ESRC and the Department for International Development (DFID) are seeking to secure an Evidence and Policy Group (EPG) in support of their ambition to maximise the impact of the research they jointly fund on policy and practice relevant to developing countries. The contract will be for an initial duration of three years with the option for further extension for a period of one year. The annual budget for the EPG is expected to be in the region of £200,000-£350,000: this includes both strategic and delivery activities, and all associated cost.

The EPG will design and be responsible for the delivery of a strategic programme of work to support and enhance the uptake and impact on policy and practice of research funded through the DFID-ESRC Growth Research Programme (DEGRP). The new EPG will build on the work already completed over the first four years of the DEGRP by the existing contract holders for this function.

A Prior Information Notice (PIN) has been issued to inform, engage with and assess interest from potential bidders about the proposed opportunity.

A bidders conference is being held on 16 November 2016 in London to address queries potential suppliers may have and to take on board their suggestions and views prior to the opening of the intended procurement.