Scotland’s economic prospects could be significantly enhanced through stronger collaboration between its universities and business.
The second Growing Value Scotland Task Force report published today outlines the views of business leaders and representatives of six key sectors of the Scottish economy.The report, The Innovation Edge: Business Innovation and University Collaboration in Scotland, found that Scotland needs a step change increase in the scale of the interfaces between universities and business. Drawing on interviews with executives in key industries in Scotland, including creative and digital, oil and gas, life sciences, food and drink, tourism and financial services, the report has identified a range of cross-sector themes that could lead to the research and development capability of the Scottish economy being enhanced.
In a final report to be published in May, the Task Force will set out recommendations to deliver this change.
Dr Jamie Coleman, MD CodeBase said:
“This timely report comes at a critical moment in Scottish economic decision making. Universities must take a modern view of commercialisation and actively encourage collaboration with the wider business and startup community.
“There is tremendous potential to be unlocked by building closer connections and it is incumbent on the businesses across all sectors to engage with academia. The National Centre has done an outstanding job of brokering these valuable relationships and should have a key role moving this agenda forwards.”
Dr David Docherty, Growing Value Scotland Task Force Executive member and Chief Executive for the National Centre for Universities and Business said:
“This report identifies key areas to propel Scotland to deliver successful business innovation. With some of the best talent and research in the UK coming from our internationally renowned universities, the importance of maximising opportunity through innovation has never been greater.”
The concluding Growing Value Scotland Task Force will make its recommendations on 25 May.
ENDS
About the National Centre for Universities and Business
The National Centre develops, supports and promotes world-class collaboration between universities and business across the UK. A National Centre Task Force brings together leaders from universities, government and business to focus on a particular economic sector or issue. We work together to identify problems and examine issues in depth.
About the Growing Value Scotland Task Force
Co-chaired by Rob Woodward (Chief Executive, STV Group plc) and Professor Sir Ian Diamond (Principal & Vice Chancellor, University of Aberdeen), the Task Force convenes leading experts and leaders from across industry and academia to identify and prioritise actions specific to Scotland that will enhance the value of publicly-funded research and increase university-business collaboration.
For further information
Shivaun Meehan
Senior Manager, Communications and Engagements
National Centre for Universities and Business
T: +44 (0)20 7383 8193 E: Shivaun.meehan@ncub.co.uk
James Lenney
Digital Communications Officer
National Centre for Universities and Business
T: +44 (0)20 7383 8185 E: James.lenney@ncub.co.uk
National Centre for Universities and Business
Share this article
