Back Back

University increasing economic contribution

11/07/2008
new figures have revealed today.
 
The Higher Education – Business and Community Interaction Survey shows universities and colleges’ contributions to the economy have grown to record levels.
 
Wolverhampton is the best new university in the Midlands in this area, making the biggest contribution to the region and showing an increase of more than 10% from the previous year.
 
Professor Gerald Bennett, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and External Development, said the University was committed to developing innovative initiatives to drive forward the region’s economy.
 
He said: "The University of Wolverhampton is one of the fastest growing institutions for community and business interaction.
 
"We are a major and growing provider of support to organisations. We have outstanding facilities and highly-skilled staff dedicated to making businesses in the West Midlands even more competitive."
 
He said the survey revealed the University was particularly strong for its consultancy work, as the number one provider for the businesses in the area.
 
The University of Wolverhampton also has several accolades and achievements that recognise its contribution to businesses.
 
These include several prestigious Lord Stafford Awards, recognising excellence in innovative work with businesses.
 
The University is top in the Midlands, and fourth nationally, for Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs). These allow companies to benefit from the skills of recent high-quality graduates and are shown to improve profitability and output.
 
Its Telford-based e-Innovation Centre has been singled out for praise for its crucial role in boosting the region’s economy.
 
The centre provides ‘launch pad’ units offering high quality business accommodation with hi-tech support from a team of experts. Other successful initiatives include the West Midlands Technology Network and West Midlands Centre for Constructing Excellence.

Further Information

For more information please contact Emma Kilvert in the press office on 01902 322003.
 

For more information please contact the Corporate Communications Team.

Share this release