Creating Innovative Regions: The role of universities in local growth and productivity

Our latest report aims to bust a myth – that the main contribution of universities to innovation is through the commercialisation of their research. Universities contribute so much more, particularly in their regions. Institutions like those in the Alliance are rooted in their regional economies. Many grew out of the needs of the industrial revolution and have been a stable presence ever since. They have longstanding networks of graduates in many different occupations and public sector bodies. They align their research activities to regional strengths. They are hubs for innovation activity and are well placed to take on strategic and leadership roles to ensure the economic prosperity and productivity of their regions.