Everything ICT has successfully operated a series of ICT frameworks awarded to us by E2BN over the past 13 years. The current iteration of this framework is now nearing its expiry, with the final date for new awards set for 19 July 2026. We have recently been awarded a new ICT Framework by HEART Academies Trust which has the same scope and coverage as the existing E2BN framework, and we will be transitioning to this new framework over the coming weeks.
From a customer’s viewpoint you will see very little difference in terms of the ways in which we operate: framework transitions are a routine part of our operations and any contracts awarded on or before the expiry date of the current framework will remain fully protected, supported, and delivered as agreed.
We also expect the new framework will be operational ahead of the expiry of the current E2BN framework, so there should be no disruption to your procurement activity, contracts, or ongoing support.
This document provides some further advice and guidance on the transition. If you would like advice tailored to your school or trust, or have any specific questions, our team is here to support you throughout the transition and beyond.
Framework Transition Date:
New contract awards under the current E2BN framework will cease from midnight on 19th July 2026. There is no phased wind-down and standard operations continue until this date. The new framework is anticipated to overlap, so business continuity is assured.
Award Validity:
Any contract (call-off award) made by a customer under the current framework on or before 19 July 2026 remains valid and enforceable for its full contractual term, regardless of contract duration (including any optional extensions) and despite the expiry of the framework itself. This is completely normal practice for frameworks let under the terms of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and is fully in line with UK procurement regulations (see Guidance on Framework Agreements).
Contract Management:
Everything ICT will continue to provide full contract management, supplier oversight, and customer support for all contracts awarded prior to the transition.
Contractual Certainty:
All contracts awarded under the current framework before its expiry date will continue to be valid for their full term. Any contracts awarded under the new framework will be governed by the terms of the new framework
Operational Continuity:
There will be no disruption to contract delivery, payments, or supplier relationships for pre-existing awards.
Procurement Planning:
With the new framework expected to overlap the current one, there will be continued opportunities for procurement both before and after the transition date, ensuring uninterrupted service.
Ongoing Support:
Everything ICT remains your point of contact for contract management and supplier performance throughout the contract lifecycle.
Contract Security & Continuity
Q: Are my contracts at risk after the framework transition?
No. All contracts awarded under the current framework on or before 19th July 2026 remain valid, secure, and supported for their full duration.
Q: Is early renewal or re-award required?
No. Contracts can run until their natural conclusion, regardless of contract length and including any optional extension periods that were allowed for in the original agreement.
Q: Can contract extensions be exercised post-expiry?
Yes. Not only can you take up any optional extensions that you may already have allowed for in the original contract, the current E2BN framework also provides for customers to make up to two further 1-year extensions for all contracts provided sufficient notice is given. Both forms of extension can be activated after the framework expiry date.
Q: Will support or service levels change?
No. Everything ICT maintains contract management and support for all valid awards, with no reduction in service quality or compliance oversight.
Compliance & Value for Money
Q: Are contracts still compliant and benchmarked for value?
Yes. Awards made before the transition remain compliant with procurement regulations and continue to be subject to value-for-money benchmarking.
Q: What happens if a supplier fails to deliver?
As now, your contract is with Everything ICT who will intervene and manage supplier performance issues on your behalf.
Strategic Procurement Planning
Q: How should MATs plan procurements in light of the transition?
MATs should review procurement pipelines and project timelines to identify any requirements that may necessitate contract awards before 19th July 2026. Strategic planning is advised to maximise value and continuity, but with the new framework expected to overlap, procurement opportunities will continue beyond the transition date. For any procurements currently in progress you will need to allow sufficient time at the end of the process to ensure you can sign off the award and place the order before the expiry date.
Q: What if a contract needs to extend beyond the framework expiry?
Multi-year contracts are fully supported and remain valid through to their natural end, even if this is several years after the framework transition.
Q: Is there a cutoff date for requesting the onboarding of new suppliers before the transition?
No. The framework transition is completely independent of our supplier application and approval process. Suppliers can continue to be nominated and onboarded before the transition date, subject to passing our evaluation process. For nominations, contact suppliers@everythingict.org.
Future Procurement Routes
Q: Will there be new frameworks or procurement options available?
Yes. The new HEART framework should be fully operational before the current E2BN framework expires, so there will be no disruption to your procurements, contracts, or support.
Q: Can new suppliers join after the transition date?
Yes. Once the new HEART framework is in place we will carry out the necessary work to transition our existing suppliers and any new suppliers who apply will, if approved, be able to supply via the new framework.
For further information or to discuss strategic procurement planning, please contact the Everything ICT team at info@everythingict.org or visit www.everythingict.org.
We recognise you may have questions about what the transition means for your organisation. To support you, you’ll find a range of downloadable guides and FAQs below for both customers and suppliers.
