University Alliance today (Thursday 9 April) launches its new Places, Partnerships, Nations & Regional Innovation.
This new network brings together senior leaders from across the University Alliance membership to accelerate collaboration, strengthen regional impact, and shape the national policy landscape around place‑based growth.
The Network will serve as a powerful platform for Alliance universities – institutions recognised for their deep regional roots and applied innovation strengths – to work collectively in response to the government’s increasing focus on industrial strategy, devolution, skills, and regional innovation.
Chaired by Professor Marc Griffiths, Pro‑Vice Chancellor for Regional Partnerships, Engagement & Innovation at UWE Bristol, the Network will support members to share best practice, build strategic partnerships, and develop joint initiatives that drive inclusive economic growth across the UK’s cities and regions.
Marc Griffiths, Pro‑Vice Chancellor for Regional Partnerships, Engagement & Innovation at UWE Bristol said:
“Alliance universities play a vital role in the prosperity and resilience of their regions. By creating this Network, we are strengthening our collective ability to lead on place‑based innovation, civic engagement and industrial collaboration. Working together, we can amplify our impact and help shape a thriving future for communities across the UK.”
Vanessa Wilson, Chief Executive of University Alliance, said:
“I am delighted we are launching this exciting new network at a critical moment for devolution, innovation investment and skills reform. Together, we will strengthen the collective voice of Alliance universities and support powerful collaborations that will drive place‑based growth across the UK.”
Through structured collaboration, the Network will:
- Share insight and expertise on regional partnership models, innovation ecosystems and civic engagement.
- Influence national policy through coordinated contributions to government consultations and policy development.
- Drive cross‑institution collaboration, including joint bids, shared workstreams, and multi‑partner programmes.
- Build a collective evidence base demonstrating the distinct impact of Alliance universities on local growth and innovation.
The Network will also work closely with other University Alliance groups and networks relating to Research and Innovation, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, and Skills and Employability to ensure a joined‑up approach to regional development and national influence.
The Network will meet three times a year, combining virtual and in‑person sessions hosted across Alliance institutions. Its first outputs will include collective policy responses, shared case studies, and the development of opportunities for joint external engagement.
UWE Bristol’s Professor Marc Griffiths will chair the network
