WIREDGOV

In 2019/20, 27% of Dstl's external spend on science and technology (S&T) went to SMEs and its supply chain grew by 17%.

Dstl, the science inside UK defence and security, has exceeded its 2019/20 procurement spend target with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

In 2019 Dstl highlighted its commitment to working with a wide range of innovative SMEs. The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has set an ambitious target that 25% of its procurement spend will go to SMEs by 2022 . Dstl is delighted to announce a substantial increase in spend with SMEs in the past Financial Year (FY) 2019-20, from £72.6m to £86.1m, meaning that over 27% of its external spend on science and technology (S&T) went to SMEs, either directly or via a prime supplier.

Dstl is still actively recruiting SMEs to join its supply chain, which grew by 17% last FY, and will soon be launching its SME action plan to make it easier for SMEs to work with it.

Rob Solly, Executive Sponsor of Dstl’s SME Searchlight yesterday said:

“I’m delighted that SMEs are playing a larger role in our supply chain, bringing added agility and innovation to Dstl’s research. SME Searchlight is committed to continue this growth and we look forward to meeting new potential suppliers at Venturefest South in October.”

Vicki Shepherd, Head of Commercial Services Dstl, yesterday said:

“I am proud of the work of my commercial team, and the technical and project staff working alongside them, who have worked tirelessly to encourage new companies to join our supply chain, thus supporting MOD to move towards its target whilst allowing Dstl to deliver high impact S&T.”

Dstl remains keen to engage and continues to deliver critical services to its customers with the support of its supply chain. As part of its ongoing engagement Dstl is pleased to be a key partner of Venturefest South 2020 planned for the 2nd October at Hedge End, Southampton, at which it will be showcasing SME opportunities, especially in support of Land, Air and Maritime Systems S&T. Dstl will also be participating in Business Innovation South on 23rd September when businesses can discuss how to work with the defence community.

The figures are based on draft accounts (subject to audit). The figures for both years have been recalculated to include improved data, direct spend with SMEs and spend via framework contracts. They may be revised in the future to include other contract types.