App-based social learning platform, SwattUp, went from idea to reality with the help of the Keele Research and Innovation Support Programme (KRISP)*.

KRISP has been designed to support businesses that are thinking about, or are currently in the process of, developing a new product, process or service. By providing dedicated human resource and academic expertise, Keele delivers the expertise, focus and processes that will help businesses innovate and grow.

The SwappUp app acts as a ‘study companion’ and is a peer-to-peer social learning communication platform for students. Students can guide and swap notes for exams and assignments that may not be raised in classroom environments. Users who provide ‘good answers’, which are vetted by a team of experts, are rewarded with offers and vouchers.

Managing Director of SwattUp, Freddie Tilbrook, commented: “The idea for SwattUp had been around for a few years but we never had the capacity to properly research the value proposition. KRISP provided the perfect catalyst to get the product and new business off the ground, giving us space to develop the proposition based on current market feedback. The research produced from two Research, Development and Innovation advisor students has allowed for our new product to be developed, designed and implemented as well as providing contacts for the product to be tested in our target industries.

“I think SwattUp has got a big role to play in improving student learning experience and helping to improve the mental robustness of the next generation. We are bridging the gap between what is taught and the most effective way to be taught, capturing the right information.”

Currently, the platform has over 70 students signed up. In the next year, Freddie hopes to have more than 25,000 users on the app, as well as a team of experts and lecturers who regularly contribute and share information.

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent businesses can benefit from a range of specialist support and funding, more details of which are available through Keele University’s Business Gateway - 01782 733001 / business.gateway@keele.ac.uk.

*The KRISP project (ref: 32R16P00711) is part-funded from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) England Growth Programme 2014-2020