University-business collaboration reinforced by Research England's four-year funding awarded to NCUB, boosting academic research efforts.
The National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) has received a four-year funding commitment from Research England, marking a significant step towards strengthening the links between research and industry in the UK.
Sam Laidlaw, Chair of NCUB, welcomed the renewed commitment from Research England and the support of university and business members. This timely funding renewal comes at a critical juncture, with the government seeking to stimulate productivity, strengthen innovation, and attract investment through closer links between higher education and industry.
Professor Dame Jessica Corner, Executive Chair of Research England, acknowledged NCUB's national importance in strengthening research-industry links. She leads efforts to promote collaboration for innovation, shape the UK's research and innovation system, and strengthen the links between research and industry.
The renewed investment will underpin NCUB's ambition to be a key player in ensuring the UK's research, innovation, and talent development are competitive and innovative. Over the next four years, NCUB's strategy will focus on making the UK a more attractive destination for business investment.
NCUB's strategy will build coordinated responses to global change across the skills, research, and innovation system. It will also aim to strengthen links between universities and companies to accelerate innovation. The unique model of NCUB combines government backing with membership contributions from both universities and businesses, empowering the organisation to partner with policymakers, share best practice, and deliver evidence for a more resilient and dynamic ecosystem.
The funding commitment from Research England will allow NCUB to continue providing insight, evidence, and practical tools to bridge the gap between academia and industry. This will help turn research into practical innovation that boosts economic growth and addresses long-term UK challenges.
The renewed partnerships highlight the indispensable role of collaboration within the UK's research and innovation system. By fostering closer links between higher education and industry, NCUB helps ensure research is translated into real-world innovations and long-term benefits for communities and the economy.
Professor Dame Jessica Corner's vision for Research England aligns perfectly with NCUB's mission. She aims to shape the UK's research and innovation system to stimulate economic growth, promote collaboration, and address global challenges. The renewed investment will help NCUB expand its role as a national convener and trusted voice on research, innovation, and talent development.
In conclusion, the renewed funding from Research England is a significant boost for NCUB and the UK's research and innovation sector. It underscores the government's commitment to fostering closer ties between higher education and industry, and NCUB's pivotal role in this endeavour.
