Growing Innovation and Business

Accelerating small-business growth, breaking down barriers and creating unrivalled opportunities for entrepreneurs to innovate and thrive. Here at the University of Derby, we are closing the gap between research and impact to make a real difference.

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Partnering for Impact

We are right at the heart of the issues and challenges that matter - to our city, our region, to business, industry and our communities and society in general. Investing in our future, partnering with sector-leading businesses to drive innovation and create a collaborative environment where research has real impact and graduate talent can flourish.

Connect with our Business Engagement Team

To find out more about how we can work with you, contact our business engagement team today.

0800 001 5500 Enquiry form

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Bespoke programme benefits Holcim

The Global RMX (Ready Mix) Concrete Management Programme has engaged with Holcim at every level to ensure that the needs of the organisation align with the participants' learning experience, creating a programme that has real world application.

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High Peak Skills for Business

Developed in partnership with High Peak Borough Council, the programme supports businesses within the High Peak in developing digital, green, and employability skills.

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Regional Impact

We are supporting growth and prosperity across our region by working with our industry and academic partners to champion employee wellbeing, nurture new enterprise and provide industry-specific expertise. This is establishing our region's profile and reputation as a centre for business and innovation both nationally and internationally.

We have supported businesses at the beginning of their journey, such as Goldbox, as well as established businesses, including Sure Screen and E.ON.

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Annual Impact Report

Over the past year, the University of Derby has celebrated excellent achievements. Read our Annual Impact Report to explore the highlights of our 2022/23 academic year.

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Our latest Business news

Civic Awards 2024 winners on stage

The first University of Derby Civic Awards, aimed at recognising and celebrating the significant positive impact that individuals and organisations have made in the community, was held on Thursday, 4 July.

University of Derby The Future is You

More than £1.2 million has been awarded by the Office for Students to the University of Derby to support the development and expansion of degree apprenticeships, addressing skills gaps in key shortage areas within Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

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A groundbreaking partnership aimed at revolutionising professional development and career advancement opportunities has been launched by the University of Derby and In Professional Development.

University of Derby's Kedleston Road campus with signage that reads 'The Future is You'

Five new degree apprenticeships to educate the workforce of the future and boost healthcare and social work are being launched in Derby. The apprenticeships will be delivered by the University of Derby after it was awarded more than £300,000 funding by the Office for Students. 

Councillor Tricia Gilby and Professor Kathryn Mitchell

The University of Derby and Chesterfield Borough Council have signed a new strategic partnership agreement to establish a closer working relationship and recognise shared ambitions between the two organisations. 

Our Business Services Charter

Read our Business Services Charter, which sets out the quality of service you can expect from us.