New figures from the annual survey tracking how universities work with businesses and communities paint a mixed picture. Headline findings from the 2024–25 data: Knowledge exchange income - covering the full range of collaboration between universities, businesses and communities - reached £6.1 billion - broadly flat in real terms and representing a 1.4% decline following last year’s modest growth. University–business collaboration income - a narrower metric, which focuses

New figures from the Office for National Statistics send an important signal about the Government’s commitment to research and development as a driver of UK growth and prosperity. Public spending on R&D increased by 9.2% in real terms between 2023 and 2024. Spending has risen through agencies such as UK Research and Innovation, alongside increased investment in public R&D across Civil Service departments, which grew by more than £1 billion since 2023. A notable part of that i

NCUB's konfer platform helps universities find and develop meaningful partnerships with industry. One of the most effective ways we support that work is through our Collaboration Clinics - practical, interactive training sessions designed to help university teams create collaboration calls that genuinely resonate with businesses.

The UK clean energy sector is no longer just part of the climate conversation: it is central to the country’s economic strategy. In 2025, the Government unveiled its Modern Industrial Strategy, with clean energy chosen as one of eight priority sectors. The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan sets out the specific technologies and industries which the UK will focus on over the next ten years, and some (but not all) information on the policy levers the Government will pull to a

Strategy and funding driving the UK’s next tech frontier The UK’s digital and technology sector is one of the most dynamic engines of growth in the national economy, powering innovation from artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity to quantum technologies and advanced connectivity. Government strategy and research funding are playing a pivotal role in cultivating this ecosystem, not just as an academic pursuit, but as a commercial and societal force that can shape the

The House of Commons’ Business and Trade Committee has published its report on the Government’s small business strategy. It makes clear that while progress is being made on supporting SMEs, government ambition needs to go further. From tackling cashflow pressures and reforming business rates, to improving access to skills, innovation and R&D tax credits, the message is clear: small businesses need a more joined-up system that helps them grow, adopt new technologies and compe