Thornton & Lowe in Bolton benefits from new AI software upgrade

Bid writing specialist Thornton & Lowe has revamped its Tender Library platform by introducing AI-powered search and generative drafting tools, thanks to support from a £20,000 innovation grant from GM Business Growth Hub’s Innovation Service.

It is a move expected to cut delivery times by 15 per cent, save 525 working days annually, and generate more than £300,000 in additional annual income.

Dave Thornton, founder and chief executive of Thornton & Lowe, said: “With the latest in AI search and content technology, we are helping clients respond faster, write better and stay firmly in control.

“There is nothing like this on the market and we are incredibly grateful to GM Business Growth Hub for helping us move forward at pace.”

Dave Thornton, Founder and CEO of Thornton & Lowe. (Image: Supplied)

The software overhaul is the latest step in a long-term collaboration with the Growth Hub, which has provided the company with more than a decade of innovation advice, commercialisation expertise, workforce development support, and grant funding.

The upgraded Tender Library features AI-powered search functions, improved data analysis, generative drafting capabilities, and enhanced data protection.

Thornton & Lowe adopted the upgraded AI-driven platform in March 2025 and has since reported significant gains in capacity.

The company has also grown its team by 27 employees and has begun offering the enhanced Tender Library as a commercial product to clients.

It has also invested in high-powered capital equipment to support the new system.

Yvonne Grady, head of innovation at the GM Business Growth Hub, said: “Thornton & Lowe is a powerful example of how long-term partnership and a commitment to innovation can support a company’s growth over many years.

“Their decision to strengthen Tender Library with AI and enhanced data protection shows clear leadership in a rapidly changing market.

“Having worked with the team since their early development, it is inspiring to see how they continue to evolve their offer and embrace new opportunities.

“This latest project demonstrates how targeted innovation support can unlock capacity, improve competitiveness and create new commercial pathways.

“We are proud to have supported their journey.”