Last month, I attended Kent County Council’s Supplier Day at Detling Showground near Maidstone, with one clear goal in mind. I wanted to understand the opportunities available for local businesses, the funding and grant support that can help companies scale, and how procurement is changing in2026 and beyond.

It turned out to be one of those events where you leave with both insight and tangible opportunity. Alongside the conversations and learning, I also walked away with a DTV property referral, which says a lot about the power of simply being in the room and speaking to the right people.

The day itself was packed. The council described it as as ellout conference, with more than 700 tickets booked and over 300 businesses represented. There was a strong message throughout that Kent suppliers matter and that building stronger local supply chains supports better outcomes for residents.

The scale of opportunity is larger than most people realise

A major highlight was the introduction of KCC’s new Commercial Strategy for 2026 to 2028. The council mapped out how it plans to use £1.47bn of third party contracts across services ranging from adult social care and support for vulnerable residents, through to highways work such as keeping Kent’s roads moving. The fact that the largest share sits within adult social care is important, because it signals where the most consistent demand and spend is likely to be.

Procurement is shifting and preparedness is an advantage

The Procurement Act was a key topic. The clear takeaway is that tendering is evolving, and businesses that understand how the frameworks work, how bids are scored, and how to present compliance and value will have areal edge. If you only look at tendering when you need work, you are already late. The winners tend to be those who prepare early, build credibility, and learn the system.

Relationships still drive growth

For me, the biggest value is always the relationships. Meeting council members, buyers, and other business owners opens doors that do not exist online. It also gives you a clearer sense of what is needed and how to position your business with confidence.

I always enjoy events like this because they are one of the fastest ways to grow your business and your network, while staying close to real opportunities in the local economy.