Free festival of events at UCLan promises to bring new skills and opportunities to businesses and community organisations

16 January 2024

Inaugural Research and Knowledge Exchange Festival will take place at Preston, Burnley and Westlakes Campuses

Businesses and the wider community can access free knowledge and skills activities at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)’s inaugural Research and Knowledge Exchange Festival.

From Monday 5 to Friday 9 February, UCLan’s Preston, Burnley and Westlakes Campuses will open their doors to offer free events designed to equip people with new skills that will bring social and economic benefits to the communities we live and work in.

Available to book online, the workshops and public lectures will cover a wide range of subjects. From of how businesses can tap into expertise at the University, to the benefits of social prescribing, to exploring the dark universe with the Euclid space telescope. There will also be opportunities to tour facilities and visit exhibitions.

"Ultimately the Festival serves as the perfect backdrop for networking, where people can share ideas, exchange experiences and build connections that can lead to exciting collaborations and partnerships."

Martin Blunt, Head of UCLan’s Enterprise and Engagement Unit

Martin Blunt, Head of UCLan’s Enterprise and Engagement Unit, said: “We’re very excited to invite our local communities to our first ever Research and Knowledge Exchange Festival.

“People will find out about the research we do at the University, connect with like-minded individuals and collaborate.

“Ultimately the Festival serves as the perfect backdrop for networking, where people can share ideas, exchange experiences and build connections that can lead to exciting collaborations and partnerships.”

One of the events will see UCLan Burnley team up with The Landmark business hub in the town for ‘Business over Breakfast’ on Thursday 8 February. Attendees can network, learn more about UCLan business support and degree apprenticeships and contribute to a discussion panel on current challenges in the business world.

"... we will drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the economic prosperity of Burnley."

Dharma Kovvuri, Dean of UCLan Burnley Campus

Dharma Kovvuri, Dean of UCLan Burnley Campus, said: "This collaborative effort reflects UCLan's deep commitment to the communities we serve. We believe that with the support of the Landmark community we can empower businesses with the knowledge and resources they need to excel. Together, we will drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the economic prosperity of Burnley."

All Research and Knowledge Exchange Festival activities are now available to book online via the UCLan website 

For more information, email UCLan's Business Development Team