Key Takeaways
G-Cloud 15 is the Government Commercial Agency’s new framework for buying cloud services, and it opened to public sector buyers in August 2026. If you run governance for a university or another public body, it offers a pre-approved route to cloud software. This guide explains what changed and how the Procurement Act 2023 fits in, then covers what to check before you buy. Here is where things stand as of October 2026.
What is G-Cloud 15 and how does it differ from G-Cloud 14?
G-Cloud 15 is a government framework that lets public sector buyers purchase cloud services from pre-approved suppliers. According to the Government Commercial Agency, it merges G-Cloud 14, its Lot 4 and Cloud Compute 2 into one agreement worth about £14 billion. G-Cloud 14 stays operational until 28 October 2026 and every call-off contract under it must be signed by then. Our guide to balancing cost and functionality in a board portal suits any public sector buyer.
Is the G-Cloud framework still a CCS framework?
G-Cloud is now run by the Government Commercial Agency, which absorbed the Crown Commercial Service in April 2026. Older references to a CCS framework therefore describe the same programme under its previous owner.
How does the Procurement Act 2023 shape G-Cloud 15?
As G-Cloud 15 is an open framework under the Procurement Act 2023, its supplier list is not fixed for the whole term. The Government Commercial Agency says it runs for four years from 6 August 2026 and it reopens after 18 months and again after 36 months. New suppliers can then apply to join, and existing suppliers can add and update their services.
Suppliers are now evaluated on price, quality and social value when they are appointed. The contract terms have changed too. A Crown Commercial Service supplier briefing from October 2025 says they now follow the Public Sector Contract, adapted for cloud services.
Can universities use G-Cloud 15 to buy governance software?
Education is among the sectors that can use G-Cloud 15 but universities should still check that they appear on the framework’s customer list. GOV.UK’s withdrawn buyers’ guide said eligible customers are named in each contract notice, and the G-Cloud 14 customer list included universities. Confirm the G-Cloud 15 list before you proceed.
If you are exploring a board portal for your university, our university governance page shows how Convene works for Council and Senate committees.
What should you check before buying governance software on G-Cloud 15?
Check that each service listing proves what you need. Suppliers are assessed on quality and price, and buyers can still test more deeply at call-off. Look for UK data storage and recognised certifications and ask how you can export your data at exit.
Is G-Cloud 15 the right route for your next board portal purchase?
G-Cloud 15 offers a route to cloud software when your requirement fits a published service and you can show why the supplier meets it. Start by confirming your eligibility, then compare services and decide whether you need a competition.
How can Convene support public sector and university buyers?
G-Cloud 15 gives public sector buyers a pre-approved way to buy cloud software, but the service still needs to fit how your board works. Visit our Digital Marketplace listing to explore our UK data storage, ISO/IEC 27001 certification, education pricing and a trial that can be extended to fit your procurement. Universities can also mirror their Council and Senate committee structure in our board portal. To see how Convene supports your next board cycle, book a demo today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a board portal?
A board portal is a secure online platform where boards and committees share papers and record decisions. Universities can use one to support Council and Senate meetings, with papers shared securely ahead of each meeting.
Can you buy a board portal through G-Cloud 15?
Yes, if you are eligible and a supplier has listed one. A board portal is software, so look in Lot 2b, the software as a service category. Check each listing against your security needs. Compare listings, then decide whether you need a competition.
What should universities look for in a board portal?
Look for a portal that mirrors your Council and Senate structure. Check where data is stored and which security certifications the supplier holds, such as ISO/IEC 27001. Ask whether education pricing is offered and how you can export your data if you leave.
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