Higher Education Innovation Fund

 News 

BSU awarded over £300,000 for knowledge exchange

Bath Spa University has been awarded just over £300,000 for knowledge exchange, from Research England’s Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF). This funding is given to universities that the government considers to be particularly active in knowledge exchange. 

This announcement reflects BSU’s continued growth in knowledge exchange and follows the recognition in last month’s Knowledge Exchange Framework results, which placed BSU as one of the best mid-sized, teaching focused universities in a number of knowledge exchange areas. 

This funding will be used to support activity in key areas of knowledge exchange, including short courses, consultancy and contract research, student and alumni start-ups, and use of our facilities and equipment by other organisations.  

BSU’s strong performance in the Knowledge Exchange Framework, and the subsequent Higher Education Innovation Funding, underlines the university’s far-reaching, real-world impact that transforms lives locally and nationally. 

Professor Anna Walker, Director of Innovation and Knowledge Exchange, said:

"This is a phenomenal achievement that will be a step change for knowledge exchange at BSU."

Professor John Strachan, Pro Vice Chancellor Research and Enterprise, said:

“We are truly delighted to have been awarded HEIF funding. This is a significant achievement which reflects the University's long-standing commitment to knowledge exchange, driving innovation and collaborating with external partners.” 

He added:

“I am really grateful to the staff who have worked on these areas over recent years; Professor Anna Walker, the Centre for Knowledge Exchange and Innovation, Dr Louise Maythorne, Joe Fort and the Research Support Office. This funding will enable us to drive the impact of our knowledge exchange, deepening existing and fostering new connections between research, business, and society. It will also contribute to the economic and social well-being and prosperity of our region and beyond.”