Social Procurement is when an organisation uses their buying power to generate social and public value beyond the value of goods, services or works being purchased. This is referred to as broader outcomes which are secondary benefits aimed at addressing environmental, social, economic and cultural issues within our communities.

Māori businesses are not always well positioned to take on large social procurement opportunities and enterprises in growth stages often require additional support to tender for major Government contracts. Additionally, social procurement processes are often costly, lengthy and complex in nature making it difficult for many businesses to navigate.

Under Rule 17 of the Government Procurement Rules, agencies must consider how they can create opportunities for Māori businesses to take on social procurement opportunities. They must also consider how broader outcomes can be generated through procurement activity.

Toi Kai Rawa’s focus is to reduce and remove barriers for Māori businesses to engage in Government procurement opportunities to advance the prosperity of our people and communities here in the wider Bay of Plenty.