"Team Derby" Welcome Chancellor's Commitment to Region

Outside shot of the University of Derby's Kedleston Road site

26 November 2025

Today, when presenting the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, announced that she is pleased to be supporting Team Derby.

Team Derby represents a partnership of key consortia in the East Midlands region, committed to driving economic growth and prosperity for the region and the UK as a whole.

The Chancellor spoke specifically about her pride in our industrial heritage and the Government’s determination to build the industry of the future, so we buy, make and sell more here in Britain.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, said:

“We welcome today’s Budget announcement to support Team Derby – an ambitious initiative to drive growth in Derby as one of the UK’s key defence industry hubs. This investment demonstrates an alignment of ambition across industry, business, government and regional partners, all committed to securing long-term economic prosperity for the East Midlands and the UK.

“As a University for Industry we have established a powerful blueprint for higher education engagement with industry and government. From our work with Rolls-Royce, where we train 200 apprentices each year, to launching an Institute of Carbonomics in partnership with Intercontinental Exchange and McDonald’s UK&I, we are demonstrating how an industry-engaged university can deliver applied research, exceptional education and a talent pipeline that meets the evolving needs of employers and society.

“Working closely with our Team Derby partners, including Derby City Council and EMCCA, we look forward to helping shape and deliver these growth plans. This collaboration will not only enhance the prosperity of our region and its communities but also strengthen the UK’s competitive position in the global economy.”