The funding will help NCUB expand its work to strengthen collaboration between universities and businesses, helping organisations to turn research into economic and societal benefits.

With Research England’s support, NCUB will put into action a new ‘forward plan’ strategy to help make the UK a more competitive destination for business investment, with three core aims for a UK that is more competitive, more collaborative and better prepared for the future.

In the last few years, the NCUB has expanded its digital collaboration platform Konfer, which now connects more than 6,000 businesses and universities through to nearly 2,000 live collaboration opportunities.

Professor Dame Jessica Corner, executive chair at Research England, said: “This funding recognises the vital role of the NCUB in strengthening the links between research and industry.

“By supporting collaboration at a national level, we can help turn research into practical innovation that boosts economic growth and addresses the UK’s long-term challenges underpinned by our great university system.” 

Sam Laidlaw, chair of the NCUB, added: “We deeply appreciate this renewed investment from Research England, alongside the steadfast support of our university and business members.

“Together, these partnerships highlight the indispensable role of collaboration as a driving force within the UK’s research and innovation system. This combined backing empowers us to partner with policymakers, share best practice and deliver the evidence needed to build a more resilient and dynamic ecosystem that benefits communities across the nation.”