Levelling Up: How can universities get involved in economic development, skills and innovation under a local devolution model?

28 Apr 2022 - Online via Zoom

Thursday 28^th April 2022, 2-3pm

"HE institutions have a vital part to play in supporting regional economies, as significant local employers and through their role as anchor institutions supporting regional collaboration” (page 197 of the Levelling Up the United Kingdom White Paper).

Following on from our ‘How can economic development professionals work most effectively with Higher Education Institutions to drive growth?’ webinar in February 2021, we will take an in-depth look at what the recently-published White Paper means in terms of implications and opportunities for universities supporting economic development. We will specifically explore the role of universities as anchor institutions in local economic development, as providers of skills, knowledge, research, technology and innovation, and their strategic civic missions to improve the economy and the communities they serve. However, whilst there is lots of evidence for the power of universities in local areas in the Levelling Up White Paper, some sector observers have expressed disappointment not to see a greater role and responsibility for the sector articulated as part of the agenda.

Nevertheless, the White Paper’s vision of system change is about putting power in local hands and embedding it in strong civic institutions. Discussion will focus on universities’ involvement in economic development, skills and innovation under a devolution model, what this means for building collaborations and partnerships and with local government, business and communities, and where institutions can play the most powerful role in delivering effective place-based economic strategy going forward.

Confirmed speakers: 

Professor Kiran Trehan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Partnerships and Engagement at the University of York

Andy Westwood, Professor of Government Practice and Vice Dean for Social Responsibility in the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Manchester

Dr Joanne Leek, Economic Development Manager at Liverpool City Combined Authority, and IED Director

David Marlow, Managing Director, Third Life Economics.

To register for this free event in advance, please click on this link.