PUBLIC PROCUREMENT NEWS

  

News

23 June 2014

New procurement guide helps public authorities unlock the benefits of innovation

To reduce the existing knowledge gap on public procurement of innovation (PPI), the EU-funded Public Procurement of Innovation Platform project has launched a comprehensive guide. The guide, which is available online and in print, offers explanations of procedures, definitions and answers to common questions, a selection of case studies, and useful resources for further reading. Particular emphasis is placed on the latest EU procurement directives, as well as ways in which procurement procedures can facilitate greater innovation.

“In a time of decreasing public budgets, innovation can facilitate the delivery of vital infrastructure and services. It is of the utmost importance, therefore, that public procurers can effectively engage in PPI. This guide will empower procurers to create a more efficient, sustainable and modern Europe.” said Antonio Tajani, Vice-President of the European Commission. The total value of public procurement in the EU is estimated at €2 trillion per year – or about 19 percent of European GDP.

The document will be of interest to procurers, policy makers, consultants, private companies and others who have a stake in successful PPI. "Europe has an enormous and overlooked opportunity to spur innovation using procurement. Moreover, public procurement of innovative products and services are vital for improving the quality and efficiency of public services at a time of budget constraints. Through this guide, public procurers will be equipped with the necessary knowledge to effectively engage in PPI.” said Mark Hidson, Deputy Regional Director of ICLEI Europe, and coordinator of the PPI Platform project.

To view the guide, click here.