On Monday 16 October, Universities UK published new research which found that UK universities generate a knock-on impact of nearly £100bn (£95bn) for the UK economy and support almost a million (940,000) jobs throughout the UK.

Responding to the research, Dr Mark Bacon, Director of Research, Innovation and Engagement at Keele University, said:

“We welcome this new research which proves how universities positively impact on the economy and local job markets.

“At Keele University, we know the higher education sector is vital to the UK economy. We are passionate about utilising our world-leading research, drawing on the expertise of our skilled professionals and academics, to create a competitive advantage for local organisations by improving their products, services and businesses processes, ultimately leading to increased prosperity for the area.

“This is why earlier this year we launched the New Keele Deal, which brings to life our commitment to invest in the growth of the local economy by supporting and helping to advance our local businesses.

“By working in partnership with Staffordshire County Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership and University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, we will deliver a unique deal designed to stimulate growth of the knowledge-based economy in the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire region. 700 jobs are set to be created and over 1,000 businesses supported as a result.”

For more information about the Keele Deal and how everyone can benefit, please visit www.keele.ac.uk/newkeeledeal.