University demonstrates impact across key areas in latest KEF results

The University of Huddersfield has continued to perform well in the latest set of Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) results, achieving significant engagement across a range of metrics, including Local growth and regeneration, Working with businesses, and CPD and graduate start-ups.

The framework benchmarks universities’ community and business engagement across a range of activities that focus on how higher education institutions contribute to economic growth and societal benefit across England.

Success in engaging with businesses has been supported by a range of University activity, including access to academic expertise through consultancy and the use of its facilities to support innovation and R&D within industry.

Other contributing factors include the University’s strong Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) portfolio, which has also helped a diverse range of local businesses, including firms such as Bodyease, Puffin Packaging and Macs Trucks.

The University’s work with these companies puts innovation and growth at the heart of a mutually beneficial relationship built on an industrial challenge mapped to research strengths, including advanced manufacturing, technical textiles, engineering and AI.

The University’s National Health Innovation Campus (NHIC), working in partnership with the NHS, as well as health and industry organisations, has been a key contributor to success in support for local growth and regeneration. The Campus currently comprises two buildings that bring together teaching, research, community healthcare services and business innovation facilities. With further development planned for the site, it is expected to continue attracting investment, creating jobs and supporting innovation-led growth in the region.

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Bob Cryan CBE commented: “I am delighted to see the University continue to perform strongly in the Knowledge Exchange Framework. Recognition for our contribution to local growth and regeneration, engagement with businesses and support for graduate enterprise demonstrates the breadth of our impact and the important role the University plays in supporting innovation, opportunity and economic growth. These results reflect the dedication of colleagues across the institution and the strength of our partnerships, both within our region and beyond.”

Now in its sixth year, KEF was designed by Research England to shine a light on how different universities collaborate with businesses, communities, and public services. It enables institutions to track their progress, benchmark performance, and make smarter decisions about how they share knowledge and innovation with the world.

It translates complex data into clear performance insights across seven key areas, making it easier for universities, government and the public to see where impact is happening and where it can grow.

The key areas it tracks are Research partnerships; Working with business; Working with the public and third sector; CPD and graduate start-ups; Local growth and regeneration; IP and commercialisation; and Public and community engagement.

KEF results have been published annually since its first iteration in 2021.