Universities and the Regional Economy
John Edwards, Chief Executive
Advantage West Midlands
July 2006
R&D in the West Midlands
West Midlands R&D spend less than 1.5% of GDP
In 2004, estimated R&D spend was £21 billion
By 2014 – spend must be £36 billion to reach targets
High Technology Corridors
High Technology Corridors - Longbridge
Premier Automotive R&D Centre
Advice for Business
Sources of Information for firms who demonstrate innovative activity
Clients or customers
Suppliers
W ithin your enterprise or enterprise group
Competitors
Professional and industry associates
Technical, industry or service standards
Scientific journals
Conferences, trade fairs, exhibitions
Consultants, commercial labs, private R&D Institutes
Government or public research institutes
Universities or other HEIs
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
% of firms
2001 survey
Source: DTI Innovation in the UK: Indicators and Insights
2005 survey
70
80
Innovation Technology Council
Began work in 2005
Five themes:
- Medical technologies
- Digital media
- Advance materials
- Transport technologies
- Energy
West Midlands Economic Strategy
Birmingham Science City
The Future for Universities and Regions
Future Relationships
Universities and the Regional Economy
Questions and Discussion