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ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ secures increased Higher Education Innovation Funding for third consecutive year

Monday, 17 August, 2026

ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ has been successful in securing (HEIF) from Research England (RE) for the 2026/27 academic year, receiving a total of £385,248. 

This is the third consecutive year that ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ has been awarded HEIF funding, with this year’s award representing the maximum 10% increase from the £347,070 received in 2025/26. 

The increase reflects strong growth across a number of Knowledge Exchange activities supported by the University’s Centre for Innovation and Knowledge Exchange and Research Support Office. This includes significant growth in Contract Research, sustained high levels of income from Regeneration and IP, successful delivery of Skills Bootcamps and other initiatives, continued strong income through business use of Specialist Facilities and Equipment, and significant CPD contracts. 

The funding recognises the University’s continued engagement with businesses and contribution to the local economy in an increasingly competitive environment. It also reflects the strategic focus and generous, creative and collaborative work taking place across numerous teams at ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿. 

The University will share further details in September about how the funding will be reinvested in Knowledge Exchange activity across BSU, subject to the usual guidance and reporting requirements from Research England. The investment will support the University’s continued growth and impact through external engagement with businesses, communities and other partners. 

Hannah Whiting, Director of the Centre for Innovation and Knowledge Exchange, said: 

“We are delighted to have secured HEIF funding for a third consecutive year, with this year’s award representing a significant increase on the previous year. This is a fantastic endorsement of the growing strength and impact of Knowledge Exchange activity across ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿. 

"The increase reflects the excellent work taking place across the University, from Contract Research and CPD to Skills Bootcamps, Specialist Facilities and Equipment, and our work in Regeneration and IP. It is a real testament to the creativity, collaboration and commitment of colleagues across BSU, and to the strong relationships we continue to build with businesses and partners. 

"We look forward to investing this funding back into our Knowledge Exchange activity and building further momentum in the year ahead.” 

Dr Martin Davies, Interim Head of Knowledge Exchange, said: 

“This year’s HEIF award is a significant achievement and reflects the continued growth and diversification of our Knowledge Exchange activity.  

This funding will provide an important opportunity to build on that success and support further activity that creates value for our staff, students, external partners and the wider economy.”