Durham SME Digital Engagement Project Extension

The Durham SME Digital Engagement Project, known as the Digital Drive Programme, is a successful programme of intensive support to businesses across County Durham to improve their competitiveness through take-up of digital technology. The primary objective of this contract is to deliver the second phase of this programme. The successful provider for phase 2 will be required to build on the success of phase 1, improve in less successful areas and meet the outputs required.

The expected start date for the proposed contract is 01 October 2020. The expected end date for the proposed contract is 30 June 2023.

The Council is currently in the process of submitting an ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) application for the funding to enable delivery of this Project.

At present the Council has submitted an application for £1,295,000 of funding to ensure the delivery of the scope and achievement of the strategic objectives. Should the Council be unsuccessful in obtaining ERDF funding the Project will not be commissioned. Progression of this procurement exercise and any award of this contract opportunity will be conditional on the Council confirming receipt of the funds from ERDF.

Confirmation of ERDF funding for the project is anticipated to be confirmed in April 2020