ICT Network, Storage and Service Solutions Framework
Framework Description
Crescent Purchasing Consortium's ICT Network, Storage and Service Solutions framework combines CPC's earlier ICT Networking and Storage Solutions and Outsourced ICT frameworks into one four-lot route. It covers on-premise and cloud infrastructure, support, ICT consultancy and outsourced services. It runs from 1 September 2025 to 31 July 2027, with an option to extend by 24 months to 31 July 2029.
Context & Use Case
Schools, academies, further and higher education institutions and other public bodies use it to upgrade networks and wi-fi, buy storage or move to cloud and hybrid cloud, and outsource helpdesk, IT audit and managed services. CPC members award directly or by mini-competition through MultiQuote. The multi-purpose lot suits combined requirements.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: On Premise Solutions Lot 2: Cloud and Hybrid Cloud Solutions Lot 3: Multi-Purpose Lot Lot 4: Outsourced ICT Services, including helpdesk and IT audit
Lots
On Premise Solutions; Cloud and Hybrid Cloud Solutions; Multi-Purpose Lot; Outsourced ICT Services
Who Can Apply
Network integrators, storage and cloud providers, and managed service providers serving education. Places were filled at the original tender. Newcomers must wait for the re-tender, which CPC will advertise on Find a Tender and its contracting pipeline.
Buyer Benefits
Combining infrastructure and outsourced services in one framework lets institutions buy a network refresh and the support contract together. Cloud and hybrid lots support the move away from on-site servers, and the multi-purpose lot avoids splitting complex projects between suppliers.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should target trusts planning network refreshes and colleges reviewing outsourced IT. Others should watch for the re-tender, likely around 31 July 2027, or 2029 if extended. Gather vendor accreditations, Cyber Essentials Plus or ISO 27001 evidence, and education case studies.
How Athena Can Help
For appointed suppliers, MultiQuote competitions for network and managed service projects can be large. Athena's technical bid management turns solution design into scored answers, with competitor analysis and pricing.
For suppliers not yet appointed, we can map education and public sector ICT frameworks open before CPC re-tenders. Our IT framework applications service manages each application from start to submission. Our public sector ICT bidding advice covers lot choice for the re-tender.
