Knowledge exchange

Research

We establish collaborative partnerships with our stakeholders in industry and the wider public. Our reputation for applied business research, entrepreneurship, innovation and public engagement drives economic and societal impact.

Knowledge exchange is at the heart of our strategic plan

We are a Northern Powerhouse partner, working alongside others to strengthen the North West economy. Entrepreneurship is embedded in our curricula. We carry out world-leading research that has local and global impact, leading to commercial opportunities where appropriate. We value partnerships with external stakeholders, collaborating on opportunities arising in the public and private sectors. We provide workforce skills through our Degree Apprenticeship and continuing professional development (CPD) provision, and we offer expert consultancy and a range of services to help business to grow.

Our strong achievements in the Government's Knowledge Exchange Framework, highlight the diverse ways in which we share our knowledge, expertise and skills with stakeholders.

Find out about our latest KEF results

What is the Knowledge Exchange Framework?

  • Developed by Research England

    The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) has been developed by Research England. The framework provides information on knowledge exchange delivered and facilitated by Higher Education Providers in England.

  • A driver of knowledge exchange across England

    The KEF allows universities to better understand their own performance in knowledge exchange. KEF drives improvements across English universities, helping people access our world-class knowledge.

  • We have strength and depth in knowledge exchange

    Our KEF results show strengths in diverse knowledge exchange activities. We rank in the top 20% for three out of seven of the eight main categories.

Business support

Collaborative partnerships can play a crucial role in helping businesses to thrive. We can assess the needs of your business and help you develop practical, real-world, solutions.

Intellectual property

We support businesses to create commercial opportunities to licence and develop intellectual property (IP). We offer a range of services relating to intellectual property, that can help businesses innovate and grow.

Intellectual property information

Support for SMEs

Our award-winning Centre for SME and Enterprise Development epitomises our commitment to being an outstanding, sector-leading entrepreneurial institution which seeks to foster a more productive and innovative SME sector in Lancashire.

Our SME support

CPD provision

We offer an exciting range of CPD courses available across a range of specialist areas, all in small bite-sized chunks of education. Our CPD short courses are available across a range of specialist areas. Some courses are accredited, and others are standalone programmes. These focus on specific learning outcomes or developing your skillset.

Explore our CPD provision

Discover our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment

Browse our wide range of facilities and equipment which facilitate learning, teaching and the sharing of knowledge across our community.

Explore our facilities

Degree Apprenticeships

Hiring an apprentice or upskilling an employee can help enhance your workforce. We are the number one choice for apprenticeships and professional development. Discover the benefits to your business, how to take on an apprentice and how we can support you.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are a three-way collaboration. They are a government-funded programme through Innovate UK and help businesses to improve competitiveness, productivity and performance.

Find out more about knowledge transfer partnerships

Working locally and regionally

As a major local employer and education provider, the University plays a pivotal role in addressing productivity, skills and wealth gaps in Lancashire and Cumbria. Local growth and regeneration are at the heart of our Strategic Plan. We have an inclusive higher education provision which helps to accelerate socioeconomic growth in the region, reacting and adapting to local needs and challenges.

Research and Knowledge Exchange Service

Public engagement

From local events to global projects, engaging with communities is a core part of our work. We're committed to being an open and accessible university with a civic purpose.

Discover our public engagement

Knowledge Exchange Concordat (KEC)

The University has signed up to the Knowledge Exchange Concordat (KEC) which demonstrates our commitment to growth and improved knowledge exchange. It supports the partnership working with external businesses and organisations that are integral to success.

More information on knowledge exchange
Knowledge Exchange FrameworkKnowledge Exchange Concordat

Where next?

Support for your business

Read more about Support for your business

Research

We have a growing and vibrant community of innovative academics who nurture our postgraduate students and early-career researchers, producing high quality international and world-leading research that addresses today’s challenges.

Read more about Research

Upcoming events

We host a wide variety of events open to the public. These include performances and exhibitions, alumni, sport and outdoor events, public lectures, festivals, events at the Harris Museum and more…

Read more about Upcoming events