Final Evaluation of Business Support Services in Wales

Tender description

This is a final evaluation of Business Support Services that have been supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). This includes the Business Wales and Superfast Broadband Exploitation (SFBE) operations. Collectively, the Business Wales programme of operations provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ to support entrepreneurs and enable SME businesses in Wales to grow and create jobs and present a key part of the Welsh Government’s programme for business in Wales. The Welsh Government (and WEFO) has made substantial investments to extend Next Generation Broadband infrastructure or ‘superfast connectivity’ through the Superfast Cymru programme. The overall aim of the work specified here is to provide a process and impact evaluation of the ERDF elements within Business Wales and Superfast Broadband Exploitation WEFO Operations. Two reports will be produced; at the interim and final stages of the contract. The final report only will be published. The evaluation will assess the success of the Programme against its stated outputs and delivery objectives, and measure outcomes and impact. The evaluation will be required to analyse the progress of the key monitoring requirements for this operation in terms of the key performance indicators. The evaluation is anticipated to be conducted between February 2022 and September 2023. This timescale will enable assessment of the Programme delivery, WEFO output targets, and may expect to capture observable impacts as a result of Project interventions. The specification sets out what is required, provides background information on the Final Evaluation of Business Support Services in Wales and suggestions on method, but bidders are encouraged to propose alternative methods for carrying out this work within the available budget and timescale.