High Performance Computing (HPC)
Framework Description
SUPC's High Performance Computing (HPC) framework lets universities buy research supercomputing capability: compute hardware, storage and interconnect, integration and benchmarking, and ongoing support and training. It is a single-lot agreement, closed to new applications but open to member institutions, and runs until 31 August 2027 with no extension option. As a single lot, it spans the whole stack, so appointed suppliers can be asked to quote from hardware through to training. This framework is used by SUPC, NWUPC and APUC.
Context & Use Case
Research computing teams use it when building or refreshing HPC clusters for modelling, simulation, data science and AI workloads. Purchases are large and technical, so buyers typically compare designs from several integrators against benchmark results and running costs before awarding, rather than ordering from a catalogue. Support and training also weigh heavily, since a cluster runs for years after installation.
Scope of Services
HPC compute hardware supply HPC storage and interconnect Integration and benchmarking services Associated support and training
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Suits HPC system vendors, specialist integrators and storage providers with a record of delivering research clusters. Applications for this framework are closed, so suppliers not already appointed must wait for the re-tender, likely around August 2027.
Buyer Benefits
Universities need clusters that hit performance targets within fixed grant budgets and power limits. This route gives them integrators already tested for technical capability, consistent contract terms for complex installations, and a way to compare competing system designs without a full open procurement for every refresh.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should focus on the mini-competitions for cluster refreshes over the remaining term. Others should check SUPC's framework page ahead of the 31 August 2027 end date, and prepare benchmarking data, energy efficiency figures and higher-education reference sites for the re-tender.
How Athena Can Help
HPC competitions turn on how well technical designs are explained to mixed panels of researchers and procurement staff. If you are on the framework, Athena's specialist bid team can turn your architecture into clear, scored answers, with competitor analysis and total-cost pricing that wins.
If you want a place next time, our framework registration service plans the re-tender submission in advance, and our bid/no-bid advice tests whether you can compete with established integrators.
