UK SBS FWRECR16088HEFCE - Expert Analysis of HEFCE Knowledge Exchange Institutional Strategies

UKSBS Research & Evaluation Framework Lot 4

Government and HEFCE knowledge exchange policy and priorities

HEFCE uses the term 'knowledge exchange' (KE) as shorthand for the multiple interactions between HEIs and businesses, public services, charities and communities to create societal and economic benefit. These interactions include joint research and development projects, consultancy, training and setting up new companies.

The Government set out its priorities for KE in the Higher Education White Paper and the HEFCE 2016-17 grant letter. The government is committed to KE for the long-term. The government set out its expectation in the productivity plan that Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) should make an even stronger contribution to the UK economy and society. Sustainable rebalanced growth and tackling the productivity challenge are key over-arching objectives for government for KE.

Government has also set out its wish for HEFCE to continue to pursue its robust outcome-based funding approach to Higher Education Innovation Funding (HEIF), linked with submission and acceptance of long-term institutional strategies for KE - the subject of this tender.