Durham University recognised for spin-out best practice by Research England
Following an independent review of university spin-out companies, Research England has today (24 September) published its spin-out best practice and initial adoption list.
Durham University has been named among the Initial List of Adopting Institutions for spin-out best practices. This recognition comes as government assesses early implementation of the recommendations of a government-commissioned independent review aimed at boosting innovation and economic growth through the commercialisation of university research through the creation of new spin out businesses.
Our track record in innovation
Durham has sustained a purpose-driven commercialisation programme within our institution since the early 2000s and we’ve continued to build our institutional support for new business creation and economic growth since.
We welcomed the publication of the Independent Review of University Spin-Out Companies last year which provided analysis of the current support available to encourage business creation and growth through University research and intellectual property, and of the issues and challenges that the sector should address. Its eleven recommendations provided a framework for further supporting development and impact through commercialisation.
Durham’s inclusion in the adoption list acknowledges the University has substantively adopted the review’s best practices and continues to strengthen the support framework around commercialisation.
Regional collaboration driving growth
As an institution, we are committed to ongoing work to take opportunities to deliver newly created businesses into the regional North East economy, connecting these businesses with key growth sectors, and collaborating with partners to overcome barriers.
The Northern Accelerator partnership, involving Durham and other regional universities, has significantly boosted the number of spin-out businesses over the past six years. This collaboration has attracted increased investment and is now recognised as a leading-edge partnership in this area.
Our Vice-Chancellor spoke about the approach of the Northern Accelerator programme and the experience of Durham University in supporting spinouts at the All-Party Parliamentary University Group (APPUG) in the House of commons.
Find out more
- Durham University takes responsibility for the commercialisation of its research and knowledge seriously as a distinctive form of knowledge transfer from the Institution. It has a structured and systematic approach supported by an experienced team of professional staff. Find out more: Create Spin-Out Companies.
- Read our Spin-out Review Public Statement of Adoption.
- Learn more about The Northern Accelerator.
- Read more about our Vice-Chancellor speaking at the All-Party Parliamentary University Group.
- For more information on Durham University's research and innovation initiatives, visit Research and Business.
- The UKRI announcement is available here as well as a progress update on spin-outs and implementation of the independent review.