The G-Cloud framework explained for 2026
How G-Cloud 14 works, who can buy through it, and how suppliers get listed and chosen.
By the Telappliant team
G-Cloud is how UK public sector bodies buy cloud services without running a full tender for every purchase. If you sell to the public sector, or you are a public body procuring technology, understanding how the current framework works saves time and risk on both sides.
What G-Cloud is for
G-Cloud is a Crown Commercial Service framework agreement that lists pre-approved suppliers of cloud hosting, software and cloud support services on the Digital Marketplace. Public sector buyers can call off services directly from the framework rather than running an open procurement, which speeds up buying considerably for eligible services.
Who can use it
- Central government departments and their arm's-length bodies
- Local authorities, NHS bodies and other public sector organisations
- Education institutions and some other publicly funded bodies
The three lots
- Lot 1: Cloud Hosting - infrastructure and platform services
- Lot 2: Cloud Software - software as a service applications
- Lot 3: Cloud Support - implementation, migration and ongoing support services
How suppliers get listed
Suppliers apply during a periodic application window, submitting service definitions, pricing and compliance evidence including security, financial standing and social value commitments. Once accepted, services appear on the Digital Marketplace where buyers compare and select without a fresh tender.
What buyers should check before selecting a supplier
- Service definition documents match the actual requirement, not just the marketing description
- Data residency and security certifications are current, not assumed from a previous listing
- Exit and transition arrangements are clear before the contract starts, not negotiated after
- Pricing on the Marketplace reflects what will actually be invoiced
Where G-Cloud fits alongside other frameworks
G-Cloud sits within the wider family of Crown Commercial Service agreements. For services outside cloud, such as network connectivity or hardware, buyers typically use a different CCS framework, so check which agreement actually covers your requirement before assuming G-Cloud applies.
