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Growing Innovation and Business

Accelerating 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.

Working in partnership with leading employers and industry

We collaborate with leading organisations to drive innovation and growth across the region.

Learn more about our industry partnersLearn more about our industry partners

Building Strong Industry Connections

We believe that real-world experience is an essential part of academic success. Our partnerships with leading organisations across various sectors ensure our students gain valuable insights, hands-on opportunities, and access to the latest industry innovations.

Through collaboration with our industry partners, we bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, preparing our graduates to thrive in competitive global markets.

Here to offer tailored support and guidance

At the heart of our business engagement team are Allison Briers (left) and Mara Tomecsko (right). They bring expertise combined with a solution‑focused mindset and practical guidance to help businesses identify opportunities, overcome challenges and drive sustainable growth.

 

Alli and Mara

Connect with our Business Engagement Team

Unlock new opportunities for collaboration and business growth. Get in touch via our enquiry form or call us, and our team will help you identify the solutions that can drive your organisation forward.

 

 Enquiry form 0800 001 5500

Stay connected

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Our services

If you already know what service you want, choose from one of the following options.

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Funding

Find funding for your projects or see if you're eligible for our fully funded business support and training.

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Research and innovation

Access expertise and funding to help accelerate your company's R&D.

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Training and development

Invest in your people with our apprenticeships, short courses, funded training and bespoke programmes.

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Talent and recruitment

Work with our talented students and graduates through internships, placements, projects and mentoring.

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Facilities to hire

Hire our facilities - from co-working spaces and start-up units to conference rooms and specialist labs.

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Business events

Advance your knowledge and grow your network: these are our upcoming events for business people, most of which are free to attend. They include conferences and networking events, business advice works...

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Enterprise Support

Learn more about what enterprise support is available for your business

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Derby International Business School Consultancy Hub

Find out more about our student-led consultancy hub.

Derby + Industry: Your partner in talent, growth and innovation

At the University of Derby, industry engagement is at the heart of everything we do. We design courses around real business needs, embed employability into every degree, and create a strong pipeline of work-ready graduates.

Discover how businesses are already working with us to create and deliver real growth for their organisations. 

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View Derby + Industry: Your partner in talent, growth and innovation video transcript

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Help to Grow: Management

Want to take your business to the next level? Find out how our Help to Grow: Management Programme can unlock your organisation's full potential.

Find out moreFind out more
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Meyer Sound

For more than four years, we have collaborated with Meyer Sound, one of the world’s leading pioneers in professional audio, to deliver advanced, industry‑led education for the next generation of audio and live events professionals.

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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 2024/25 academic year.

Read the Annual Impact ReportRead the Annual Impact Report

Our latest Business news

Ocean King with University of Derby academics in the Cavendish Building
Derby-based family firm lands major UK innovation deal

A seafood business founded by a family who fled Vietnam on fishing boats and rebuilt their lives in the UK has secured major government-backed funding.

Posted: 9 April 2026
Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby sat next to Darren Leigh, CEO at Unipart signing partnership at a table
University of Derby strengthens its global industry network with new Unipart partnership

The University of Derby and Unipart have signed a partnership agreement, aimed at creating new opportunities for students, driving sustainable growth across the region and developing skills and innovation for sustainable supply chains.

Posted: 19 March 2026
A building belonging to the University of Derby can be seen in the sunshine
The Cavendish Building wins top award for design and impact

One of Derby’s newest buildings has been recognised for its impressive design and contribution to the city’s regeneration. 

Posted: 12 March 2026
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Business and education leaders join forces to tackle UK graduate skills demand

Business leaders from across the region came together to explore how universities can better align graduate skills with the evolving needs of the workforce now and in the future. 

Posted: 25 February 2026
Theo Paphitis talking to students during Q&A with Marvin Cooke
Students step into Dragons’ Den as Theo Paphitis launches Entrepreneurs’ Club

Budding entrepreneurs had the chance to pitch to Dragons’ Den star, Theo Paphitis, during a two-day event that brought high-profile guests from across the UK to Derby.

Posted: 16 February 2026

Our Business Services Charter

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