University improves in key areas in latest KEF results

The University of Huddersfield’s strong links with local businesses and its help for start-ups has seen it perform well in the latest set of Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) results.

The KEF measures how universities engage with society and the economy on a local, national and international level.

The University scored particularly well in the categories ‘Graduate start-ups’ and ‘Working with businesses’, where it was graded as having Very High Engagement, the highest score possible with KEF.

Amongst the graduate start-ups to have benefitted from help from the University’s Enterprise Team in the Research, Innovation and Knowledge Exchange (RIKE) are Reclaim Tentwear, who recycle discarded tents at festivals into waterproof ponchos and shorts, and Anvil Inc, a design and branding company who champion LGBTQ+, disabled and other marginalised communities.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) have also helped a diverse range of local businesses. Hebden Bridge’s Pennine Heritage organisation and medical tech company Paxman are just two to have been boosted by close links with staff and students at the University, with research and advice improving business and awareness locally and further afield.

The University also scored strongly in the fields of IP & commercialisation, and local growth and regeneration. 

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Bob Cryan CBE said, “I am delighted at this further strong endorsement for the University’s work with business, other organisations and the public, both locally and further afield. 

“Following the award of Times Higher Education Business School of the Year, and other recognition such as the Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rating for our work with apprenticeships, the KEF outcome helps confirm the important role the University plays in the economy and society.”