years, sometimes with a one-year extension. New iterations launch every 1-2 years.
Is G-Cloud open to new suppliers anytime?
No — applications open only during the announced application window for each new G-Cloud iteration. Suppliers must apply in that window or wait for the next iteration.
Related terms
Crown Commercial Service (CCS)
The UK government's central commercial body, running frameworks and aggregated procurem…
Framework Agreement
A pre-agreed contract between one or more buyers and a panel of suppliers, used as the …
Digital Outcomes and Specialists (DOS)
Crown Commercial Service's framework for digital project delivery — teams, specialists …
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