Bringing business university collaboration to life

Once more, it is time for the National Centre to start planning the flagship publication, the State of the Relationship. Focusing on the State of the Relationship between business, universities and policy-makers, this annual publication provides examples of outstanding partnerships from National Centre members and funders.

This past year, we have been delighted to see such strong examples of university-business partnerships from our members, particularly in the areas of graduate talent development, new pathways for skills, the cultivation of regional specialisms and the importance of place.

From PepsiCo supporting Britain’s talent in STEM and Canterbury Christ Church University equipping undergraduates with sector specific skills and experience, to Unite Students improving student resilience, our members work hard to ensure young people have the skills for the future.

With the devolution agenda– long established in Scotland, Wales, and N.I. – gathering pace across England, the UK Government is empowering cities and regions with the autonomy to set their own course, identify their priorities and build strategies to deliver economic success. The 2017 State of the Relationship case studies from our members and funders, demonstrate clearly the power of place-based thinking and programmes, from University of Surrey’s pioneering relationship with local industry and Plymouth University’s work with innovative SMEs, to Boeing’s investment in UK prosperity.

In our changing political and economic environment, more than ever, the UK needs vibrant and productive partnerships that develop graduates and create innovative products and processes; and our members are at the forefront of these collaborations. Every year, our State of the Relationship report showcases the value of business university partnerships and brings collaboration to life.

This year’s State of the Relationship will be our 5th anniversary edition, so we are welcoming submissions from our members, funders and partners reflecting on developments, evolutions and progress in university business collaboration within the past five years or looking forward and focusing on aspirations for new, innovative and developmental collaborations.

We’ve had a great initial response, but there is still time to be included. Submission guidelines can be found here, with previous editions available here.

Please do get in touch with SoR@ncub.co.uk if you have any questions to confirm your intention to submit.