Help from Academia

The majority of people have at some point studied at University, but did you know that Universities may be able to you help and support your business?

Our advice

Universities are a rich source of knowledge, technology and support and there are many opportunities that you can take advantage of including research, facilities and expertise. Some specific examples include:

• Knowledge Transfer Partnerships -  a UK-wide programme which places a strong graduate in your business to address a specific topic or project, leading to improved  competitiveness, productivity and performance 
• Collaborative Innovation Partnership (CIP) – a shorter duration verision of the KTP.
• Internships/Student Projects – the placement of a student in your vbusiness for a fixed period of time
• Apprenticeships

Universities tend to be split into several schools and departments across the city in which they are based, which can at times make it difficult to access the right individual academic.

If you are looking to contact a University within the North East, we would recommend contacting Universities for the North East (unis4ne) which is the regional association of the North East region's five universities (Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland, Teesside) and the Open University in the North. They will help you put in contact with the right school and individual to meet your business needs.

How can Design Network North help?

Design Network North have strong links with the Universities so please contact a member of the team, via our contact page for more information on what they have to offer and whether working with a University is the right approach for you to take.

Why don’t you watch the videos from one of our Rise & Design meetings on funding and support which talks about Support from Academia – Apprenticeships, KTP/CIP and Internships.

Follow the links under on the left hand side of the page for more information.