Aston University has once again demonstrated its leadership in knowledge exchange, achieving strong results in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) for the fifth consecutive year. Being placed in the highest band for working with business and contribution to local growth, positions the University in the top 20% in the UK.
Knowledge exchange brings together academic teams, users of research, wider groups and communities to share ideas, evidence and expertise. Conducted by Research England, KEF is designed to inform and assess knowledge exchange activities of higher education institutions and how they benefit students, society and the broader economy.
Aston has retained its position as one of the top performers in the ‘Working with Business’ category, underlining its reputation for building strong partnerships with industry. The University has also achieved the top rating for its contributions to ‘Local Growth and Regeneration,’ in recognition of its impactful work in supporting the economic and social development of the region. This work is being further boosted by the development of the Birmingham Innovation Precinct, a collaborative venture with Bruntwood SciTech and Birmingham City Council, which aims to create an innovation ecosystem of global significance, boosting digital and health technologies, fostering partnerships between academia, industry and entrepreneurs.
Aston’s latest KEF achievements underscore its role as a key driver of innovation and economic growth. The University also maintains strong ratings in areas such as IP commercialisation, research income with larger businesses, co-authorship with non-academic partners, and the success of its spin-out companies and graduate start-ups. Initiatives such as the Centre for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, Midland Mindforge – a groundbreaking pilot investment fund to accelerate innovation in health and deep technologies – and Aston Business Hub which will soon open its doors to start-ups and scale-ups, are key to fostering innovation and driving regional prosperity.
Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said:
"Knowledge exchange is a cornerstone of Aston University’s 2030 strategy, which focuses on creating meaningful impact through collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship. These results demonstrate how we are delivering on that vision, driving economic and social transformation in our region and beyond. By building partnerships with industry and investing in initiatives like the Birmingham Innovation Precinct and the Aston Business Hub, we are creating a thriving innovation ecosystem that benefits all."
Aston University’s consistent performance in the KEF reinforces its position as a leading Knowledge Transfer Partnership provider. It is one of the most active in the country, ranking second in terms of volume and companies engaging with Aston’s award-winning KTP team see an average return on investment of 1,743%.
Professor Mike Caine, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Research and Enterprise, said:
“Our sustained commitment to knowledge exchange across the whole University community enables us to translate research into tangible outcomes for businesses and communities. We contribute to meaningful impact that drives inclusive innovation and economic growth. Our outstanding KEF results reflect the strength of our partnerships and the benefits they deliver, particularly for SMEs and the regional economy."
