Big Science refers to large-scale scientific research facilities intended to provide solutions to some of the world’s most challenging questions. The UK government contributes funds to a number of international Big Science facilities (CERN, ESO, ILL, ESRF, ESS, FAIR, SKAO, European XFEL), with UK membership and access managed by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). STFC engages UK industry in the tender opportunities from those facilities and aims to increase return on investment via contracts won by UK industry.

The total annual procurement budget for the eight international science facilities is valued at ca. £500M, providing diverse opportunities for thousands of suppliers across hundreds of industries. Requirements range from off-the-shelf goods, to services, to highly innovative products. A variety of contract value levels also makes bidding accessible to SMEs who can meet the specifications and procurement criteria.

What's on offer

We encourage North West SMEs offering UK-origin products and services to join DIT NW and the STFC Business Opportunities Team at the internationally-recognised Daresbury Laboratory where you will:

•            Learn about the eight international science facilities and what they do

•            Hear from the STFC UK Industrial Liaison Officers for the facilities about procurement, example tenders and tips for bidding

•            Listen to local business experiences of engagement, bidding for and winning contracts at these international facilities

•            Understand the support available to NW businesses from DIT and the STFC Business Opportunities Team to assist your own successful pursuit of relevant sales opportunities to international science facilities

In the afternoon there will be an opportunity for a limited number of delegates to book:

•            15 minute 1-2-1 appointments with the UK Industrial Liaison Officers and DIT

•            Tour of Daresbury Laboratory