Keele ranked among top universities in England for regional impact
Keele University has been recognised as one of the strongest performing universities in England for regional impact, according to a new assessment from a UK Government research body.
The latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) has been published by Research England, in which Keele has ranked among the best performing universities for contributing to local growth and regeneration, as well as its work with businesses.
The report highlights Keele’s excellence in working with companies of all sizes, having maintained a strong performance in key areas including local growth and regeneration, research partnerships, and collaboration with the public and third sectors.
Continued improvements in business engagement have contributed to Keele securing a position in the top 20% of English universities for overall knowledge exchange performance.
This recognition reinforces Keele’s ongoing role in supporting economic growth, innovation, and collaboration across the region.
Throughout the year Keele has demonstrated its commitment to working with businesses in a variety of ways, from an exciting new partnership with leading environmental consultancy RSK Group, to internationally renowned company Michelin moving its UK head office to Keele’s Science and Innovation Park.
Lecturers and students also frequently lend their expertise to help businesses stay competitive. The FLOURISH programme returned for a second phase this year, which has seen students and graduates helping local businesses and organisations to unlock their potential, innovate, and grow.
Keele also supports local businesses through its Moving Ahead programme, which has seen the University working with businesses to develop detailed, fundable proposals for intensive Research, Development and Innovation projects, as well as bringing them together for networking and collaboration.
Professor Kevin Shakesheff, Vice-Chancellor of Keele University, said: “Ever since its founding in 1949, Keele has always been rightly proud of its role in meeting the needs of society, and the University’s work with businesses to promote local growth and regeneration is just one aspect of this important civic role that we play. It’s pleasing to see this recognised by Research England in the latest KEF report, as well as giving us an important marker for future knowledge exchange activities.”
