Engagement (Business to Business) CRM Systems
Framework Description
Engagement (Business to Business) CRM Systems is a single-lot APUC framework agreement for CRM systems and associated services that universities and colleges use to manage relationships with businesses and external partners. It is open to higher and further education institutions across the UK. The framework runs to 31 July 2027, with no extension option. This framework is used by APUC and SUPC.
Context & Use Case
Business engagement, knowledge exchange, careers and research partnership teams use it to track contacts with employers, industry partners and funders, and to manage enquiries, projects and events. It is separate from alumni and student CRM, though institutions often want systems that connect. Each requirement is open to all appointed suppliers on the single lot.
Scope of Services
CRM software for business-to-business engagement Implementation and integration with institutional systems Training and support CRM consultancy and best practice advice Ongoing maintenance and upgrades
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Suits CRM vendors and implementation partners with experience of university business engagement or similar partnership work. Applications for this framework are closed, so suppliers not already appointed cannot join until APUC re-tenders it, likely before 31 July 2027.
Buyer Benefits
Universities want one view of their relationships with each business partner, rather than scattered spreadsheets across departments. A framework open to UK higher and further education gives them suppliers already assessed on security and integration, and lets them buy without a full tender.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should approach business engagement and knowledge exchange teams across UK institutions before July 2027. Others should read the Public Contracts Scotland notice (APR475260), watch APUC's framework page and Public Contracts Scotland for the replacement, and prepare higher education case studies and integration evidence.
How Athena Can Help
CRM call-offs are often decided on demonstrations, integration plans and price. Athena's bid writing and editing team helps appointed suppliers respond to each institution's requirements with clear, scored evidence.
For vendors aiming for the next round, our framework submission support prepares the application and checks it against the criteria. Our bid strategy for public tenders also covers pricing licences and implementation so they win and stay profitable, alongside bid/no-bid advice on each call-off.
